Istanbul offers an exquisite culinary journey through time with its best Ottoman cuisine restaurants in Istanbul. From the lavish meals once served in imperial palaces to the carefully preserved recipes passed down generations, experiencing authentic Ottoman cuisine in Istanbul is a must for any food enthusiast. Whether you’re searching for fine dining Ottoman restaurants in Istanbul or hidden gems offering traditional flavors, our Istanbul gourmet Ottoman cuisine guide will help you discover the top spots to indulge in these timeless dishes.
A Brief History of Ottoman Cuisine
Ottoman cuisine is a rich fusion of flavors influenced by the diverse regions under the Ottoman Empire. Combining elements from Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Balkans, it presents a blend of aromatic spices, succulent meats, and delicate pastries. Meals were often grand affairs, reflecting the empire’s opulence and diversity. Today, you can enjoy this legacy at some of the top Ottoman restaurants in Istanbul, where chefs continue to honor the traditions of the sultans.
Key features of Ottoman cuisine include:
- Rich stews and slow-cooked meats like Hünkar Beğendi (Sultan’s Delight)
- Elaborate rice dishes flavored with saffron and dried fruits
- Traditional mezes with a mix of seasonal vegetables and yogurt
- Delicate pastries such as Baklava and Şekerpare
Must-Try Ottoman Dishes in Istanbul
Exploring famous Ottoman restaurants in Istanbul is incomplete without tasting these iconic dishes:
- Hünkar Beğendi – Slow-cooked lamb served over creamy roasted eggplant purée.
- Testi Kebab – A clay pot-cooked kebab dish infused with spices and vegetables.
- İmam Bayıldı – A flavorful stuffed eggplant dish filled with onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.
- Mutancana – A traditional lamb stew with apricots, almonds, and honey.
- Zerde – A fragrant saffron and rose-flavored rice pudding.
- Baklava – The classic Ottoman dessert made of layers of filo pastry, filled with nuts and sweetened with syrup.
Where to Find the Best Historical Ottoman Restaurants
Some of the best historical restaurants in Istanbul preserve the legacy of Ottoman flavors while offering visitors a cultural experience. These establishments are located in key areas such as:
- Sultanahmet – The heart of Istanbul’s historical district, home to many traditional restaurants.
- Beyoglu – A vibrant area offering a mix of old and new, where you can find authentic eateries.
- Besiktas – Known for upscale dining options blending history with modern culinary techniques.
Our Picks of the Best Ottoman Cuisine Restaurants in Istanbul
If you’re wondering where to eat Ottoman food in Istanbul, look no further. Here are some of the most famous and highly-rated establishments offering an unforgettable Ottoman dining experience in Istanbul:
Deraliye Restaurant – in Sultanahmet
Located in the heart of historic Sultanahmet, Deraliye Restaurant offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulence of the Ottoman Empire. The restaurant’s grand décor, adorned with intricate patterns and rich colors, transports you to an era of sultans and lavish feasts. Its menu features authentic Ottoman palace cuisine, carefully curated from centuries-old recipes that were once served in the imperial courts of Topkapi Palace.
Signature dishes include goose, lamb, and duck kebabs, each served with spiced rice and cooked in a traditional tandoori oven, ensuring an authentic taste and texture. The restaurant also boasts a selection of rich stews, filled with aromatic spices, dried fruits, and nuts, which were characteristic of Ottoman royal feasts.
For those looking to complement their meal with a touch of sweetness, Deraliye’s desserts, such as saffron rice pudding and baklava, provide the perfect ending to a rich and flavorful journey.
Our Experience: As we stepped into Deraliye, we were captivated by the regal ambiance. The lamb kebab, infused with aromatic spices and slow-cooked to perfection, melted in our mouths. The attentive service and detailed explanations of each dish added to the immersive experience. If you’re in Sultanahmet, this spot is a must for an authentic Ottoman dining experience.
- Address: Divanyolu Caddesi, Alemdar Mahallesi, Ticarethane Sokak No:10, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Matbah Restaurant – in Sultanahmet
€ · Turkish, Country cooking
Located just steps away from the magnificent Hagia Sophia, Matbah Restaurant offers a refined dining experience that takes guests on a culinary journey through the Ottoman era. Featuring a stunning blend of history and gastronomy, Matbah prides itself on preparing recipes once served to the sultans, carefully researched from historical Ottoman archives.
The restaurant’s ambiance is a blend of classical elegance and modern comfort, with both indoor and outdoor seating options in their beautifully manicured summer and winter gardens. Their menu highlights dishes such as Balli Gemici Böreği, a crispy filo pastry filled with seven varieties of Turkish cheese, drizzled with juniper honey—a recipe dating back to the 15th century.
Each dish is thoughtfully prepared with authentic ingredients, sourced from local markets to retain the integrity of Ottoman cuisine. A meal here is not just about taste but also a cultural experience.
Our Experience: Dining at Matbah felt like stepping back in time. We tried the sultan’s lamb stew, which was incredibly tender, paired with fragrant rice pilaf. The historical touch of each dish, complete with its origins and stories, made our experience both delicious and educational. The charming atmosphere and impeccable service make it an excellent choice for history and food lovers alike.
- Address: Caferiye Sokak No:6/1, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Topaz Restaurant – in Gumussuyu, Taksim, Beyoglu
Perched above the bustling streets of Taksim, Topaz Restaurant combines modern Mediterranean and Ottoman flavors with a touch of elegance and sophistication. The venue offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and Dolmabahçe Palace, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a refined culinary experience.
The menu features a harmonious fusion of flavors, with standout dishes such as butter-soft grilled octopus with sweet potato puree, and the linguine with fresh seafood, offering a taste of the Mediterranean with a distinctly Turkish flair.
Adding to the experience is the restaurant’s sophisticated ambiance—soft lighting, plush seating, and a well-curated selection of wines and cocktails that enhance the flavors of each dish. The restaurant also offers personalized spice levels, catering to individual preferences.
Our Experience: We enjoyed a luxurious evening at Topaz, savoring the grilled octopus, which was cooked to perfection, and the sea bass fillet, which was delicate and flavorful. The service was impeccable, and the view of the shimmering Bosphorus added an unforgettable touch to our dining experience. For those seeking a refined yet culturally rich meal, Topaz is a must-visit.
- Address: Ömer Avni Mahallesi, İnönü Caddesi, No:50, Beyoğlu, Istanbul
- Web: www.topazistanbul.com
Tuğra Restaurant – in Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel, Besiktas
Set within the historic Çırağan Palace Kempinski, Tuğra Restaurant offers an unparalleled Ottoman fine dining experience. Overlooking the Bosphorus, Tuğra combines grandeur with culinary excellence, providing a feast that embodies the richness of Ottoman heritage.
From the moment you enter, the setting exudes luxury—ornate chandeliers, hand-painted ceilings, and marble pillars create an ambiance fit for royalty. The menu, inspired by centuries-old recipes, features exquisite dishes such as Testi Kebabı (lamb slow-cooked in a clay pot) and Hünkar Beğendi, a smoky eggplant purée topped with tender braised lamb.
Each dish is presented with artistic flair, showcasing the precision and passion of the chefs who meticulously recreate the flavors of the past. Tuğra also boasts an extensive wine and cocktail list, complementing the richness of the dishes perfectly.
Our Experience: Dining at Tuğra felt like stepping into a royal banquet. We were particularly impressed by the Testi Kebabı, which was theatrically opened at our table, releasing the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked lamb. The Kunefe dessert, oozing with warm cheese and drenched in syrup, was a decadent conclusion to our meal. The impeccable service, combined with breathtaking views, made for an unforgettable evening.
- Address: Çırağan Caddesi No:32, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Pandeli Restaurant – in Eminonu
Located above the bustling Egyptian Bazaar, Pandeli Restaurant is a cherished Istanbul institution that has been serving traditional Turkish cuisine since the early 1900s. Famous for its striking blue-tiled interior, this historic eatery has hosted countless celebrities, politicians, and food enthusiasts over the decades, all drawn to its rich flavors and old-world charm.
The menu celebrates Turkish culinary heritage with dishes like grilled aubergine salad, wood-fired spicy chicken, and the house specialty roast lamb with fluffy rice, prepared using time-honored techniques. Each dish highlights the essence of Anatolian flavors, offering guests an authentic taste of Turkey.
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch after shopping at the bazaar or indulging in a hearty dinner, Pandeli’s ambiance and heritage create a truly unique dining experience.
Our Experience: Pandeli’s atmosphere is steeped in history, with its vintage decor and stunning views of the Spice Bazaar creating a nostalgic dining experience. We particularly enjoyed the wood-fired chicken, which was tender and bursting with flavor, complemented by perfectly cooked rice. The friendly service and the restaurant’s timeless charm made our visit an absolute delight. If you’re looking for a spot to savor authentic Turkish flavors in a historic setting, Pandeli is the place to be.
- Address: Rüstempaşa Mahallesi, Balık Pazarı Kapısı Sokağı No:1/2, Mısır Çarşısı İçi, Eminönü/Fatih, Istanbul
Hünkar Lokantası – Nişantaşı, Şişli
Established in 1950 in Fatih and relocated to Nişantaşı in 2000, Hünkar Lokantası stands as a beacon of authentic Ottoman home-cooked dishes, preserving the rich flavors of the empire with a touch of modern refinement. Under the management of Feridun Ügümü and Galip Ügümü, Hünkar has maintained its culinary heritage for decades, continually offering a diverse range of time-honored dishes.
The menu features classic Ottoman comfort food such as Hünkar Beğendi, a rich, smoky eggplant purée topped with slow-cooked lamb, and Kuzu Kapama, a tender lamb stew infused with aromatic spices. Seasonal delicacies and hearty stews are always available, catering to both adventurous foodies and those seeking a nostalgic taste of tradition.
In 2007, Hünkar Lokantası gained international recognition when it was listed among the “World’s 100 Best Restaurants” by the prestigious Restaurant Magazine, a testament to its enduring excellence in Turkish cuisine.
Our Experience: Stepping into Hünkar Lokantası felt like being welcomed into an Ottoman home. The Hünkar Beğendi, with its velvety texture and perfectly seasoned lamb, stood out as a favorite. The warm and inviting ambiance, coupled with attentive service, made our dining experience unforgettable. Whether you’re after a traditional lunch or an intimate dinner, Hünkar is a must-visit for lovers of authentic Ottoman flavors.
Asitane Restaurant – Edirnekapı, Fatih
Perched near the historic Chora Church, Asitane Restaurant is a living testament to the grandeur of Ottoman palace cuisine, reviving forgotten recipes from the imperial archives. Since its inception in 1991, Asitane has meticulously researched and recreated over 200 historic recipes, drawing inspiration from original palace documents, old Ottoman dictionaries, and feast records dating back to the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent.
The menu offers a unique culinary experience with specialties like Mutancana, a dish made with lamb, prunes, almonds, and honey, and Ballı Mahmudiye, a sweet and savory chicken dish prepared with dried fruits and almonds. Seasonal menus showcase both winter and summer delicacies, ensuring diners experience the diverse palate of Ottoman royalty.
Each dish is crafted with precision, aiming to deliver the authentic tastes once savored by sultans and their courts. The restaurant’s elegant decor, featuring soft lighting and Ottoman motifs, further enhances the immersive dining experience.
Our Experience: Dining at Asitane is like stepping into history. The Mutancana, with its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, transported us to an era of grand feasts and lavish banquets. The staff provided insights into the historical significance of each dish, adding a cultural dimension to our meal. For those eager to experience true Ottoman dining, Asitane is an unmissable gem.
Culinary Experiences and Food Tours
Immersing yourself in Istanbul’s culinary culture goes beyond dining at restaurants—it’s about engaging with the city’s food traditions through hands-on experiences and guided tours. From cooking classes to market explorations, these activities offer a deeper connection to Istanbul’s vibrant food scene.
Top Culinary Experiences
- Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare authentic Turkish cuisine with expert chefs in an interactive setting. Popular classes include:
- Market Tours: Explore Istanbul’s bustling food markets to discover fresh ingredients and local flavors:
- Kadıköy Market: Located on the Asian side, it’s perfect for sampling cheeses, olives, and spices.
- Spice Bazaar: A historic marketplace filled with vibrant spices, teas, and sweets.
- Street Food Adventures: Join guided tours that take you through Istanbul’s best street food spots. Sample simit, kokoreç, and midye dolma while learning about the cultural significance of these dishes.
- Wine and Meze Tastings: For a more sophisticated experience, indulge in a wine and meze pairing session. Local experts guide you through the perfect combinations of Turkish wines and traditional small plates.
- Baklava and Dessert Workshops: Uncover the secrets of Turkish desserts by participating in a baklava-making class or sampling sessions at renowned sweet shops like Karaköy Güllüoğlu.
Recommended Food Tours
- Kadıköy Food Tour: Dive into the flavors of the Asian side with a knowledgeable guide.
- Old City Culinary Tour: Explore Sultanahmet’s food heritage, including Ottoman cuisine and street food.
- Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner: Combine sightseeing with a gourmet meal on a boat along the Bosphorus.