Turkey is a country that evokes a lot of senses, especially in terms of food and spices. From the small street vendors to the sophisticated restaurants, the food of the country is as diverse as the country’s culture and history. From a small fish town with traditional food to a fancy restaurant offering a view of the sea, Turkey’s food is quite the trip. Here is a list of some of the restaurants in Turkey that are worth a visit and a glimpse at Istanbul’s best rooftop restaurants to dine at.
1. Nusr-Et Steakhouse (Istanbul)
Nusr-Et Steakhouse, which became popular due to Salt Bae, the chef who became famous on the Internet, will be interesting for lovers of meat. This restaurant is in Istanbul and specializes in quality steaks of beef and lamb, well marinated and grilled to taste. The flamboyancy of the chefs makes the dining experience a little more fun than usual.
Accompany your steak with a glass of wine from the huge list they offer and you are in for a delicious meal. Though it is a little expensive, the quality of food and the environment makes it worth the money.
2. Pandeli (Istanbul)
Located in the old city of Istanbul, in the heart of the Grand Bazaar, Pandeli is one of the oldest restaurants in Istanbul which has been offering the traditional Turkish cuisine since 1901. Pandeli restaurant is famous for such dishes as lamb stew, stuffed grape leaves, and hünkar beğendi – an eggplant casserole with lamb; all served in a building that has witnessed the history of the Ottoman Empire.
This restaurant is popular among the citizens and tourists because of its blue-tiled interior and location as well as the combination of history and food.
3. 7 Mehmet (Antalya)
If you are visiting the beautiful coast of Turkey, do not forget to visit 7 Mehmet in Antalya. Specializing in the authentic Turkish cuisine, this restaurant presents a selection of dishes that are inspired by Mediterranean and Anatolian cuisine.
Grilled fish, juicy kebabs, it’s all made from fresh products, which are delivered from local producers. The restaurant is situated on a hill, which gives a beautiful view of the Mediterranean sea, which makes it ideal for lunch or dinner.
4. Meze by Lemon Tree (Istanbul)
Meze by Lemon Tree is a contemporary version of the classic Turkish meyhane, which is situated in the Beyoğlu district. This small restaurant offers a wide range of meze dishes starting with the most traditional meze dishes such as hummus and mussels stuffed with spices and ending with the dishes that include seasonal products.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is rather close, and the personnel is very polite, which makes this place perfect for a date. Accompany your meze with a glass of raki and you will get the best of the Turkish meal experience.
5. Seki Restaurant (Cappadocia)
If you are a fan of good food and stunning views, then Seki Restaurant in Cappadocia is the place to be. Seki is situated at the Argos in Cappadocia hotel and the restaurant presents traditional Anatolian cuisine with a contemporary approach.
From simple appetizers such as salads and complex ones like stews, to the well-cooked meats that are served, the food is prepared from fresh local produce. It’s terrace has a beautiful view of the fairy chimneys and valleys, so it is a great place to eat.
6. Mikla (Istanbul)
Located on the roof of The Marmara Pera Hotel, Mikla is one of the best rooftop restaurants in Istanbul. Mikla is a modern restaurant that combines Turkish and Scandinavian cuisine offering the dishes of the season, such as lamb loin with smoked eggplant and slow-cooked duck breast.
The best thing about eating at Mikla is the view of Bosphorus and the Golden Horn at night or in the evening. It is a favorite especially for people who want to dine in a fine restaurant with a beautiful view.
7. 360 Istanbul (Istanbul)
The company known as 360 Istanbul is located in Beyoğlu and it offers visitors a view of the city from the rooftop. This restaurant is an international restaurant that has won an award and offers a range of foods such as sushi, pizza, and Turkish food.
At night, 360 becomes a bar and nightclub and therefore is ideal for dinner and dancing. In any case, it is one of those places that you would not easily forget because of the food, the place, and the ambiance.
8. Leb-i Derya (Istanbul)
If one wants a more relaxed atmosphere on the rooftop, Leb-i Derya is the best place to go. This restaurant is in Galata and has a casual dining setting and offers a wide variety of Turkish and international dishes.
Whether it is a working lunch or a candlelight dinner, the view of Bosphorus and the historical peninsula of Istanbul is a bonus. They have seafood where they prepare their dishes and one must try the grilled octopus.
Why to Visit Istanbul’s Best Rooftop Restaurants?
As with the geography of Turkey, the food is also a combination of everything one could ever desire. From the old school meyhane to the new trend setting restaurants, Turkey has the best restaurants that capture the essence of the country’s cuisine. But when it comes to eating with a view, Turkey’s best rooftop restaurants take it up a notch and literally give you a bird’s eye view of the city of Istanbul while you feast on their delicious offerings.
Conclusion
Turkey is a country that can be a dream for a gourmet, and Turkish restaurants are a unique opportunity to taste the best of the country’s cuisine. Whether you are tasting delicious local cuisine in ancient restaurants such as Pandeli or having dinner in the top rooftop restaurants in Istanbul, you will not be disappointed with the dining experiences that will leave a mark on the country.
If there is anything that Istanbul’s best rooftop restaurants do not lack, it is a view. These places are ideal to taste exquisite food while admiring the Bosphorus and the city’s skyline as well as historical sites.
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