If you are in Istanbul and have something to celebrate and you want to give yourselves a treat, Iskele fish restaurant will be a good choice.
Iskele restaurant is located on an old wharf just under the second Bosphorus bridge which will make you really feel like you're at sea.
The menu is classic, starting with cold mezes (marinated seabass, stuffed mussels are my favorite) continuing with hot mezes or appetizers. They make great calamari, fried or grilled.
As for the main course, of course you have to ask the waiter's advice depending on the season. If they have fresh Lagos (white grouper) fish, I think you should give it a try. Many people find small fish tastier. It is suggested here because small fish like goatfish are fried to perfection. You can really smell and taste the fish.
As you can see, the menu is classic and not creative. However, every type of food served is top notch.
Finally, they serve small portions of different local desserts. But instead, you can ask for chocolate souffle, which is excellent.
The service is great with good English speaking waiters. Since Iskele is popular amongst celebrities and business people, reservation is highly required.
It is fairly expensive, but still it is a good option for a special night out.
Please make sure that you select your wine from the menu and check the price
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Müz Botanik & Kahve" in Istanbul is a plant shop, workshop space, cafe & design store in Istanbul. Just the name 'muse' was enough for me to fall in love.
by
"Bord İstanbul" is one of the city's best restaurants and it's right inside the naval museum. Everything's fresh, organic and seasonal here...
by
"Helvetia" in Asmalimescit, Beyoglu, Istanbul is one of my favorite spots to have quick lunch. I really like the cozy communal feeling of this place...
by
"Craft Beer Lab" in Istanbul is a brand new pub with a big beautiful garden and a huge selection of beers. I know where I'll be brining my friends now!
by
"Sobremesa Coffee" in Istanbul's Besiktas: great for meeting friends w/ coffee or working on the laptop. Its name is a Spanish word which is a perfect fit!
by
"Nail Kitabevi & Cafe" in Istanbul is in a historical baroque, rococo-style building. I come here for peace of mind and a nice cup of coffee with my book!
by
"Dem Kadıköy" is cheesecake heaven in Istanbul. They've got more than 35 different types (!) and all of them are inspired by some Japanese tea on the menu.
by
"Firuze İKSV" in Istanbul is a beautiful place for meze, cocktail and raki with a modern twist. It has a stunning view over the Golden Horn - how lovely!
by
"Maezae" is my must-visit place whenever I am in Istanbul's Karakoy. I can just spend hours and hours in this lovely, inspiring local design store...
by
"Jacqueline Cookies" Istanbul: my favorite cookies, period, even though they're much more American than Turkish. Try the Extra Dark Chocolate & Pecan Nut.
by
"Misk" is one of my favorite places in Istanbul -- their beautiful flower arrangements and sense of decoration really pushes their moniker 'floral cafe'.
by
"Cuma Cafe" is my favorite spot for a long brunch or coffee & dessert in Istanbul. Their scrambled eggs w/ goat cheese on sourdough toast is a must-taste.
by
236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 236 Insider Tips