Cihangir Sosyal Tesisleri Istanbul
This view made me think
Located just around the corner from Taksim Square, Cihangir is arguably the hippest neighborhood in Istanbul. Lively from morning to night, the streets are lined with colorful cafes, bars and restaurants. The Social Facilities (Cihangir Sosyal Tesisleri) have become the latest member of this dynamic culinary atmosphere. It is a clean, large and budget restaurant run by the municipality. Situated on a plateau above the coastline of the Bosphorus Strait, the restaurant offers an amazing view. What the facility has added to Cihangir’s landscape however is quite the opposite. The Ottoman-themed architecture is no more than a failed attempt.
Today in Turkey, we are witnessing a growing interest in Ottoman history. This nostalgia has decontextualized formerly distinct symbols, ideas, and objects in many ways. The Social Facilities in Cihangir could be one of them. As a neighborhood of artists and writers, elegant cafes, and antiquarian shops Cihangir stands for a liberal ground. At the heart of that there is Social Facilities Restaurant commemorating the past by its existence and design.
I spent some time sitting here, sipping my very well brewed Turkish coffee, getting lost in the beauty of the view and thinking all about this. You may just want to skip all the thought process and just enjoy the good service and fair pricing.
Find your way with 239 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Istanbul
Firuzan Hanım Çiftliği
Longevity Bites
Firuzan Hanım Çiftliği in serves farm-to-table breakfasts with homemade jams, olives, and olive oil. Enjoy this warm, wholesome spot full of love!
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Minoa Pera
A Literary Haven
The café, nestled among the bookshelves, serves as a cosy refuge where one can savour their coffee while getting lost in the pages of a newfound gem.
by
Cemre
Sandal
CRR Concert Hall
Istanbul's Cultural Hub
From internationally acclaimed jazz masters to dynamic dance performances, the CRR Concert Hall consistently offers top-notch entertainment.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kandilli Suna'nin Yeri
Bosphorus's maritime gem
Suna'nin Yeri's commitment to sourcing only the finest seafood is evident in every bite. Everything that is served here is fresh and sourced daily.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Homemade Aromaterapi
Natural and vegan products
"Homemade Aromaterapi" is a small, beautiful shop in Kuzguncuk, Istanbul. Come here for cold-pressed essential oils, cleansers, soaps, toothpaste & more!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kuzguncuk
A neighborhood with unique beauty
"Kuzguncuk" in Istanbul is a uniquely beautiful neighborhood with old colorful houses, mansions and friendly shopkeepers - a sense of connected community.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Chandeliers in Hagia Sophia Mosque
Enlightenment
The "Chandeliers in Istanbul's Hagia Sophia" have their own little recent story which is good to remember whenever you pay a visit... Lighting is key!
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Lil Bake
Lovely spot for a sweet snack
Lil Bake is a small, lovely spot in the heart of Moda, Istanbul. My favorite used to be the pistachio Paris breast, until I tasted their croissants...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Vogue Restaurant Bar
Molecular cocktails & sushi
"Vogue Restaurant Bar" is one of Istanbul's higher end spots. The food is great, but I would recommend the signature (molecular) cocktails. How about...
by
Emre
Kamar
Banyan
High-end Asian fusion in Ortakoy
"Banyan" is my bar/restaurant of choice in Istanbul's Ortaköy for a drink or dinner after work. In their terrace you'll feel as if you're on a ship's deck.
by
Emre
Kamar
Forno Balat
Friendly cafe in the Golden Horn
"Forno Balat" in Istanbul has amazing breakfast -- the best scrambled eggs and open-buffet and homemade jams I've tasted in Turkey.
by
Emre
Kamar
Heading to Istanbul?
239 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 239 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Coffee & tea
Our team loves Istanbul
Get to know our other Spotters from Istanbul
As featured on:
