Discover the best places to eat, drink and restaurants in Besiktas district of Istanbul, from authentic Turkish to International and Mediterranean cuisine, cheap eats to steak, fish, kebab restaurants, breakfast, brunch to snacks with local advice, plus the best vegetarian and vegan options.
The vibrant district of Besiktas, known for its iconic landmarks such as Dolmabahçe Palace and the bustling marketplace, is also a renowned food haven. Situated on the European side of Istanbul, Besiktas, with its charming neighborhoods like Ortakoy, Bebek, Kurucesme, Arnavutkoy, Etiler, and Ulus, offers a diverse palette of culinary delights that leave every food enthusiast thoroughly satisfied.
A Culinary Tour through Besiktas
The neighborhood of Besiktas is like a gastronomic tour through Istanbul’s vibrant food culture, thanks to its mix of traditional Turkish taverns, modern fusion eateries, and trendy coffee shops. The district perfectly blends the flavors of Istanbul’s diverse culinary history with innovative techniques, creating an enticing feast for the senses.
Besiktas Centre, for instance, is a hub for street food lovers. Here, you’ll find vendors selling everything from succulent kebabs and balık ekmek (fish sandwiches) to mussels stuffed with spiced rice. The marketplace is also famous for its breakfast venues, offering an array of Turkish delicacies such as menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs) and simit (Turkish bagel).
Ortakoy, known for its iconic mosque by the Bosphorus, is a gastronome’s delight with its blend of stylish cafes, seafood restaurants, and the famous kumpir stalls serving baked potatoes with an array of fillings. The chic neighborhood of Bebek, with its waterside promenade, hosts upmarket eateries and pastry shops offering delicious treats, including the much-loved Turkish dessert, baklava.
Besiktas – An Oasis for Food Lovers
Venture a little further into the district, and you’ll find Kurucesme and Arnavutkoy, popular for their waterfront fish restaurants and trendy bars offering breath-taking views of the Bosphorus. Etiler is another noteworthy neighborhood, known for its high-end restaurants, patisseries, and brunch spots that cater to the city’s cosmopolitan crowd.
Ulus, on the other hand, is home to several upscale dining establishments where you can indulge in a gourmet meal while soaking in panoramic views of the city. From stylish sushi bars to the traditional Turkish grills, the culinary offerings in Ulus are as captivating as its vistas.
Besiktas district, with its blend of traditional and modern, casual and sophisticated, perfectly embodies Istanbul’s dynamic food culture. Each neighborhood, each street, and each corner of this district presents a unique culinary story, waiting to be discovered and savored. Dive into the flavors of Besiktas and experience the rich tapestry of tastes that define this captivating corner of Istanbul.
Best Restaurants, Places Eat & Drink in Besiktas
Here’s our pick of the best cafes & restaurants in Besiktas, Istanbul.
Alaf Restaurant
€€€ · Turkish, Modern Cuisine
Alaf Restaurant, nestled in the charming Arnavutkoy district of Besiktas, is a vibrant culinary destination that dances on the tastebuds of those who dare to explore. Guided by the creative vision of Chef Deniz, Alaf’s cuisine is a colourful tapestry of culinary influences that range from the nomadic Yörük heritage to the fertile plains of Anatolia. One of the finest Michelin starred restaurants in Istanbul, Besiktas.
The heart of Alaf’s kitchen is the wood-fired oven, a symbol of culinary tradition where authenticity is masterfully intertwined with modern cooking techniques. Each plate becomes a diverse journey of discovery, an explosion of flavours set against the backdrop of a bustling rooftop cocktail bar. Alaf is indeed a memorable celebration of taste, ingenuity, and Istanbul’s effervescent charm.
Address: Arnavutköy, Kuruçeşme Caddesi No:19, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Web: alafkurucesme.com
Aman da Bravo Restaurant
€€ · Modern Cuisine, Contemporary
Stepping into Aman da Bravo in the fashionable district of Bebek is like being whisked away to the trendy terraces of the Côte d’Azur. Here, the pulsating city vibe gives way to a relaxed, upscale atmosphere, a sanctuary where the hustle and bustle of Istanbul seem a world away. A fine one of the best restaurants in Besiktas.
Aman da Bravo showcases the finest of modern ‘bistronomy’, where premium, locally-sourced ingredients take center stage. In the hands of their talented chefs, these ingredients transform into dishes bursting with robust flavours that seamlessly marry simplicity with sophistication. Enhanced by international touches, every meal at Aman da Bravo is a hip, culinary experience that beautifully reflects the rhythm of modern Istanbul.
Address: Bebek Mahallesi, Bebeköy Sokak No:5, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
29 Restaurant
€€ · Turkish, Modern Cuisine
With its stunning Bosphorus views, 29 entices not just your palate but also your eyes. The restaurant is famous for its fine dining experience, boasting a menu that blends traditional and international cuisine. At 29, the thrill of fine dining takes a new form, where the vivacious spirit of traditional Turkish cuisine is delicately modernised without compromising its authenticity. A superb one of the best restaurants in Besiktas.
Every dish served here is an homage to the rich flavours and generous spices of the Turkish culinary tradition, elegantly enhanced by contemporary touches. A visit to 29 Restaurant is more than a meal – it’s a journey through the culinary artistry of Istanbul in a setting as spectacular as the food.
Address: Ulus Mahallesi, Ahmet Adnan Saygun Caddesi, Yol Sokak No:71/1, Besiktas, Istanbul
Web: 29.com.tr
AQUA Restaurant
€€€€ · Seafood
AQUA, housed within the Four Seasons Hotel at the Bosphorus, combines sophistication with a beautiful waterfront setting. Located right on the waterfront, it offers stunning views of the bustling strait and iconic Bosphorus Bridge, creating a romantic ambience that seems to melt into the waterscape. One of the best seafood restaurants in Istanbul, Besiktas.
AQUA is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, with a menu that highlights the freshest catch in sushi, Mediterranean classics, modern Asian creations, and succulent grill dishes. Experience subtly spiced, aromatic fare drenched in rich, buttery sauces; a testament to their commitment to premium produce and generous cuisine.
Address: Yıldız, Çırağan Caddesi No:28, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Banyan Restaurant
€€ · Asian Contemporary
Banyan brings a taste of Asia to Istanbul with its fusion menu. Its stunning rooftop location offers panoramic views of the city, making it a favorite spot for both local and international food enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of Besiktas, the restaurant offers sweeping views of the majestic Ortaköy Mosque and the bustling Bosphorus through its floor-to-ceiling windows. One of the best Asian restaurants in Istanbul, Besiktas.
As you soak in the scene, the resident DJ spins hypnotic beats, adding a lively rhythm to your dining experience. But the pièce de résistance is the food: modern Asian creations with a fiery twist, where fish takes centre stage. Banyan is more than a restaurant; it’s a multisensory journey where cuisine meets cool.
Address: Yıldız Muallim Naci Caddesi & Salhane Sokak No:3, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Web: banyanrestaurant.com
Feriye Restaurant
€€€€ · Mediterranean Cuisine
Housed in a refurbished Feriye Palace by the Bosphorus, Feriye restaurant provides both a gastronomic and historical experience. As the night descends, the view of the illuminated Ortaköy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge casts a magical glow, perfectly paired with a finely crafted cocktail.
The food at Feriye is a celebration of subtlety and freshness, an honest homage to classic dishes with a dash of spicy sophistication. With its delicate balance of chic and relaxed ambiance and attentive service, Feriye Restaurant promises a memorable culinary excursion.
Address: Yıldız Mahallesi Çırağan Caddesi No:44, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Web: feriye.com
Inari Omakase Restaurant
€€€€ · Japanese Contemporary
Nestled in the heart of Kuruçeşme, Inari Omakase Restaurant offers a culinary journey that traverses from Japan to California. Specializing in sushi and Japanese cuisine, the restaurant delivers a memorable Omakase experience.
This designer restaurant, defined by its sleek contemporary style, brings together the finest of Japanese cuisine – from exquisite nigiri and sashimi to mouthwatering tempura and teppanyaki. It carries an added twist of hip Californian influences that adds to its unique allure. A popular spot for gastronomes, Inari Omakase invites guests to share delectable dishes while discovering an array of intricate Japanese flavours and textures that can sometimes surprise even the most discerning palates.
Address: Kuruçeşme Caddesi No:11, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Web: inariomakase.com/kurucesme/
Park Fora Restaurant
€€€€ · Seafood
Nestled along the beautiful waterfront of Kurucesme, Park Fora is one of the most praised seafood restaurants in Istanbul. Serving fresh and expertly prepared seafood, it provides an unforgettable gastronomic experience with a view to match. The versatility of the menu ensures you can savour your fish just the way you like it – grilled, meuniere, steamed, or tandoori.
The restaurant’s prime location amplifies the dining experience, providing panoramic views of the tranquil Bosphorus and the boats lazily crisscrossing the waters. Park Fora seamlessly combines high-quality food with a picturesque setting, offering an experience that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes.
Address: Muallim Naci Caddesi No:54/A, Cemil Topuzlu Parkı, Kuruçeşme, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Web: parkfora.com
Şans Restaurant
€€ · Turkish, Mediterranean Cuisine
Since its establishment in 1992, Şans Restaurant has been a favourite amongst businesspeople. Housed within an inviting villa in Levent, it captivates guests with its attentive service, expert wine advice, and an exquisitely curated contemporary menu.
The red Turkish wines are not to be missed. The chef’s expertise lies in unveiling the abundant flavours of authentic Turkish cuisine, while seamlessly incorporating Mediterranean influences. It’s an unpretentious retreat that charms visitors with its homely appeal and rich culinary offerings.
Address: Hacı Adil Caddesi, Palmiye Sokak No:1, Levent, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Web: sansrestaurant.com
Sunset Grill & Bar
€€€€ · Classic Cuisine
Perched atop the heights of Ulus Park, Sunset Grill & Bar effortlessly exudes an aura akin to a Hollywood movie. The spacious and sophisticated restaurant affords diners breathtaking views of Istanbul’s cityscape and the captivating Bosphorus. The restaurant is renowned for its extensive menu that includes delicious sushi, contemporary Mediterranean dishes, and grilled specialties.
Coupled with an impressive wine selection and stunning views, it provides an unforgettable dining experience. It has become a sought-after dining destination for the city’s chic crowd, who relish the restaurant’s classic French offerings, Asian-inspired dishes, sushi, and an impressive wine list that is nothing short of a connoisseur’s dream. An evening at Sunset Grill & Bar promises not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience akin to a cinematic epic.
Address: Kuruçeşme Mahallesi, Yol Sokağı No:2, Ulus, Istanbul
Tuğra Restaurant
€€€€ · Turkish, Modern Cuisine
Located in the opulent Çırağan Palace Kempinski, Tuğra offers a royal dining experience with a stunning view of the Bosphorus. The menu features classic Ottoman recipes that are beautifully presented, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion.
As you marvel at the marble pillars and the shimmering Bosphorus, you’re treated to an epicurean journey. Here, the ancient culinary traditions of the Ottoman Empire are paired with the principles of haute cuisine. Chef Inanir breathes life into classic flavours, ingeniously blending various textures and introducing exciting innovation, making each dining experience at Tuğra nothing short of royal.
Address: Çırağan Caddesi No:32, Beşiktaş, Istanbul
Backyard Restaurant & Bar – in Bebek, Besiktas
Backyard is situated in a fantastic gardens of the historic French Orphanage, in between the Arnavutkoy and Etiler neighborhoods of the Besiktas district. This is a lovely place overlooking the Bebek bay, where you can enjoy great food alongside refreshing drinks and cocktails.
They offer variety of egg dishes and Turkish platters for breakfast and brunch, and a selection of salads, pastas and entrées for lunch and dinner, at the Backyard. You can experience their Aperitivo hour tapas selection and enjoy cocktails or a glass of wine in the garden. And at the Backbar, you can enjoy your your drink with DJs transforming the place into a lively venue.
Address: Bebek Mah. Bebeköy Sk., No:4, Bebek, Istanbul
Web: backyard.com.tr
