"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...

"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.

"Forno Balat" in Istanbul has amazing breakfast -- the best scrambled eggs and open-buffet and homemade jams I've tasted in Turkey.

"İskele Restaurant" is great for when you're in Istanbul and have something to celebrate & want to give yourself a treat. I recommend the fresh Lagos fish.

Visiting "Sabancı Museum" is the first thing I would do if I only had the time to do one thing in Istanbul. A museum, permanent collections, exhibitions...

"Trattoria Serenzo" is one of my favorite places in Istanbul. We visit this Italian seafood restaurant with my wife frequently. Protip: it also has pork...

"Jumba Künefe" in Istanbul makes the best künefe. I like their different styles and how they serve it with milk and fruits... Good for some freshness!

"Ortaköy Kahvaltı Evi" is my favorite place in this neighborhood of Istanbul. Like the name suggests, this restaurant is famous for its breakfast...