Best Wine Bars in Istanbul – 2
We are tracing the trail of wine through the winding streets of Taksim. From historic passageways to softly lit alleyways, this journey promises not only to please the palate but also to nourish the soul at some of best wine bars in Istanbul.
In this second article introducing the city’s vibrant wine scene, we’ll explore four wine bars located in the Taksim area. Conveniently situated within walking distance of one another, these venues offer the perfect opportunity for a casual “wine bar tour.” Another common thread connecting them is their role as cultural ambassadors: they serve as a gateway for foreign visitors to discover the diverse and rich world of Turkish wines. Taksim, a magnet for international tourists, inevitably brings these wine bars to the forefront of searches for the word “wine.” Indeed, half—or sometimes even more—of their clientele consists of foreign guests.
The 4 Best Wine Bars in Istanbul
Ambiyans Wine House
Situated in the historic Tunnel Passage, dating back to the 1880s, Ambiyans Wine House (hereafter referred to as Ambiyans) stands out first and foremost for its atmospheric charm. The moment you enter the passage, you are embraced by its historical character. The ceiling soars above you, giving the illusion of being outdoors. Since its opening in 2012, Ambiyans has been thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the architectural heritage of its surroundings. Shelves filled with bottles line walls of antique brick, creating a setting that is both elegant and inviting. Whether you prefer to sit inside and admire the vintage ambiance or join the crowd at the outdoor tables nestled in the passageway, the experience is equally rewarding.
Ambiyans offers a carefully curated menu of around 100 wines, evenly split between domestic and international producers. The selection has evolved over time, shaped by experience and close engagement with customers. Listening to what guests enjoy, the team has refined the list accordingly. The menu is categorized into sparkling, white, rosé, and red wines. For those who prefer wines by the glass rather than by the bottle, four varieties are offered in each category (excluding sparkling).
To accompany your wine, the cheese and charcuterie platters are the top recommendation—both delicious and visually appealing. The only hot food on offer is a variety of pizzas made with different ingredients. Additionally, the drinks menu includes a modest but satisfying selection of beers, cocktails, and spirits.
Address: Asmalı Mescit, Tünel Gç. No:1/C, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Beyoğlu Şaraphanesi
When the lively scene of Asmalımescit—with its Irish pubs and beer-drinking crowds—starts to feel overwhelming, slip away to the serenity of Beyoğlu Şaraphanesi, where the first thing to strike you will be its thoughtfully designed interior. And entering a wine bar, in itself, feels like a refreshing shift of mood. In winter, you can warm your hands by the fireplace and feel instantly revived. In the warmer months, such as when this article is published, the breezy terrace is the perfect retreat.
Opened in 2018 and housed in a beautifully restored four-story building, Beyoğlu Şaraphanesi has been crafted with care. Its walls, adorned with wine accessories and vintage bottles, are pleasing to the eye and speak to the venue’s refined character. While the outdoor seating is limited, the indoor area is spacious and well-ventilated—ideal for both romantic dinners and larger gatherings. The wine list includes sparkling, white, rosé, and red wines, in addition to a “Natural Wine Selection” that reflects current trends, and a sweet wine selection that is a personal favorite of mine.
I must stress: don’t skip the dessert wines! Whether to cap off your meal or to contrast with salty and savory dishes, they’re a delightful addition. Savor them, appreciate them, and support their continued presence on wine lists.
With an impressive selection of around 250 wines, the menu offers three to four choices by the glass for each category. One of the standout features is the availability of five different red wines served in magnum bottles—each holding 1.5 liters, double the size of a standard bottle. These are ideal for groups and create a dramatic presence on the table.
Unlike some wine bars where the kitchen plays a secondary role, Beyoğlu Şaraphanesi gives equal weight to its culinary offerings. The venue takes pride in both its wine and its food. Chef Cengiz Akbulut, known for his exquisite fresh pasta, ensures that while the core classics remain constant, other menu items evolve with the seasons. He describes his creative process as one that begins in his mind: he visualizes the dish, refines it mentally, and only then brings it to life in the kitchen.
I asked how they strike a balance between wine and food, and the answer revealed their commitment—they test new dishes alongside a variety of wines before making any updates to the menu. The kitchen team is also known for generously sharing their experimental creations with the front-of-house staff.
Beyond its culinary and wine offerings, Beyoğlu Şaraphanesi occasionally hosts live music performances, enhancing its already lively atmosphere. The venue also embraces the broader culture of the grape by offering a special raki menu, served with meze and hot dishes—a nod to the spirit’s shared origins with wine.
If you find yourself thinking, “I want to enjoy a great glass of wine and also have a quality meal,” this should be one of the top spots on your list.
Address: Asmalı Mescit, Sofyalı Sk. No:7, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Comedus
The moment you step into Comedus, Pera’s charming sweet wine bar, your eyes are immediately drawn to the deli counter—a true gastronomic wonderland. A vibrant display of cheeses, cured meats, deli treats, and bold flavors greet you as if whispering, “Pick me, pick me!” You can mix and match your favorites to create your own plate, with a minimum order of 50 grams per item.
It brings to mind how I always approach a local eatery: I ask for the “chef’s plate,” throw in a bit of rice—dry, please—choose a couple of women’s thigh meatballs and a few stuffed meat pieces that catch my eye, and never forget the vegetables. That same feeling of personal curation is exactly what you’ll experience at Comedus—only with cheese and deli delights.
For those not closely following the city’s food and drink scene, it’s worth noting that Comedus once had two branches, but the original location has since closed. Today, it continues to bring joy to its loyal fans at its remaining location on General Yazgan Street.
The bar’s story is deeply rooted in passion. Founder Mustafa Kahramanoğlu embarked on a cross-country cheese discovery tour back when Comedus was just an idea. He meticulously traced each variety to its place of origin, learning who made it, how it was crafted, and whether he could bring it to Istanbul to feature on his counter. The result? A selection built on years of dedicated research and taste. And for those craving something warm, there’s also a Frankfurter sausage on the menu.
Once you’ve chosen your platter and settled at your table, the staff brings over a complimentary spread of olives, olive oil, and fresh bread. Your wine soon follows, served under the proper conditions and at just the right temperature. Service is thoughtful and attentive from start to finish.
In operation since 2012, Comedus offers a curated menu of 120 bottled wines, with 30 of them available by the glass. The list is divided into sparkling, white, rosé, and red selections. While imported wines are rare, the bar shines in its focus on local producers. Here’s a tip: don’t limit yourself to the menu. Take a look at the shelves—you might spot a bottle that piques your interest. If you do, you can order it directly. Not every wine in stock is listed on the menu, so keep your eyes open!
You can also purchase wine to take home, and the knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you choose. And for those seeking alternatives to wine, Comedus offers a small selection of craft beers. At one point, the collection included up to 250 local and international varieties, though today it ranges between 10 and 15.
Despite being situated in the heart of touristy Pera, Comedus remains firmly rooted as a neighborhood bar. Inside, you’ll hear friends catching up, locals calling out to familiar faces on the street, and impromptu reunions that begin with, “Oh hey, you’re here too?” This sense of warmth and familiarity is one of the bar’s greatest charms.
The interior only adds to the experience. A blend of metal shelving and historic brick, paired with elegant marble tables and soft lighting, creates an atmosphere of casual sophistication. It’s the kind of place that makes you think, “I’m glad we came here,” the moment you sit down. Don’t miss the thoughtful touches—like the elegantly designed handrails along the stairs to the lower level—which reflect the same attention to detail found in the food and wine. The saying goes that “the devil is in the details,” but at Comedus, so is the care—and you’ll feel it in every sip and every bite.
Address: Asmalı Mescit, General Yazgan Sk. No: 9, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Solera Winery
A dimly lit space, slightly snug stools, low tables, and a cheerful buzz once it gets busy—these elements come together to form the warm, unpretentious soul of Solera Winery. Owned by Süleyman Er and located in Tomtom, Solera (as we’ll call it from here on) is a vibrant and welcoming wine bar that has been making people happy since it first opened in 2011. As one of the oldest establishments in the area, it’s become synonymous with Taksim’s wine scene. And of course, I have some fond personal memories tied to this place.
I’ll never forget the time a group of students from a university gastronomy club organized a wine tasting here to expand their knowledge. My wife Süray and I took them to Solera, and it became one of the first tasting events we ever hosted. Truth be told, I haven’t returned much since then—until recently, that is. Before writing this article, I made sure to revisit the space, reconnect with the staff, and breathe in the atmosphere. Everything I write is grounded in firsthand experience.
Let’s talk about the wine. Solera’s menu is dedicated entirely to local wines—about 90 in total. Reds account for nearly half the list, followed by whites, rosés, and sparkling wines. Impressively, about 40 of these are available by the glass, making it easy for guests to sample different varieties. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s something for every palate.
A standout feature is the “Fruit Wines” section, which includes around ten options such as pomegranate, cherry, blackberry, and blackcurrant. These unique flavors often catch the attention of foreign tourists, adding a fun twist to the tasting experience. If you find something you love, you can also buy bottles to take home, often with a discount of up to 20% off the menu price.
Though it may look compact from the outside, Solera reveals a cozy and intimate interior with walls lined with wine bottles, extending to the back of the space. The food menu is simple but solid, featuring cheese and charcuterie boards, mezze, salads, chicken dishes, pasta, meatballs, and steaks. Still, Solera’s real magic lies in its wines—not just in the taste, but in the stories that accompany them. The staff often shares insights about the origin of each bottle, making the experience feel thoughtful and personal.
Address: Tomtom, Yeni Çarşı Cd. No:44, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
