Discover the charm of Istanbul’s 16 sea-view restaurants with stunning views, where the Bosphorus—the muse of poets and the refuge of lovers—unfolds in all its glory.
From fine-dining establishments to iconic spots that have stood the test of time, these restaurants offer the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a delightful gathering with friends. Immerse yourself in the enchanting blue of the Bosphorus at these exceptional venues.
Istanbul’s Top Restaurants with Stunning Sea View
European Side
Roka – Karaköy
Situated at a prime spot on the Bosphorus, Roka is renowned for its stunning sunsets and its excellent location in Galataport. The restaurant’s view rivals its menu, which features standout dishes like homemade tofu, teriyaki eel maki, beef tataki, and rock sea bass cooked on a robata grill. For dessert, try the raspberry and ivoire chocolate usugiri, which showcases the elegant touch of Chef Suna Hakyemez. The cocktail menu is also a highlight and should not be missed.
Sur Balık – Arnavutköy
Located in the picturesque Arnavutköy, Sur Balık is Turkey’s only chain fish restaurant, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. Overlooking the Bosphorus, this long-established restaurant offers a selection of Mediterranean and international dishes, with fresh seafood at the heart of the menu. Among the guest favorites are the sea bass with pesto sauce and tender octopus. With a seating capacity of 200, Sur Balık is ideal for private events, business dinners, or a leisurely meal, always serving fish in season and with the utmost care to fishing periods.
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Feriye Lokantası – Ortaköy
A Michelin guide favorite for the past two years, Feriye is an iconic Istanbul establishment, celebrated for its exquisite dishes and stunning Bosphorus location. Chef Birkan Erköylü curates a seasonal menu that emphasizes flavors familiar to the Turkish palate. Must-try dishes include roasted eggplant with black mulberry, Hingel ravioli, and Dalyan mullet roe with celery. Seafood lovers will enjoy blue tail shrimp and grilled sea bass, while those who prefer land-based dishes can opt for red or white meat options, with plenty of vegetarian choices as well. Feriye’s signature dishes—crispy pumpkin and burnt milk halva—are particularly popular, making it a perfect spot for indulging in fine dining by the Bosphorus.
Set Balık – Kireçburnu
A family-owned restaurant that has been serving since 1967, Set Balık in Sarıyer’s Kireçburnu district is a nostalgic journey into the old Bosphorus, where fishermen once ruled the waters. Known for its enduring quality and unique flavors, this iconic venue offers specialties like grilled calamari, parsley with pomegranate, soy sauce marinated mackerel, roasted seafood, and buttery jumbo shrimp. Today, Ferda İşeri runs the restaurant, having honed her culinary skills abroad, including in New York. She brings innovative ideas to the kitchen while maintaining the timeless appeal of the Bosphorus. Don’t miss their variety of appetizers as you enjoy the unmatched view and fresh fish.
Nobu Istanbul – Elmadağ
Ranked among the world’s top restaurants, Nobu is a must-visit destination in Istanbul, combining its signature dishes with breathtaking views. Situated in the Ritz-Carlton hotel, Nobu has earned its place in the Michelin guide’s recommendations, even without a star. For an unforgettable dining experience, try the Omakase menu, showcasing the chef’s signature creations. Desserts are equally inventive, with standout options like the chocolate bento box (hot chocolate fondant with green tea ice cream), satandagi (pistachio, chocolate ganache, almond ice cream), and the Nobu cheesecake (oat cookie cheesecake with strawberry sorbet). Enjoying these award-winning flavors with a stunning sea view at sunset is truly priceless.
Sunset Grill&Bar – Ulus
Since introducing the sushi bar concept to Turkey in 1999, Sunset Grill & Bar has become a renowned destination in Ulus, offering a delightful blend of Mediterranean, Turkish, and Japanese cuisine. As a member of Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, this fine dining establishment boasts an impressive selection of wines, cognacs, whiskeys, and Port wines. Signature dishes include the “Sunset” fillet, while the Turkish coffee cream with vanilla ice cream and crunchy bits, and passion fruit cream with coconut ice cream and mango mousse, are crowd favorites. After dinner, the terrace bar provides a vibrant atmosphere with soothing music, perfect for a relaxing evening.
Izaka Terrace – Gümüşsuyu
Izaka Terrace, known for its slogan “The Address of the Most Sensitive Palates,” has made a significant mark on Istanbul’s gastronomic scene. With a commitment to innovative cuisine, it offers a unique menu blending original Istanbul flavors with exclusive twists on global dishes. Highlights include the Izaka kebab, raspberry craquelin choux, and wet date cake. The venue also hosts special events with live music, offering a stunning view and an inviting atmosphere for memorable occasions.
Octo Istanbul – Beyoğlu
Perched on the 9th floor of the Marriott Hotel, Octo offers breathtaking views of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus, making it one of the Michelin-recommended dining spots in Istanbul. Under the guidance of Portuguese chef Jorge Lavos Costa, the menu highlights seafood, with unique touches such as breads made from a 60-year-old family yeast recipe. Emphasizing an eco-friendly philosophy, Octo uses local ingredients to create a fusion of Eastern and Western cuisines. From classic seafood soup and sea bass marinade to Portuguese specialties like Pasteis de Bacalhau (codfish croquettes) and Peixinhos da Horta (Portuguese green beans), the offerings are diverse and flavorful. Remember to dress smart casual for a visit.
Okra – Taksim
Situated on the 20th floor of The Marmara Taksim, Okra boasts spectacular city views with the Bosphorus as a striking backdrop. Inspired by the mythological symbolism of fire—representing knowledge, power, and light—Okra focuses on Mediterranean cuisine with a fiery twist. Meat lovers will delight in dishes like lamb arm with seven spices and dry-aged wood-fired chops. The fish menu is equally impressive, featuring daily fresh seafood and signature creations like grilled lagos and sea bass variations. For dessert, treat yourself to creamy caramel with milk jam, pumpkin and white chocolate cake, or dark chocolate mousse to cap off a remarkable dining experience.
Topaz – Gümüşsuyu
For nearly two decades, Topaz has been a cornerstone of Istanbul’s fine dining scene, offering both stunning Bosphorus views and exceptional cuisine at its Gümüşsuyu location. Under the culinary expertise of Chef Tevfik Alparslan, the restaurant crafts exquisite dishes like Thracian milk lamb shoulder, 12-hour slow-cooked beef ribs, and charcoal-grilled veal. Seafood enthusiasts will enjoy specialties such as Iskenderun shrimp and seafood linguine, wood-fired saffron seafood paella, and lobster tagliolini. For dessert, the burnt cream pie with Turkish coffee and cherry, alongside the golden-leafed chocolate terrine, promises an unforgettable finale to your meal.
Aqua Bosphorus – Beşiktaş
Situated within the Four Seasons Hotel, Aqua Bosphorus offers a captivating ambiance with its dynamic Bosphorus views. The menu, curated by Chef Görkem Özkan, merges Mediterranean and modern Turkish flavors with a focus on seasonal seafood. Vegetarian options are also creatively presented, with dishes like vegetarian ravioli and fava bean ravioli. For dessert, indulge in the “Pistachio Dream”—a caramelized pistachio butter cream layered with crispy baklava dough and rosehip jam sauce. The cherry and elderberry dessert, featuring mascarpone mousse, elderflower, cherry paste, and fresh strawberries, provides a delightful and refreshing end to your dining experience.
Mikla – Beyoğlu
Since its inception in 2005, Mikla has become a prominent name in Istanbul’s dining scene, consistently earning accolades for its innovative cuisine. The restaurant, located on the top floor of the Marmara Pera Hotel, has been praised by the New York Times as “forward-thinking, well-established and, above all, delicious.” In 2022, it was listed among the “50 Best Restaurants in the World” in the Michelin Guide. Mikla continues to impress with its unique recipes, including favorites like lamb belly mushroom soup with rabbit meat, sooty duck breast, Iskenderun shrimp with rock grove, and grilled sole. The restaurant also offers an array of vegetarian options and is noted for its exceptional cocktails.
Visorante Restaurant – Ortaköy
Visorante offers a breathtaking view of the Bosphorus Bridge and a chic, modern bohemian ambiance. The restaurant’s Italian-inspired menu covers the full spectrum of Italian cuisine. Standout dishes include Barbabietola Confit with goat cheese, Burrata, mushroom agnolotti, smoked eggplant ravioli, seafood pappardelle, and tagliatelle with truffle cream. The charcuterie plates are also a highlight, making Visorante a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated Italian dining experience.
Kaşıbeyaz Bosphorus – Yeniköy
Kaşıbeyaz Bosphorus in Yeniköy has long been a favorite spot for enjoying Istanbul’s stunning sea views. With its expansive indoor and outdoor seating areas spread across three floors, it’s ideal for both casual and group dining. The VIP lounge on the top floor offers a private space for special events. The restaurant combines modern turquoise colors with Ottoman motifs to create an impressive atmosphere. Its menu, featuring popular Turkish cuisine, is served with impeccable presentation, making it a top choice for both locals and international guests.
Asian Side
Del Mare – Çengelköy
Del Mare offers one of the most picturesque views of the Bosphorus in Çengelköy and is celebrated for its seafood. The menu, crafted with fresh and seasonal seafood, includes appetizers like shrimp with avocado, eggplant with tahini, and black carrot tarator. Signature dishes feature shellfish and unique recipes from the chef. The restaurant boasts an extensive wine cellar and provides a delightful conclusion to your meal with desserts like semolina halva with ice cream and baklava wrapped in kadayıf.
Lacivert Restaurant – Anadolu Hisarı
Named after the deep blue waters of the Bosphorus, Lacivert offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, yet remains conveniently close. Located right on the waterfront, the restaurant provides a unique dining experience both during the day and at night. Recognized in the “Seafood” category of the Gault & Millau Istanbul guide, Lacivert combines Mediterranean cuisine with modern gastronomy. Highlights include grilled sea bass with green curry, sea bream cutlet with peas and coconut milk, roasted lantern, grilled lamb chops, and tenderloin çökertme.
