Zeynep Ozortac

Istanbul

Spotter since 2023

About me

Engineer by degree, HR professional by heart, and artist by soul. I believe life is best lived in layers—some structured, some spontaneous, all meaningful.

I’m the founder of ZepArt, a brand born from late-night sketches, street art inspiration, and a love for self-expression. Creativity is my compass, whether I’m curating designs or wandering through Istanbul’s hidden corners.

You’ll often find me walking by the Bosphorus with my lovely dog, chasing moonrises, or admiring murals tucked into alleyways. I’m drawn to places that feel alive—where nature, art, and people flow together.

As I grow older, I see my life as a canvas—painted with serendipity, stories, and the joy of simple pleasures. And I’m always adding new colors.

Why Istanbul?

Because it’s a city full of contrasts that somehow work perfectly together. Old and new, calm and chaos, Europe and Asia—it’s all here, flowing side by side.

Istanbul holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I grew up, where I had my many firsts. It’s a city that’s always moving, always changing, yet somehow feels like home.

What makes it magical? The hidden gems, the mix of cultures and flavors, the stunning views that surprise you around every corner. It’s a city where concept stores and creative studios pop up beside centuries-old buildings, and every neighborhood feels like its own little universe.

That beautiful chaos? It’s not a flaw—it’s the heartbeat of Istanbul.
If you’re curious and love variety, this city will keep you inspired. From stunning architecture and delicious food to warm welcoming people, Istanbul is full of energy and soul. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave -  a mosaic of experiences. A world within a city.

My spots (32)

Napoli Gourmet Nisantasi

Hopping to Naples

When you settle down you are greeted with a complimentary drink. Then I recommend trying their burrata as a starter, and mindblowing tiramisu as dessert.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 24, 2025

Kamondo Merdivenleri

Stairs from Constantinople

Despite the passage of time they continue to stand proudly, showing the spirit of Istanbul and its ability to embrace the old while welcoming the new.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 21, 2025

Poltory Bookstore

Unique bookstore in Çukurcuma

What's even more impressive is that the Tatar and Ukranian owners of Poltory are writers themselves. You can feel the passion for literature in every nook.

002-building
Art & culture
020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 21, 2025

Life Foto Studio

Korean Playtime in Istanbul

Life Foto Studio in Moda turns an ordinary day into playful memories! Enter the Korean-style photo booths, pick your favorites tools, strike a pose, and let loose.

017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 17, 2025

Frankestayn Kitabevi

Empowering pages in Beyoglu

Frankestayn Kitabevi celebrates gender, feminism, and the voice of marginalized authors and it's a hidden gem in the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoglu.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 13, 2025

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...

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 13, 2025

Moda Nostalgia Tramvay

Ride On The Asian Side

Kadıköy-Moda Tramway operates as a clockwise circular route, departs from a point close to Kadıköy Pier, and goes to Moda Street.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 11, 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.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Oct 11, 2025

Where to find me

Zeynep is not the only one

Meet our other Spotters from Istanbul

Join us as a Spotter today!

Be part of a global community of 498 people who love their city!

Write about everything you 🤍 but skip touristic highlights

Show the hearth and soul of the place you call home

Made with the 💚 of 498 Spotters.
Filters
Spotters categories
Price
Price