Best restaurants in Sultanahmet, the heart of Istanbul, are home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, including the majestic Hagia Sophia and the stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque. But beyond the architectural marvels, this historic district offers a culinary experience like no other. Here is our carefully curated list of the best restaurants in Sultanahmet, featuring establishments that promise a perfect blend of traditional Turkish flavors and modern hospitality.
1. Food Palace 1981 Anatolian Restaurant
Google Maps Rating: 4.9⭐★★★★★
Address: Kağıthane Street, Fatih – Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Specialty: Authentic Ottoman Cuisine, Kebabs, and Traditional Turkish Dishes
A name synonymous with excellence, FoodPalace 1981 Anatolian is not just a restaurant but a culinary journey through the rich history of Turkish and Ottoman cuisine. Located within walking distance of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and Hagia Sophia, FoodPalace stands as a beacon of quality, taste, and tradition.
At FoodPalace 1981 Anatolian, the experience begins the moment you step inside. The warm and welcoming ambiance immediately sets the tone for an unforgettable meal. The décor reflects the rich cultural heritage of Turkey, with intricate designs and traditional elements that transport you to a bygone era. The staff, trained to provide top-notch service, ensure that every guest feels like royalty.
The menu at Food Palace 1981 is a celebration of Anatolian and Turkish flavors. Each dish is meticulously prepared using the finest ingredients, sourced locally to ensure freshness and authenticity. Let’s explore some of the standout items on the menu:
Traditional Turkish Mezzes
- Hummus: Pureed chickpeas with lemon, tahini, garlic, and olive oil. Creamy and rich, this classic mezze is the perfect way to start your meal.
- Haydari: A refreshing yogurt-based dip infused with garlic and herbs. It’s light, tangy, and a must-try.
- Ezme Salad: This spicy salsa-like mezze combines finely chopped tomatoes, onions, peppers, and a touch of pomegranate molasses for a sweet and tangy kick.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves with Olive Oil: Known as “Zeytinyağlı Yaprak Sarma” in Turkish, these grape leaves are filled with a savory mix of rice, onions, and aromatic spices.
Soups
- Ezogelin Soup: This hearty and comforting soup is a staple of Turkish cuisine. Made with red lentils, rice, and a blend of spices, it’s both nourishing and flavorful.
- Vegetable Soup: A medley of seasonal vegetables cooked to perfection. Light yet satisfying, it’s the perfect start to your dining experience.
Warm Appetizers
- Paçanga Pastry: Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, this pastry is stuffed with pastırma (Turkish cured beef), cheese, and vegetables. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s hard to resist.
- Stuffed Meatballs (Kibbeh): These golden-fried delights are filled with a mixture of minced meat, walnuts, and spices, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Salads
- Palace Salad with Cheese and Thyme: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese, topped with a sprinkle of thyme and a drizzle of olive oil and pomegranate syrup.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: Juicy, marinated chicken breast served over a bed of crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan cheese.
Vegetarian Dishes
- Falafel: Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these chickpea fritters are served with a creamy tahini sauce.
- Vegetable Casserole: A flavorful blend of seasonal vegetables cooked in a rich tomato sauce, topped with herbs and spices.
Main Courses
- Iskender Kebab: This iconic dish features thinly sliced doner meat served over buttered pita bread, topped with tomato sauce and a dollop of creamy yogurt.
- Lamb Testi Kebab: A show-stopping dish cooked in a sealed clay pot, ensuring that all the flavors are perfectly preserved. The lamb is tender, juicy, and bursting with spices.
- Hünkar Beğendi: A regal dish of grilled tenderloin served atop a bed of creamy, smoked eggplant puree.
Seafood Delights
- Grilled Sea Bass: Freshly caught and expertly grilled, this dish is served with a side of seasonal vegetables and a wedge of lemon.
- Shrimp Casserole: Succulent shrimp baked with garlic, mushrooms, and tomatoes in a bubbling casserole dish.
Desserts
- Kunefe: A traditional Turkish dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, melted cheese, and sweet syrup, topped with crushed pistachios.
- Baklava: Layers of flaky pastry filled with a mixture of nuts and honey, served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
In addition to its exceptional food, FoodPalace 1981 Anatolian is committed to sustainability and community engagement. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local farmers and suppliers, ensuring that every dish is both fresh and environmentally responsible.
As the best restaurant in Sultanahmet, FoodPalace 1981 has set its sights on becoming the premier dining destination in Istanbul by 2025. With its dedication to quality, authenticity, and innovation, it’s no wonder that this establishment continues to win the hearts of its guests.
Sultanahmet, the historic heart of Istanbul, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both cultural and culinary adventures. Home to the iconic Hagia Sophia and the stunning Blue Mosque, this district also boasts some of the Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet, making it a haven for food enthusiasts. As you stroll through its charming streets, you’ll discover that the Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet offer not only delicious Turkish cuisine but also a unique blend of history and hospitality. Whether you’re craving traditional Ottoman dishes or modern takes on Anatolian flavors, the Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet cater to every palate. From hidden gems like Hidden Garden to iconic spots like FoodPalace 1981 Anatolian, the options are endless.
2. Hidden Garden Restaurant
Google Maps Rating: 4.9⭐★★★★★
Address: Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul
Specialty: Fusion Cuisine, Mediterranean Dishes, and Kebabs
Nestled in the quieter streets of Sultanahmet, Hidden Garden lives up to its name by offering a serene and intimate dining experience. This charming restaurant is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The menu features traditional Turkish dishes prepared with care and served in a cozy atmosphere.
Highlights include their tender lamb shank, flavorful mezes, and freshly baked bread. Hidden Garden is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing meal in a beautiful setting.
3. Matbah Restaurant
Google Maps Rating: 4.5⭐★★★★☆
Address: Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul
Specialty: Fusion Cuisine
For a taste of Ottoman history, Matbah Restaurant is a top pick. Located near Hagia Sophia, this restaurant specializes in dishes once served in the kitchens of the Topkapi Palace. From Sultan’s Delight (Hünkar Beğendi) to Stuffed Quince, Matbah’s menu offers a unique glimpse into the flavors of the Ottoman Empire.
With its elegant interior and attentive service, Matbah provides a dining experience that is both educational and delicious.
4. Balikci Sabahattin
Google Maps Rating: 4.3⭐ ★★★★☆
Address: Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul
Specialty: Fusion Cuisine
Seafood lovers will find their paradise at Balikci Sabahattin. This family-run restaurant is renowned for its fresh fish and shellfish dishes, prepared with simple yet flavorful techniques. The grilled sea bass and calamari are particularly popular among diners. Located in a charming historic building, Balikci Sabahattin combines culinary excellence with a cozy ambiance.
5. Deraliye�
Google Maps Rating: 4.7⭐ ★★★★☆
Address: Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul
Specialty: Fusion Cuisine
Deraliye offers a refined dining experience with its focus on authentic Ottoman recipes. The restaurant’s menu features dishes such as Stuffed Melon and Lamb Stew with Dried Fruits, each meticulously crafted to honor traditional cooking methods. Deraliye’s sophisticated setting makes it a great choice for a special night out.
6. The Han Restaurant
📍 Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. No:33, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.4 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Mixed Kebab
- Lentil Soup
7. Sultanahmet Fish House
📍 Address: Alemdar, İncili Çavuş Sk. No:15, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.6 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Grilled Sea Bass
- Shrimp Casserole
8. Cozy Pub & Restaurant
📍 Address: Alemdar, Çatalçeşme Sk. No:5, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.3 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Chicken Shish Kebab
- Penne Arrabiata
9. Amedros Café & Restaurant
📍 Address: Alemdar, Divan Yolu Cd. No:68, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.5 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Hünkar Beğendi (Sultan’s Delight)
- Vegetarian Casserole
10. Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant
📍 Address: Alemdar, Prof. Kazım İsmail Gürkan Cd. No:14, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.5 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Lamb Shank
- Imam Bayildi
11. Rumist Cafe & Art Bistro
📍 Address: Cankurtaran, Akbıyık Cd. No:5, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.7 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Lamb Chops
- Stuffed Aubergine
12. The Terrace Restaurant
📍 Address: Alemdar, Divanyolu Cd. No:20, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.2 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Grilled Chicken
- Vegetable Stew
13. Albura Kathisma
📍 Address: Cankurtaran, Akbıyık Cd. No:44, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.4 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Ottoman Style Lamb Stew
- Mixed Meze Plate
14. Doy Doy Restaurant
📍 Address: Sultanahmet, Şht. Mehmet Paşa Sk. No:13, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.1 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Doner Kebab
- Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)
15. Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi
📍 Address: Alemdar, Divanyolu Cd. No:12, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Google Maps Rating: 4.3 ★★★★☆
🍽️ Main Dishes:
- Grilled Meatballs (Köfte)
- White Bean Salad
Visitors rave about the Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet for their ambiance, quality, and authentic experiences. Whether you’re indulging in freshly prepared seafood or savoring a hearty kebab, the Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet promise to make your dining experience unforgettable. So, while exploring this historic area, be sure to immerse yourself in the local culture and treat your taste buds to the exquisite offerings from the Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet. Truly, the charm of this neighborhood is incomplete without enjoying a meal at one of the Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet, where history, flavor, and warmth come together in perfect harmony.
