We sent our in-house influencer, Edward Kim, to Turkey on a travel research mission. His firsthand experience brings you the most authentic tips and recommendations straight from the field.

Turkey is a flavor-packed journey waiting to happen. Its dishes have been perfected over centuries. Every bite tells a story, every flavor carries a bit of history, and every meal is an experience you won’t find anywhere else. 

From savoring a traditional kebab with a view of the Bosphorus to diving into the depths of an underground cave for a rustic dinner, Turkey’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself. This guide is your ticket to experiencing Turkey’s most unique, unforgettable dining spots that are sure to leave a mark on your taste buds and memories long after you've left.

Istanbul: Where to Find Incredible Dining Experiences

Discover Why Locals and Tourists Alike Flock to Karaköy Lokantası

This place takes traditional Turkish dishes and gives them a fresh, modern spin, making it stand out from the usual spots. They’ve nailed the balance between keeping things authentic and adding a bit of contemporary flair, so every dish feels like a work of art. The cozy, warm lighting and inviting décor make the whole experience feel both classy and comfortable, like you’re right at home.

Expect a mix of locals and tourists, all eager to indulge in the restaurant's famed dishes. The service is attentive and friendly, with knowledgeable staff who will guide you through the menu and offer excellent recommendations.

How to Get There

• Situated in the lively district of Karaköy, this restaurant is easy to reach via public transport. Take the T1 tram line to the Karaköy stop and walk about 5 minutes to reach the restaurant. You can also take a ferry to Karaköy Pier, from where it’s a short stroll. 

• Taxis are also an option, but Istanbul’s traffic can be unpredictable.

What to Try

• Start with their renowned hummus, which is exceptionally smooth and rich in flavor, served with freshly baked bread that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. 

• If you're feeling adventurous, try the lamb brain—a Turkish delicacy that’s surprisingly tender and creamy. For a safer option, the lamb shank or grilled sea bass are equally fantastic choices.

Tipping Culture: Tipping around 10-15% is standard. The staff here are incredibly attentive, so feel free to tip more if you receive exceptional service.

Pro Tips: Make a reservation at least a day in advance, particularly if you’re planning to visit on a weekend. Ask about their daily specials, as they often have unique dishes that aren’t on the regular menu.

Dine at Hamdi and Catch The City Transitioning From Day to Night

Hamdi’s reputation as a legendary kebab spot has made it an Istanbul favourite since the 1960s. The combination of high-quality meats, expertly prepared dishes, and panoramic views makes this a popular spot for food lovers. This is also why you’ll almost always need a reservation to dine here.

It’s a multi-story establishment with several floors of dining, but the rooftop terrace is the star of the show, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and Istanbul's Old City. The atmosphere is a mix of elegant and relaxed—with locals and tourists savoring the array of Turkish kebabs.

How to Get There

Located near the Spice Bazaar and the Eminönü area, Hamdi Restaurant is easy to access via the T1 tram line (Eminönü station) or by ferry. From the tram stop, it’s just a 5-minute walk.

What to Try

• The mixed kebab platter is a must, as it allows you to sample various meats, from lamb to chicken, all cooked to perfection. 

• For starters, try the hummus or baba ghanoush, and for dessert, indulge in their baklava.

Pro Tips: Visit just before sunset to watch the city light up as you dine, and request a terrace table when making your reservation for the best experience.

Sail to the Maiden's Tower and Enjoy Fresh Seafood With a 360-Degree Panorama

Once you arrive, you’ll be dining inside a historical tower with 360-degree views of Istanbul. The atmosphere is incredibly romantic, with candle-lit tables and gentle music playing in the background. The restaurant’s ambiance is perfect for special occasions or a memorable night out.

Dining in a tower with centuries of history is an experience in itself. As you enjoy your meal, you’re surrounded by Istanbul’s stunning skyline, and the gentle waves of the Bosphorus create a soothing backdrop.

How to Get There

Located in the middle of the Bosphorus Strait, you’ll need to take a boat to reach this iconic restaurant. Boats leave regularly from Kabataş, Salacak, or Üsküdar, and the journey takes about 5-10 minutes.

What to Try

• The seafood here is outstanding, with the shrimp casserole and grilled sea bass being the standout dishes. 

• Pair your meal with a glass of Turkish wine to complete the experience.

Pro Tips: Check the last departure times for the return boat trip to avoid being stranded.

Enjoy Rooftop Dining With Stunning Views of Istanbul at Mikla

Mikla sits right on the rooftop of The Marmara Pera Hotel, giving you some of the most stunning views of Istanbul's skyline, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus Strait. Chef Mehmet Gürs brings together Turkish flavors with a cool Scandinavian twist, crafting a menu that's both innovative and true to its roots.

Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by a stylish and contemporary setting with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer mesmerizing views of the city. The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed, and the knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu. Reservations are highly recommended.

How to Get There

• Mikla is located in the Beyoğlu district, one of Istanbul's most vibrant neighborhoods. You can take the M2 metro line to Şişhane station, which is just a 5-minute walk from the restaurant. 

• Taxis are also a convenient option, especially if you're coming from other parts of the city, but be prepared for traffic during peak hours.

What to Try

• Signature dishes include the lamb with fermented vegetables, which boasts rich, earthy flavors, and the smoked raw bonito, served with delicate herbs. 

• For dessert, don't miss the Turkish coffee ice cream—a perfect ending to an unforgettable meal.

Pro Tip: Dress smart-casual, as this is an upscale dining spot.

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Cappadocia: Must-Try Cave Dining Experiences

Experience a One-of-a-Kind Cave Experience at Top Deck Cave Restaurant

Located in Göreme, Top Deck Cave Restaurant offers an authentic dining experience within a traditional Cappadocian cave. The low lighting, rustic stone walls, and cozy atmosphere create a unique and intimate setting that captures the spirit of the region.

As you enter the cave, you'll be greeted by the aroma of traditional Turkish cooking. This is a family-run restaurant, and you’ll feel the warmth and hospitality from the moment you step in. The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is more than happy to explain the dishes and offer recommendations.

How to Get There

The restaurant is centrally located in Göreme, making it easy to reach by foot if you're staying in the area. If you're coming from further away, taxis are readily available, or you can take a local minibus (dolmuş) to Göreme town center and walk a few minutes to the restaurant.

What to Try

• The slow-cooked lamb is a standout, tender and bursting with flavor, accompanied by aromatic spices and served with fluffy rice. 

• The stuffed grape leaves, known as "yaprak sarma," are another must-try, filled with a delicious blend of rice, herbs, and spices. 

• Pair your meal with a glass of local Cappadocian wine for an authentic experience.

Pro Tip: Top Deck Cave Restaurant is small and fills up quickly, so make a reservation in advance. Try to visit on a weekday for a quieter experience, and be sure to arrive with an empty stomach—the portions are generous!

Get a Taste of Turkey’s Past at Old Cappadocia Café Restaurant

Located in the heart of Cappadocia, this restaurant offers an enchanting cave-like ambiance, making you feel like you've stepped back in time. With its arched ceilings and traditional décor, Old Cappadocia Café Restaurant provides a truly authentic Anatolian dining experience, complete with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

The interior resembles a cozy cave, with stone walls and traditional Turkish textiles creating a warm ambiance. The staff is friendly and attentive, and often share stories about the history of the dishes to make your dining experience even more memorable.

How to Get There

Similar to Top Deck Cave Restaurant, Old Cappadocia Cafe Restaurant is located in Göreme—so take a local minibus to Göreme and walk to the restaurant or hail a taxi.

What to Try

• The Testi Kebab is the star of the menu here—a traditional dish where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked inside a clay pot and dramatically cracked open at your table. 

• The flavors are deep and rich, with the meat tender and infused with the spices. For a lighter option, try the mantı (Turkish dumplings) served with a dollop of yogurt and garlic sauce.

Pro Tip: The Testi Kebab requires some preparation time, so it's best to order it as soon as you arrive. If you're unsure about which dish to choose, ask your server for recommendations based on your preferences—they’re more than happy to guide you.

Antalya: Top Spots for an Authentic Turkish Food Journey

Experience 7 Mehmet’s 70-year Legacy of Turkish and Mediterranean Flavors

7 Mehmet is a culinary institution in Antalya, famous for its exquisite blend of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, providing stunning panoramic views. Founded by Mehmet, who started as a dishwasher, it’s a testament to hard work and dedication to Turkish culinary traditions.

The restaurant has an upscale yet relaxed ambiance, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The service is attentive and professional, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu, happy to make suggestions.

How to Get There

• 7 Mehmet is located near Konyaaltı Beach in Antalya, and you can reach it by taxi, which is the most convenient option.

• If you prefer public transport, take the KL08 bus from the city center to the Konyaaltı Caddesi stop, and the restaurant is a short walk from there.

What to Try

• The lamb tandir (slow-cooked lamb) is a must-try, tender and full of flavor, served with aromatic rice and roasted vegetables.

• The mezze platter offers a delightful variety of small dishes, including stuffed grape leaves, spicy ezme (tomato salad), and creamy hummus.

• For dessert, indulge in the künefe, a sweet cheese pastry drenched in syrup.

Indulge in The Seafood & Sunsets at Lara Balık Evi

Lara Balık Evi is a seafood lover's paradise, offering freshly caught fish and an array of other seafood delicacies in a charming coastal setting. Situated right by the water, this restaurant provides beautiful views of the Mediterranean, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed, al fresco dining experience.

The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, with tables set up right by the water. The friendly staff is always ready to help you choose from the fresh catch of the day, ensuring you get the best dining experience possible.

How to Get There

• Lara Balık Evi is located in the Lara district of Antalya. You can take a taxi from the city center, which takes around 20 minutes.

• If you prefer to use public transport, take bus lines LF09 or LF10 to the Lara Beach area, followed by a short walk to the restaurant.

What to Try

• Start with the fried calamari, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with a zesty garlic sauce.

• For your main course, the grilled sea bream is a standout, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.

• Complement your meal with a glass of rakı, a traditional Turkish anise-flavored spirit.

Pro Tip: Seafood is priced by weight, so if you're on a budget, ask your server for guidance on portion sizes. If you're visiting in the evening, bring a light jacket as it can get breezy by the water.

Dine at Urfa Kebapçısı, Gaziantep: Turkey’s Culinary Capital

If you’re a culinary enthusiast, you can’t visit Turkey and skip dining at Urfa Kebapçısı. This humble eatery specializes in serving some of the country's finest kebabs, drawing in locals and visitors alike.

Expect a lively, no-frills atmosphere filled with the aromas of sizzling meat on charcoal grills. The restaurant is bustling and casual, with simple seating and an emphasis on the food rather than décor. You’ll see chefs expertly grilling skewers, making the atmosphere as much a sensory experience as it is a culinary one.

How to Get There

• Located in Gaziantep’s city center, Urfa Kebapçısı is accessible by local buses or a taxi ride from most hotels. 

• If you're in the Old Town, it’s just a short walk away. Make sure to have the address handy to avoid getting lost in the maze-like streets.

What to Try

• As for the starter, try Lahmacun—a thin and crispy Turkish pizza, topped with minced meat, herbs, and spices, is light yet flavorful. It’s the ideal way to start your meal and warm up your palate.

• For the main course, try the mixed kebab platter—a selection of the best kebabs, including lamb, beef, chicken, and liver. This platter allows you to experience a variety of flavors and textures.

• Don’t forget to try their signature spicy pepper paste—it’s a local favorite!

Turkish Dining Goes Far Beyond Just Filling Stomachs

Dining in Turkey is a well-rounded experience of being enveloped by rich aromas, hearing the sizzle of lamb on a grill, and sharing hearty platters with friends.

It’s the kind of food that you’ll daydream about long after your trip has ended—the flavors that linger, and the dishes that keep calling you back. If you’re seeking more than just a meal, but a deep dive into the heart and soul, Turkey is a spot you simply can't miss. Check out our other guides to Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and our general guide to navigating Turkey.