Anatolian Cuisine is much more than kebab. It is so rich and diverse so it has no boundaries. Yeni Lokanta is a good spot to start exploring in Istanbul. It's one of my favorite destinations every time I get homesick and miss my mom's food. The menu consists of variations traditional Anatolian gems with innovative interpretations.
At lunch time it's more like a tradesman restaurant where you can taste traditional pot meals, but when dinnertime comes, it turns into a fusion restaurant.
They serve bowls of starters, and my favorite one was the green beans with burnt yoghurt from Denizli, my hometown, so it was exceptionally good to me.
If you asked me to pick just one meal to eat for the rest of my life, I would definitely choose Kısır, without thinking about it for a second. Kısır is bulghur salad roughly speaking, but trust me, it's much more than that. The bulgur salad they serve in Yeni Lokanta with sour cherries was even better than traditional kısır. They use the cherries to add a mild sourness to it. It made my day.
Their toasted sourdough bread and smoked butter are both homemade.
If you are undecided among the options, the tasting menu for 2 is the best option! And I do have to note that prices are a little bit high, but it's worth it.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Istanbul guide.
Filiz Restaurant’s kitchen specializes in both seafood and various delectable mezes. Personally, I always start with the cold appetizers...
By
Frankestayn Kitabevi celebrates gender, feminism, and the voice of marginalized authors and it's a hidden gem in the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoglu.
By
Hasanpaşa Gashouse, which has been providing the Kadıköy District for 130 years with gas, has finally opened as a cultural centre and a museum...
By
The real highlight of Bohem's Coffee wasn't just its ambiance or décor—it was the genuine warmth of the owner.
By
Kadıköy-Moda Tramway operates as a clockwise circular route, departs from a point close to Kadıköy Pier, and goes to Moda Street.
By
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.
By
This is a place where creativity and storytelling meet. As the writer Orhan Pamuk says, ‘I will build a museum, and its catalogue will be a novel’.
By
Batard offers a diverse menu showcasing international and Turkish flavors prepared with a modern twist. Their dishes are defined as "Eclectic Cuisine".
By
Cafe Naftalin K in Istanbul's Balat is a spot I love going with friends after photography tours in the area. It's so cozy - its stove is a lifesaver!
By
Viktor Levi Wine House in Kadıköy, Istanbul, is like a hidden gem. I like going there when I need to drink good wine at a worthwhile price...
By
Galata Simitçisi close to Istanbul's Karaköy used to be part of my daily routine, and I still go to to have a simit at this traditional bakery...
By
Rahmi M. Koç Museum Istanbul has such items as vintage cars, sailboats, old trams, trains, productions units, warplanes and more! I also like its garden.
By
236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters