Primitif Birahane Istanbul
Beer garden experience
Primitif Beerhall is located in the garden of Riva's Moda Boutique Hotel on Moda Sahil but if you don't check the spot on the map, you might miss it, since Primitif has a signboard that looks like it was hand-carved on stone.
With its large garden and lovely ambiance, Primitif offers an experience kind of similar to "biergartens" in Germany. They even have pretzels on the menu - not something usual for the menus in Istanbul. There is something here you wouldn't find in Germany though: the cats of Istanbul accompanying you at your table, especially if you are eating their favorites, like the crazy chicken burger :).
The food menu is rather limited but adequate, consisting mainly of the burgers and snacks such as pretzels, mac & cheese balls, mozzarella waffles, onion rings and hot dogs. However, the beer menu is large; you can find both international and local craft beers here. I haven't tried them all, but the 3 Kafadar American was quite delicious (please note that I am not a beer fan though:)). The cocktail menu is simple, yet satisfying; I guess everyone can find something to their taste. If you are into fresh cocktails like me, you can try the Basil. Check out their menu on the Instagram page @primitifbirahane.
Primitif is quite lively, especially on the weekends, and gets busier towards the evening. They don't take reservations but it is worth trying for the variety of beers and the atmosphere.
About this spot
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Istanbul
Müz Botanik & Kahve
Muses dancing all around
"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
Arzu
Damli
Bord İstanbul
Fine dining at the museum
"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
Arzu
Damli
Helvetia
Just like your mum's cooking
"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
Arzu
Damli
Craft Beer Lab
Fancy a pint?
"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
Seyda
Vardar
Sobremesa Coffee
Mi casa es tu casa
"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
Seyda
Vardar
Nail Kitabevi & Cafe
Bookstore around the corner
"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
Vildan
Ay
Dem Kadıköy
Cheesecake heaven
"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
Vildan
Ay
Firuze İKSV
Sunset dinner at the Golden Horn
"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
Arzu
Damli
Maezae
Local design store
"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
Seyda
Vardar
Jacqueline Cookies
The best cookies I've ever had
"Jacqueline Cookies" Istanbul: my favorite cookies, period, even though they're much more American than Turkish. Try the Extra Dark Chocolate & Pecan Nut.
by
Vildan
Ay
Misk
A lovely taste experience in a flower garden
"Misk" is one of my favorite places in Istanbul -- their beautiful flower arrangements and sense of decoration really pushes their moniker 'floral cafe'.
by
Arzu
Damli
Cuma Cafe
See you at brunch!
"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
Arzu
Damli
Heading to Istanbul?
236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Istanbul?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 236 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 Bars
Our team loves Istanbul
Get to know our other Spotters from Istanbul
As featured on:
