Elite World Grand Istanbul Küçükyalı

Kenan and Pınar Çetinkaya welcome you warmly to their intimate restaurant, where capacity is limited. A seat at the counter offers the perfect vantage point to watch the chefs expertly tame the open fire (there are also a few tables in the conservatory). It creates a convivial atmosphere too – you'll almost certainly strike up conversations with your neighbours, and the chefs happily take the time to talk you through their dishes.What may at first glance look simple reveals remarkable depth once you taste it. The chefs focus on bringing out the true essence of their ingredients. They have a pe

At this down-to-earth eatery, conviviality and honest cooking set the tone. You can see the chefs prepare everything from scratch in the open kitchen, from the brioche to the dressings, which is instantly reassuring. Dishes might include beans simmered in a creamy meat jus, served with yoghurt and yellow pepper, topped with succulent roast beef, or a street food-style sandwich filled with grilled mackerel, spiced mayonnaise and beetroot (also available to take away). There are so many options! This is easygoing dining with personality, at prices that are hard to beat.

Istanbul residents come to this sun-drenched restaurant to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The waiters give expert advice on the wide selection of mezze in the display fridge – the salads are beautifully fragrant! And that's just the beginning, because the traditional preparation methods accentuate the rich flavours of super-fresh fish and seafood. Whatever you choose, the chef will cook it according to your wishes: the bluefish, for example, can be barbecued whole and served with al dente vegetables. This is ingredient-led cuisine that never fails to impress.

Head to the neighbourhood of upmarket Bağdat Avenue and experience the convivial and friendly atmosphere of Nazende Cadde. This is a charming place, in which to share all kinds of delicacies with friends. The tempting menu changes daily to take advantage of the best market offerings and is simply irresistible. The chefs put their heart and soul into every creation and have a few signature dishes up their sleeves, including succulent, boldly spiced grilled squid rings. They like working with offal, pairing tenderly cooked lamb brains with fresh parsley, diced tomatoes, olive oil and lemon. At t

Stylish and spacious, Sapa is located in a predominantly corporate neighbourhood and caters to breakfast, lunch and dinner crowds. We especially recommend the set menu, available from 2pm. (N.B. The 12-course menu is for a minimum of two people.) The chef has a penchant for open-flame cooking and a knack for balancing robust flavours with contemporary culinary lightness. He accompanies succulent grilled rockfish with a salmon cream paired with chestnut and capers for a touch of fresh acidity. A drizzle of syrup adds a hint of sweetness – a refreshing spin on Turkish cuisine!

Lunch at Fauna is the perfect excuse to visit the Ataşehir district, just outside the city centre. Diners sit at long tables, often side by side with others, while the chefs get to work making fresh pasta. At Fauna, Italian and Turkish cuisine come together in generous shareable dishes. Think ravioli with a bold Obruk cheese filling cooked al dente and accompanied by a light butter sauce with a subtle tartness and sage. Local ingredients take centre stage in this ongoing pursuit of culinary finesse. Advance booking is strongly recommended!

Sushi