After you've explored the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of the Ottoman sultans, you'll have a vivid picture of their lives. But what about the dishes that graced their imperial tables? How did these legendary meals truly taste? You don't need a time machine, my friends! At Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant, you can savor authentic Ottoman dishes dating from the 15th to 17th centuries. Owner Necati has meticulously resurrected these palace recipes from historical archives, bringing them to life for you today. For those eager to delve deeper, Deraliye even offers hands-on cooking classes where you can learn to prepare delicacies like honeydew melon, a known favorite of Sultan Mehmet II. Imagine recreating such a dish for your friends back home! A private tour with us can include an exclusive cooking experience here, making your culinary journey truly unforgettable.

“Yeni” means “new” in Turkish, and this restaurant certainly lives up to its name, bringing a fresh, innovative perspective to beloved traditional dishes. Chef Civan Er is a true culinary visionary, masterfully infusing modern touches into classic Anatolian recipes. His menu is a delightful exploration, featuring exquisite creations like dried eggplant, creamy hummus, and vibrant green beans cloaked in yogurt. But if you ask me, you absolutely must try the manti – Turkish ravioli. I confess, I always thought my mum’s manti was the best until I tasted Chef Er’s rendition here (don’t tell her!). So, if you find yourself wandering through the vibrant streets of Beyoglu and a craving strikes, now you know exactly where to find an extraordinary meal. Let your private guide lead you to this modern marvel!

Nestled discreetly within the bustling Spice Bazaar, Pandeli Restaurant is a beautifully decorated historical treasure. Finding its entrance, tucked right next to the main gate inside, feels like discovering a secret. Follow the stunning turquoise-colored Iznik tiles up the stairs, and you'll emerge into a dining room with breathtaking views. Try to secure a table by the window to soak in the mesmerizing Bosphorus panorama and the lively, chaotic energy of Eminonu below. It’s incredible to think this iconic establishment began as a humble 'hole-in-the-wall.' Over the years, it blossomed into one of Turkey's most celebrated restaurants, attracting a galaxy of luminaries from writers and poets to singers and actors. Its most distinguished patron, however, was none other than Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who later became a personal friend of Mr. Pandeli himself. The dishes here carry the wisdom of generations; you'll adore them all. But whatever you do, save room for their legendary Oven-baked Quince in Thick Syrup & Clotted Buffalo Cream. A word to the wise: Pandeli is only open until 18:30 and does not serve alcohol, making it a perfect spot for a luxurious lunch during your private market tour.

As its name suggests, Sunset Grill & Bar offers one of the most spectacular vantage points to witness the sun dip below Istanbul's iconic skyline. Being here during a full moon is an equally breathtaking experience, trust me! Before you even glance at the menu, take a moment to peruse their impressive drinks list, featuring exquisite Turkish wines, fine whiskies, champagnes, and of course, the quintessential Turkish spirit, raki. With a view like this, a glass of raki truly enhances the moment. Thanks to the collaborative genius of Japanese Chef Hiroki Takemura and Turkish Chef Huseyin Aslan, you'll need ample time to navigate the diverse menu. You'll find an exceptional selection of sushi, alongside Turkish and international culinary delights. We confidently declare Sunset to be one of the best sushi restaurants in Istanbul. And once again, remember to leave room for dessert! Our top recommendations are the delicate Sakızlı Muhallebi (milk pudding with mastic) and the rich Kabak Tatlısı (pumpkin dessert with syrup and walnuts). A private evening tour can culminate in this unforgettable dining experience.

At Mikla Restaurant, chef-owner Mehmet Gürs masterfully weaves his unique Turkish-Finnish heritage into a truly groundbreaking menu. His sophisticated approach to modern Anatolian cuisine has set a trend, inspiring many other establishments. As you savor these forward-thinking and utterly delicious dishes, you'll also be captivated by the truly iconic, panoramic views of Istanbul and the majestic Bosphorus. I highly recommend trying the succulent cherrywood-smoked loin of lamb or the exquisite pistachio-crusted lamb chops, and be sure to conclude your meal with a plate of artisanal cheeses sourced from Eastern Turkey. The restaurant’s impressive 40-page wine list is a testament to the remarkable development of Turkish winemaking, offering a fascinating journey through local vineyards. A private reservation here is a must for an unparalleled fine dining experience.

When it comes to truly authentic, local Turkish food, Kadikoy, located on the vibrant Asian side of Istanbul, is the place to be. But heed my advice: don't fill up on the tempting street food just yet! Because when you arrive at Ciya Sofrası, you'll want an empty belly, ready for a feast. Chef-owner Musa Dagdeviren is a culinary anthropologist, curating an incredible menu that features dishes from every corner of Turkey, including long-forgotten recipes of Anatolian cuisine. He is a staunch advocate for seasonal ingredients, meaning every visit offers a new and exciting discovery. Some of our absolute must-try suggestions include the unique sour cherry kebab, the aromatic fresh garlic kebab, the delightful stuffed pumpkin with rice and walnut, the intriguing loquat kebab, and the rich Gaziantep truffle kebab. This is where locals eat, and with a private guide, you'll navigate the bustling Kadikoy market before settling in for this unforgettable, authentic meal.