For those who want to celebrate the most love-filled day of the year at a delicious spot, here’s a list of the most romantic restaurants in Istanbul for Valentine’s Day with enchanting atmospheres and dazzling menus.
Many restaurants in the city are making special preparations for Valentine’s Day. These venues, known for their unique cuisines and distinctive decoration styles, bring together all the fine details to ensure that couples have a delightful time together on this special day. Romantic melodies, an elegant ambiance, delicious menus, and breathtaking view… If you want to spend a wonderful evening with your loved one while enjoying exquisite flavors, check out our list of the most romantic restaurants in Istanbul.
Octo
Octo, one of the rare locations where you can witness both the world-renowned historical landmarks of Istanbul and the breathtaking views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus at the same time, is among the most exquisite venues to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Executive Chef Şafak Erten and his team have meticulously crafted a special Valentine’s Day menu, promising an unforgettable gastronomic feast. This romantic atmosphere will be accompanied by a live performance from Cuban musician Leyanner. For those looking to elevate the night’s rhythm, the festivities can continue at Skull & Bones.
Address: JW Marriott Hotel / Kemankeş Caddesi, No:49, Beyoğlu
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Terrazza Italia
If you are considering celebrating Valentine’s Day with the unique flavors of Italian cuisine, Terrazza Italia is the place to go. Located inside Eataly at Zorlu Center, the venue combines traditional Italian flavors with Turkey’s local cuisine. The special Valentine’s Day menu starts with a pumpkin cream dish featuring fig essence, sour cream, pumpkin cubes, and caramelized pumpkin seeds, followed by a choice of two main courses: beef tenderloin for red meat lovers or sea bass for seafood enthusiasts. As a treat for romantic couples who can’t resist Italian flavors, prosecco, a special Italian drink, is offered as a complimentary pairing.
Address: Zorlu Center / Levazım Mahallesi, Koru Sokak, No:2, Beşiktaş
Tuğra Restaurant
Recognized as one of the most romantic restaurants in Istanbul, Tuğra Restaurant at Çırağan Palace offers an enchanting atmosphere, authentic flavors, a breathtaking Bosphorus view, and exciting surprises for those looking to elevate the romance on Valentine’s Day. With its high ceilings, marble columns, and panoramic Bosphorus view, the restaurant creates an invisible bridge to the past. The menu is crafted using recipes obtained from the palace archives. Under the consultancy of Head Chef Emre İnanır, a special menu is prepared, accompanied by live music and elegantly arranged tables to reflect the occasion. The restaurant also offers specially designed gifts for guests, making them feel even more special.
Address: Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul / Çırağan Caddesi No:32, Beşiktaş
Fenz Istanbul
Located in one of the most beautiful spots on the Bosphorus, in Istinye, Fenz boasts a breathtaking view. This venue, ideal for making Valentine’s Day even more special, offers a romantic atmosphere and a delicious à la carte menu. Fenz consists of three unique spaces: a Lounge, a Fine Dining Restaurant, and a Roof Bar, each providing guests with a visually stunning experience. Under the leadership of Chef Tolga Bozok, the menu features vegetable, meat, and seafood dishes infused with Mediterranean and Asian flavors. For those who believe special occasions should end with a special dessert, the restaurant’s signature “Fenz Kiss” is a must-try.
Address: İstinye Caddesi, 12/1 A, Sarıyer
Restaurant Modern
Located within Turkey’s modern and contemporary art museum, Istanbul Modern, Restaurant Modern offers guests a selection of the finest seasonal dishes from Mediterranean and contemporary Turkish cuisine, enriched with its unique touch. Overlooking the Historical Peninsula and the stunning Bosphorus, the restaurant has prepared a special program for Valentine’s Day. Led by Executive Chef Tuğçe Mirza Canik, the team has curated a menu featuring a welcome cocktail, chestnut porcini soup, polenta cake, tiftik beef ribs wrapped in vine leaves, and sea bass for seafood lovers. For dessert, the tangerine-infused chocolate cream is highly recommended. The special Valentine’s Day event also includes a cello performance by Barış Terkeşli and a DJ set.
Address: Istanbul Modern / Tophane İskele Caddesi No:1/1, Beyoğlu
Izaka Terrace
As one of Istanbul’s most prestigious gastronomic destinations, Izaka Terrace invites couples to experience an unforgettable evening with the city’s most exclusive flavors. For Valentine’s Day, Chef Serhat Eliçora has created a special menu that perfectly complements the romantic setting, where the city lights add to the ambiance. The Valentine’s Day menu begins with a cold appetizer featuring tuna tataki, wasabi cream, tobiko, and Vietnamese sauce. This is followed by a warm starter of quail-stuffed cannelloni with wild mushroom sauté and kobayaki sauce. The main course offers two different options: one for red meat lovers and another for seafood enthusiasts. The evening begins with a signature welcome cocktail crafted specially for this occasion.
Address: CVK Park Bosphorus / İnönü Caddesi No:8, Beyoğlu
Vogue Restaurant
Offering a modern, elegant, and sophisticated ambiance with a view of Dolmabahçe Palace and the Bosphorus, Vogue Restaurant promises an unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience. The venue’s rich menu includes everything from sashimi and sushi to pasta and Turkish classics. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and Gault & Millau Istanbul, Vogue also features a lounge area, a cocktail bar with a stunning Bosphorus view, and a sushi station. Adding a unique touch to its decor, the restaurant showcases iconic covers from Vogue Magazine’s archives on its walls.
Address: BJK Plaza Süleyman Seba Caddesi No:48, Beşiktaş
Lacivert Restaurant
As one of Istanbul’s most iconic restaurants, Lacivert continues to honor the Bosphorus’ rich heritage. Located on the Asian side near the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, this romantic venue is also accessible by boat. Guests arriving from the European side can take advantage of Lacivert’s complimentary boat service from Rumeli Hisarı. The restaurant has prepared a special Valentine’s Day menu featuring exquisite starters and hot shareable plates. For the main course, guests can choose between bonfile çökertme or chargrilled seabream. The special Valentine’s Day dessert combines chestnut purée, caramelized almonds, crème pâtissière, white chocolate, and wild berries for a delicate finishing touch.
Address: Anadolu Hisarı / Körfez Caddesi, 57/A, Beykoz
Bonus: For Those Who Wants a Romantic Getaway!
Od Urla
If you are considering celebrating Valentine’s Day away from the city’s chaos, Od Urla is a fantastic alternative! You can also stay at Od Misafirhane, located in the most tranquil part of the property. Every dish on the menu is designed in harmony with nature, inspired by the cultural heritage of the Aegean region. The venue has received both a Michelin star and a green star for its sustainability efforts.
Address: Urla / Rüstem, Süt Pınarı Mevkii, 2018/9 Sokak No:28
