Savouring Scenic Lunches in Istanbul: Dining with a View

Istanbul, a city as vibrant and diverse as its culinary scene, offers countless dining experiences that blend taste and sight into a sensory feast. Here, meals are not simply about satiating your hunger, but rather, they’re a celebration of the city’s rich culinary heritage and breathtaking scenery. If you’re planning to enjoy a delicious lunch with a side of stunning views, here are a few spots in Istanbul that are sure to satisfy both your palate and your wanderlust.

7 Hills Restaurant, Sultanahmet
Located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic district, the 7 Hills Restaurant offers a panoramic view of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Topkapi Palace, not to mention the distant silhouette of the Asian side and the charming Princes’ Islands. While enjoying these sights, you can indulge in a wide array of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, including mezes, kebabs, and fresh seafood.

Leb-i-Derya, Beyoğlu
Perched on a rooftop in the vibrant district of Beyoğlu, Leb-i-Derya provides a dazzling vista of the Bosphorus and the city skyline. The restaurant’s eclectic menu combines traditional Turkish cuisine with modern international influences, ensuring a delightful culinary journey. Don’t forget to try their unique cocktails!

Sunset Grill & Bar, Ulus
As the name suggests, Sunset Grill & Bar offers magnificent views of the setting sun over the Bosphorus. But don’t let the name deceive you; their lunch offerings are equally excellent. The restaurant specializes in international cuisine, with an impressive sushi bar and a rich variety of grilled dishes.

Vogue Restaurant, Beşiktaş
Vogue Restaurant is renowned for its impressive views of the Bosphorus Bridge and the historic skyline of Istanbul. The elegant venue offers a diverse menu, with an emphasis on world cuisine and a fantastic selection of wines. A lunch at Vogue is a stylish affair that combines the best of culinary and visual arts.

Camlica Tower Restaurant, Çamlıca
Rising above the cityscape, the Camlica Tower Restaurant promises an unparalleled dining experience. The tower hosts a revolving restaurant that provides a 360-degree view of Istanbul. As the landscape gently changes with the restaurant’s rotation, you can savour a selection of Turkish and international cuisine. The lunch here is more than a meal; it’s an event that combines gastronomy with the awe-inspiring panorama of a city that straddles two continents.

Mikla, Pera
Located on the roof of the Marmara Pera Hotel, Mikla offers a fusion of Turkish and Scandinavian cuisine in a chic and modern setting. The highlight here, apart from its creative menu crafted by celebrated Chef Mehmet Gürs, is the stunning vista of Istanbul, with the Golden Horn, Old City, and the Bosphorus laid out before you. The elegant atmosphere combined with a panoramic view makes it a truly special place for lunch.

Banyan, Ortaköy
Nestled in the heart of Ortaköy, Banyan is not just a restaurant, but a food lover’s retreat. Offering a breathtaking view of the Bosphorus Bridge, it provides a unique pan-Asian culinary experience with influences from various cuisines. From sushi to satay, every dish here is a burst of flavors. Enjoying a leisurely lunch at Banyan means feasting on delicious food while appreciating one of the city’s most picturesque landscapes.

These venues stand out not just for their food, but also for the stories they tell of Istanbul – a city of stunning vistas and delightful flavours. Whether it’s a luxurious dining experience or a relaxed rooftop lunch, these locations cater to every taste. So, take a break from exploring Istanbul’s bustling streets and ascend to these culinary vantage points for a lunch that you’ll remember for both its taste and the breathtaking views.