75 x The Best Local Restaurants in Istanbul

Explore the best local restaurants in Istanbul. Whether you’re looking for traditional Turkish cuisine or international flavors, our Spotters have discovered the best places for every food lover. For an elegant fine dining experience, try Bord İstanbul, or head to Gaziantepli Tahir Usta for the best kebabs. For traditional Turkish cuisine, check out Bishop Yesilkoy. Discover these and more to enjoy Istanbul’s vibrant culinary scene.

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Our Locals' Favorite Restaurants

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75 Hidden Gems

Filiz Restaurant

Local way of fish and meze

Filiz Restaurant’s kitchen specializes in both seafood and various delectable mezes. Personally, I always start with the cold appetizers...

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Restaurants

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Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 13, 2025

Az Cok Thai

Flavors of Thailand in your plate

At Az Çok Thai, the dishes are inspired by the street food versions of the main dishes, the menu covers all the Thai classics and it's simply delicious.

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Restaurants

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Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 11, 2025

Batard Bomonti

French Bistro in Istanbul

Batard offers a diverse menu showcasing international and Turkish flavors prepared with a modern twist. Their dishes are defined as "Eclectic Cuisine".

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Bars
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Restaurants

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Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 8, 2025

Akıntı Balık

Just one foot from the Bosphorus

Akıntı Balık is a fish restaurant in Istanbul. It has a view over the Bosphorus and that makes it really special. They have good Turkish mezes...

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Restaurants

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Yucel

Babadag

Oct 7, 2025

Brekkie Croissant

Handmade by the racoon

Brekkie Croissant & Cookie is the new breakfast place in Moda, Istanbul. I just love their croissants – they make the dough over 3 days, French style!

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Coffee & tea
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Restaurants
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Snacks

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Yucel

Babadag

Oct 7, 2025

Şeyhmuz Kebap

Traditional way

Şeyhmuz Kebap is a good alternative in Istanbul's Old City area. All the meat there is prepared with a special traditional method from the Mardin region.

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Restaurants

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Yucel

Babadag

Oct 7, 2025

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