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Istanbul restaurants
Istanbul's standard of cuisine might not live up to the highest international mark, despite a recent influx of chefs from abroad; even promising exports seem to wither drastically on the journey here. However, menus at most Istanbul restaurants are ambitious and worldly, and atmosphere helps fill the gap: Visitors are often taken aback by the profusion of stylish restaurants with stunning views, such as Ulus 29, Leb-i derya, and 360 Istanbul. But it's not all milk and honey: Traditional meyhanes (taverns) like those located along Nevizade Sokak in Beyoğlu offer a chance to enjoy a variety of Turkish meze, fish, and raki (the local anise-flavored firewater), often to the accompaniment of live music. The historic quarter of Sultanahmet has less to offer in terms of quality dining, though we've listed a few spots worth checking out. And for scenic views and more peaceful surroundings farther up the Bosphorus, head to Ortaköy's Banyan. In Istanbul, the price of the food does not always reflect the quality: look for cheap eats at spots like Çiya, Kurkan Balık Evi, and Zubeyir Ocabaşı.
A number that has become synonymous with trendoid Istanbul, 360 is the city's quintessential fly spot: A restaurant complete with summer terrace, bar, a strong...more
A refreshing change from the mass of touristy establishments in the neighborhood, this is one place that you'll find brimming with Turks and visitors alike on...more
This carnivore's dream is located in a somewhat obscure location north of the city center, just off the motorway in Etiler (a bit inland from the Bosphorus-side...more
Ask any Istanbullu about the best place to get fresh fish in the city, and he or she will likely direct you to the Galata Bridge, where a small market on the...more
A chic, glassless greenhouse stands in the middle of this hip but unpretentious rooftop place, with a bar counter lined with slatted white wood chairs round the...more
It's a fair trek up to the Bosphorus village of Emirgan, but a worthwhile journey on many counts. A 30-minute (traffic-contingent) cab ride from the city...more
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