14 Best Restaurants in Turkey for Dinner

Turkey offers a dining experience like no other, filled with a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. From the vibrant streets of Istanbul to the serene landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkish cuisine is a unique blend of history, culture, and innovation, with each dish telling a story. To savor the best of it, consider dining at renowned spots like the upscale Mikla in Istanbul or the charming Topdeck Cave Restaurant in Cappadocia. Whether you seek a modern twist at Neolokal or a top-notch steak at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, Turkey’s culinary scene promises an unforgettable experience.

In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best restaurants in Turkey for dinner across Turkey that promise to make your dinner unforgettable.

1. Mikla

Imagine sitting atop a high-rise in Istanbul, drinking coffee as you gaze at the breathtaking Bosphorus skyline. Welcome to Mikla, a restaurant that perfectly blends modern Turkish cuisine with a Scandinavian touch.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Unparalleled rooftop views of Istanbul
• A menu crafted by Chef Mehmet Gürs, fusing Turkish heritage with modern techniques
• Dishes like lamb loin with smoked eggplant and slow-cooked octopus

If you’re looking for a romantic, upscale dinner with an unbeatable atmosphere, Mikla is the place to be.

Location: İstanbul, Türkiye

2. Neolokal

Neolokal is not just a restaurant; it’s a journey through Turkey’s rich culinary history. Every dish pays homage to traditional Anatolian flavors while embracing contemporary techniques.

What Makes It Special?

• Located in the heart of Istanbul’s old city with mesmerizing Golden Horn views
• Sustainable and locally sourced ingredients
• Signature dishes like lamb ravioli and burnt wheat soup

Each plate tells a story of nostalgia and reinvention, making Neolokal a must-visit for food lovers.

Location: İstanbul, Türkiye

3. Nusr-Et Steakhouse Etiler

You’ve probably heard of the internet sensation Salt Bae (Nusret Gökçe), and this is where his magic happens. Nusr-Et Steakhouse is where flavor meets theatrical dining.

Why Dine Here?

• Premium-quality meats, cooked to perfection
• A vibrant atmosphere where chefs entertain with their signature meat-cutting style
• Frequent visits by celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and David Beckham

If you’re a steak lover, this experience is worth every bite.

Location: İstanbul, Türkiye

4. Ziggy Café & Restaurant

Nestled in the fairy-tale landscape of Cappadocia, Ziggy Café & Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers a warm, intimate setting inside a charming stone house.

What Makes It Magical?

• A cozy, candlelit atmosphere inside an authentic Cappadocian cave
• A diverse menu featuring both Turkish and Mediterranean dishes
• Specialties like beef with caramelized onions and local mezes

This restaurant is perfect for a quiet, unforgettable evening with a loved one.

Location: Nevşehir, Türkiye

5. Topdeck Cave Restaurant

Another Cappadocia treasure, Topdeck Cave Restaurant offers a genuine Turkish home-style dining experience inside a family-run cave eatery.

Why You Should Go:

• An authentic, intimate setting with only a handful of tables
• A menu filled with homemade Turkish delights like lamb stew and hummus
• The hospitality of the owners, makes you feel like part of the family

If you crave a heartfelt, home-cooked meal in a unique atmosphere, this is the spot for you.

Location: Nevşehir, Türkiye

6. Seten Restaurant

For those looking to taste the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, Seten Restaurant in Cappadocia is a dream come true.

Highlights:

• A sophisticated menu featuring traditional Ottoman recipes with a modern twist
• Outdoor terrace seating with views of Cappadocia’s mesmerizing rock formations
• Signature dishes like testi kebab (slow-cooked meat in a clay pot)

Seten is the ideal place for history lovers and fine dining enthusiasts.

Location: Nevşehir, Türkiye

7. 7 Mehmet

Located in Antalya, 7 Mehmet is one of Turkey’s oldest and most respected restaurants, known for blending traditional flavors with a modern touch.

Why It Stands Out:

• Fresh seafood, grilled meats, and delectable desserts
• A stunning seaside location with panoramic views
• Local specialties like tandoori lamb and tahini pumpkin dessert

If you want to taste the soul of Antalya’s cuisine, 7 Mehmet is a must-visit.

Location: Antalya, Türkiye

8. Seraser Fine Dining

When it comes to elegance and refinement, Seraser Fine Dining in Antalya sets the gold standard.

What to Expect:

• An opulent ambiance with chandeliers
• A Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring lobster, duck, and truffle-infused dishes
• Impeccable service and a soft drinks list that complements every meal

For a luxurious evening filled with gourmet delights, Seraser is the perfect choice.

Location: Antalya, Türkiye

9. Vanilla Lounge

Nestled in the heart of Antalya’s old town, Vanilla Lounge is where modern European flavors meet the heartwarming soul of Turkish cuisine. The ambiance is chic yet cozy, perfect for a romantic dinner or an intimate celebration.

Why You’ll Love It:

• A fusion menu blending international flavors with Turkish ingredients
• Must-try dishes like duck confit with pomegranate glaze and truffle risotto
• An extensive soft drinks selection to complement every bite

Vanilla Lounge is for those who crave sophistication with a touch of homey warmth.

Location: Antalya, Türkiye

10. Orfoz

If you dream of a dinner where fresh seafood meets culinary artistry, Orfoz in Bodrum is your sanctuary. Every dish is crafted with passion and precision, letting the flavors of the sea shine through.

What Makes It Special?

• An intimate setting with limited tables, ensuring a personalized dining experience
• A tasting menu featuring oysters, sea urchins, and slow-cooked octopus
• An impeccable soft drinks pairing for every course

Orfoz isn’t just a seafood restaurant; it’s a sensory adventure that will linger on your taste buds forever.

Location: Muğla, Türkiye

11. Kısmet Lokantası

If you want to eat where the locals eat, head straight to Kısmet Lokantası in Izmir. This humble, no-frills eatery serves home-cooked Turkish meals that wrap you in a warm embrace.

Why You Should Go:

• Authentic, home-style dishes cooked with love
• Famous for its slow-cooked lamb stew and buttery rice pilaf
• A place where locals gather, creating an atmosphere that feels like family

Kısmet Lokantası is a reminder that sometimes, the most unforgettable meals come from the simplest places.

Location: Muğla, Türkiye

12. Deniz Restaurant

Aegean seafood at its absolute finest—that’s what Deniz Restaurant in Izmir is all about. Here, the catch of the day is transformed into culinary masterpieces, each bite infused with the freshness of the sea.

What Makes It the Best?

• Decades of experience in serving top-quality seafood
• Signature dishes like grilled sea bass, calamari, and meze platters
• A charming seaside location that makes every meal feel special

For seafood lovers, Deniz Restaurant is a place to fall in love, again and again.

Location: Muğla, Türkiye

13. Ristorante Pizzeria Venedik

Sometimes, your heart craves Italy, and when that happens in Turkey, Ristorante Pizzeria Venedik is the answer. This charming Italian restaurant in Izmir brings the true essence of Italy with its handcrafted pizzas and creamy pasta.

Why You’ll Feel Like You’re in Rome:

• Wood-fired pizzas with crispy, airy crusts
• Freshly made pasta, risotto, and homemade tiramisu
• A warm, inviting ambiance with classic Italian charm

It’s the perfect spot when you want to taste la dolce vita in Turkey.

Location: Konak, Türkiye

14. Od Urla

If nature, sustainability, and pure flavors are what you seek, Od Urla is your sanctuary. This farm-to-table restaurant near Izmir takes pride in using seasonal, organic ingredients, sourced right from their gardens.

Why It’s an Experience Like No Other:

• Every dish is inspired by nature, changing with the seasons
• Signature dishes like grilled lamb with rosemary and handpicked wild greens
• A serene outdoor setting surrounded by olive trees and vineyards

Od Urla is where food is poetry, and every bite tells a story of the land.

Location: İzmir, Türkiye

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What makes Turkish cuisine unique?

   Turkish cuisine is a beautiful fusion of diverse regional flavors, with influences from the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean. The combination of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and time-honored cooking methods makes it truly one-of-a-kind. From savory kebabs to rich mezes and delightful desserts like baklava, every meal is an adventure for the taste buds.

2. What are the best restaurants for a fine dining experience in Turkey?

   For a luxurious dining experience, Mikla and Seraser Fine Dining are top choices, offering exceptional food and service in stunning settings. Neolokal also stands out for its innovative approach to modern Turkish cuisine, blending tradition with contemporary twists.

3. Are there any must-visit restaurants in Istanbul?

   Istanbul is home to many renowned restaurants, including the famous Mikla, which offers a stunning view of the city and a creative menu, and Ziggy Café & Restaurant, which is perfect for those seeking a cozy yet elegant dining experience. Nusr-Et Steakhouse is also a must for steak lovers.

4. Which restaurants offer the best traditional Turkish food?

   For a taste of authentic Turkish flavors, head to 7 Mehmet in Antalya or Seten Restaurant in Cappadocia. Both serve classic Turkish dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients that bring the true essence of Turkish cuisine to your plate.

5. What makes the Topdeck Cave Restaurant in Cappadocia unique?

   Topdeck Cave Restaurant offers a truly unique dining experience. Located inside a cave in the picturesque region of Cappadocia, it blends local flavors with a cozy, intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a memorable dinner with a view.

6. Are there any restaurants with a view in Turkey?

   Absolutely! Mikla in Istanbul provides a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline, while Topdeck Cave Restaurant in Cappadocia offers a scenic view of the region’s fairy chimneys. These locations pair stunning views with delectable meals, offering the best of both worlds.

7. What are some of the best restaurants for seafood in Turkey?

   If you’re in the mood for seafood, Ziggy Café & Restaurant in Istanbul and coastal restaurants in Izmir offer fresh catches of the day. The seafood in Turkey is unparalleled, thanks to its proximity to the Mediterranean and Aegean seas.