Queen Seagull Boutique Hotel

A narrow street leads you to this somewhat hidden gem. The waterside setting is a draw in itself, but the main attractions are the barbecue and tandoori oven. With a sure hand, the chefs flame-grill aubergine, for example, and then season it with chilli and five-spice powder. Their marinated lamb and beef are cooked to juicy perfection, generously spiced and served with lavash bread that has been briefly crisped up on the barbecue. The various mezze, salads and desserts such as halva stay true to tradition. And for this price point, the value is fantastic!

Deraliye is a landmark of the historical Sultanahmet neighbourhood, where there is one tourist restaurant next to the other. The colourful, opulent decor immediately catches the eye and, like the cuisine, is a tribute to the Ottoman Empire. The extensive menu features an array of dishes devised for sharing and specialities such as mezze, barbecued offerings and kebabs. Tempting options include duck stew in filo pastry with fragrant spiced rice, or a lamb and tomato dish, slowly simmered in an earthenware pot to let the flavours meld. Here, you can savour sumptuous Ottoman cuisine, occasionally

The Sultanahmet neighbourhood is known for all its tourist restaurants, where menus consist of photographs of dishes. In that respect it's no different at the rustic-style Khorasani, but what sets this grill restaurant apart is the chef's dedication to quality. The meat, barbecued to order, and the kebabs are second to none. We thoroughly enjoyed the kebab with succulent lamb, crisp vegetables and, of course, the wonderful pita bread that comes with it. For flavoursome food with no nonsense, Khorasani is the place.

This beautiful contemporary restaurant with a romantic roof terrace is right next to Cağaloğlu Hamam. It serves Turkish culinary classics, some dating back to 1741, with a modern twist. The chef sometimes introduces surprising textures and flavours but never loses sight of tradition. In the evening, they serve only a more sophisticated fine dining menu. Here, you can savour a zesty sea bass ceviche, as well as lamb brochettes with distinct barbecue notes and a punchy aubergine caviar. Oenophiles should definitely take the opportunity to explore the wine cellar.

OCAK has breathed new life into this former tobacco warehouse in the Old City, turning it into an intimate restaurant with exposed brick walls, soft lighting and marble finishings. The chef proposes only a single set menu that showcases his unique take on Turkish cuisine. He elevates chickpeas to new heights in a variety of dishes, including an amazing crispy deep-fried creation. He consistently strikes a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Your curiosity will be piqued by every dish.

In summer, Giritli welcomes you to its atmospheric terrace, where the kitchen is also located. If the weather lets you down, you can always cross the street to the romantic Mediterranean-style sister restaurant. Be sure to explore the enticing mezze set menu (drinks included), which inventively showcases the traditional flavours of Crete. The perfectly seasoned and generously portioned dishes feature impeccably fresh produce. Think marinated sea bass with fresh herbs, or potato salad with a judicious touch of vinegar and vibrant tzatziki. A real feast!

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