Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Istanbul

In a city where centuries of flavor echo through every street corner, Istanbul's gastronomic rise to the Michelin stage feels both long overdue and right on time. From the poetic minimalism of Araka to the boundary-blurring creativity at Arkestra and the bold Anatolian narratives of Fatih Tutak, the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants are rewriting what fine dining means in Turkey. This isn’t just about stars—it’s about vision, terroir, and a new culinary language being spoken fluently across open kitchens and chef’s counters from Mikla’s skyline to Neolokal’s neo-Anatolian table.

Here’s a guide to Istanbul’s Michelin-starred restaurants, featuring their signature dishes, unique concepts, and essential details.

Araka’s philosophy centers around seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, brought to life with innovative techniques. Situated in Sarıyer, this restaurant is a heaven for nature-inspired gastronomy lovers. Chef Zeynep Pınar Taşdemir’s menu highlights vegetables and herbs in an elegant yet uncomplicated way.

Araka offers a cozy yet sophisticated dining environment, with soft lighting and minimalist decor that reflect its connection to nature. Its relaxed yet refined atmosphere perfectly complements the vibrant flavors of its dishes, making it a favorite destination for those seeking a refreshing culinary experience.

Kapalı Bakkal, No: 8 Yeniköy, Istanbul, Turkey

Image: Araka

At Michelin-starred Arkestra, Chef Cenk Debensason brings together flavors from various regions, drawing inspiration from Modern European cuisine. Using French cooking techniques as a foundation, he creates refined, seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients.

The restaurant boasts a lively, grand, yet relaxed atmosphere with a spacious dining hall. From wooden wall panels to Art Deco chandeliers, every detail of the interior is designed to complement the exquisite flavors presented on the plates.

Dilhayat No: 28, Etiler, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Image: Arkestra

Mikla, helmed by Chef Mehmet Gürs, is an iconic Istanbul restaurant known for its "New Anatolian Kitchen." This rooftop venue blends traditional Anatolian flavors with modern techniques, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.

Mikla’s elegant rooftop setting makes it an unforgettable dining destination. As the sun sets over Istanbul, the restaurant's panoramic views provide the perfect backdrop for savoring dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

The Marmara Pera Hotel, Beyoglu, Istanbul

Image: Mikla

Located in the Salt Galata building, Neolokal is a culinary tribute to Turkey’s heritage. Chef Maksut Aşkar emphasizes sustainability and zero waste, earning the restaurant a prestigious Green Star from Michelin. With its striking interior and commitment to tradition, Neolokal balances modern aesthetics with a nostalgic touch.

The restaurant's focus on ethical practices adds depth to its already impressive culinary offerings, making it a must-visit for conscious diners.

Salt Galata, Karaköy, Istanbul

Image: Neolokal

Nicole offers a refined take on Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on French techniques and Turkish flavors. Set in a historic building in Beyoğlu, this restaurant features an intimate dining space and a carefully crafted menu by Chef Serkan Aksoy.

Nicole’s charming terrace offers sweeping views of Istanbul, adding an extra layer of magic to your dining experience. The thoughtful service and expertly curated wine pairings ensure that every detail of your visit is unforgettable.

Tomtom Kaptan, No: 18 Beyoglu, Istanbul

Image: Nicole

A standout for Japanese cuisine, Sankai by Nagaya brings Michelin-starred Japanese dining to Istanbul. With sushi and teppanyaki crafted to perfection, this restaurant combines Japanese precision with local ingredients. An extensive sushi and teppanyaki menu, with a focus on premium ingredients and artistic presentation. 

Bebek, Cevdet Paşa No: 34 Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Image: Sankai by Nagaya

As Istanbul’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant, TURK Fatih Tutak redefines Turkish cuisine with a contemporary flair. Chef Fatih Tutak crafts dishes that tell stories of Turkey’s culinary traditions, elevated with modern techniques and presentation. A multi-course tasting menu that highlights local and seasonal ingredients in innovative forms.

Yeniyol No: 2 Şişli, Istanbul

Image: Turk Fatih Tutak

If you'd like to check top penthouses in Istanbul while you visit Michelen restaurants, you can browse our curation below: