Michelin-Recommended Restaurants in the Istanbul Old Town in 2025
Istanbul has an amazing food culture thanks to its role as a meeting point of Turkish cuisine with world cuisines. There are thousands of restaurants, cafes, and eateries in this amazing city. Especially in the last years, fine dining restaurants are rising in number. So finally world famous Michelin Guide finally came to Istanbul to rate and recommend the best of the best.
In Michelin Guide 2025, Istanbul has 77 restaurants; only 8 of them won stars but others are also recommended for great meals. for Michelin-starred restaurants in Istanbul, check this article, you’ll love them.
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In this article, we are looking at the Michelin-recommended restaurants in the Old Town. Before we start, check out Istanbul Tourist Pass® which offers 100+ amazing attractions for a single price. The Pass offers many audio-guided self-discovery opportunities to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and many other top Istanbul landmarks. After these amazing discoveries, here are eight great Michelin-recommended restaurants for you to recharge yourself!
Pandeli Restaurant
Pandeli Restaurant is at the heart of the Old Town. Take the stairs to the first floor, which is above the Spice Bazaar, and take in the historically significant and distinctly Turkish design with its blue mosaics on the walls.
The chef steadfastly keeps to classic Turkish recipes, such as roast lamb with rice, grilled aubergine salad, and wood-fired spicy chicken. A true favorite! If you are around Spice Bazaar, make sure you listen to the Istanbul Tourist Pass® Audio Guide and learn about the fantastic history of this bazaar.
OCAK Restaurant
OCAK is a charming restaurant in the Old Town neighborhood with exposed brick walls, mellow lighting, and marble accents. OCAK offers an intimate setting for a unique dining experience. The chef presents a single-set menu that highlights Turkish cuisine with a contemporary twist. From crispy chickpeas to innovative interpretations of traditional dishes, each course is a delightful surprise.
Think deliciously creamy hummus with strawberries, sorrel, and a pomegranate vinaigrette for the chef's take on Turkish tradition. His robust flavor combinations usually manage to find the perfect mix between traditional and modern. Every food served here will stimulate your curiosity.
Lokanta 1741 Restaurant
Through the entrance on the right, opposite Cagaloglu Hamam is this lovely modern restaurant with a charming rooftop patio. It offers traditional Turkish dishes with a contemporary twist, some of which date back to 1741. While occasionally introducing unexpected textures and flavors, the chef never forgets about tradition.
Lokanta 1741 is a contemporary restaurant that pays homage to Turkish culinary traditions. The chef artfully blends classic recipes with modern techniques, resulting in innovative dishes that are both familiar and exciting. While the evening menu offers a refined fine dining experience, diners can also enjoy a more casual meal featuring zesty ceviche and flavorful lamb brochettes. The restaurant's extensive wine cellar provides the perfect complement to the culinary delights.
Deraliye Restaurant
Deraliye is one of the landmark locations of the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood. The striking, lavish decor draws attention right once and pays homage to the Ottoman Empire, just like the food. Do you yearn for spicy rice roasted in a classic tandoori oven with a goose, lamb, or duck kebab? Discovering the savory flavors of Ottoman cuisine can be done here.