Top 10 Fish Restaurants in Istanbul

Balıkçı Sabahattin is the kind of place where time slows down. The wooden interior creaks slightly underfoot, and the white tablecloths, antique photographs, and flickering candlelight create an atmosphere that feels like stepping into another era. But it’s not just about ambiance — the food here has a loyal following among locals, expats, and in-the-know tourists.

Start with a selection of meze — the eggplant salad and marinated anchovies (hamsi marin) are local favorites. For the main course, opt for the grilled sea bass (levrek) or sea bream (çipura), prepared with just the right amount of lemon and olive oil. If it’s in season, don’t miss the bluefish (lüfer) — a prized delicacy in Istanbul.

Make a reservation, especially in the evenings. The terrace is particularly lovely in summer, offering a glimpse of the Marmara Sea beyond the rooftops of Sultanahmet. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet dinner after a day exploring the old city.

There’s nothing flashy about this place. No view of the Bosphorus, no Instagram-worthy décor — just a small dining room filled with the smell of grilled fish and the quiet hum of conversation. It’s where generations of Istanbulites have come for no-nonsense seafood, expertly prepared and served with pride.

The grilled bonito (palamut) in autumn is legendary, but you really can’t go wrong with their classic fried anchovies (hamsi tava) or grilled mullet (barbun). Portions are generous, and everything is ultra-fresh. Pair it with a side of buttery rice pilaf and a simple shepherd’s salad (çoban salatası) for a perfect meal.

Located just a few minutes from the Galata Bridge, this is a great lunch stop while exploring Karaköy’s art galleries and cafés. Prices are reasonable, and the service is honest and quick — exactly what you’d expect from a place that’s been perfecting its craft for over a century.

Kıyı is the kind of restaurant where you might spot Turkish celebrities, politicians, or business moguls dining discreetly. But the real star here is the food — consistently high-quality, fresh, and served with attention to detail. The restaurant’s waterfront location provides a tranquil backdrop, perfect for long, leisurely dinners.

Start with a cold meze platter: sea beans (deniz börülcesi), tarama (fish roe dip), and octopus salad are all standouts. For the main dish, the grilled bluefish (lüfer) is a house specialty when in season (especially October to December). You can also try their grilled jumbo shrimp or oven-baked turbot (kalkan), both known for their subtle, clean flavors.

Make sure to book a table in advance — preferably one by the windows or on the terrace if weather permits. Kıyı is slightly more expensive than most fish restaurants, but it’s an experience worth the splurge for a special evening. A great option if you’re celebrating an anniversary or just want to indulge in Istanbul’s high-end culinary scene.

Perched right on the waterfront, Sur Balık boasts an open terrace with some of the best views in the city — especially magical at sunset. The ambiance is upscale yet inviting, with a mix of locals, tourists, and business diners. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a group celebration with friends.

Sur Balık puts a slightly creative spin on its menu without straying too far from tradition. Try the calamari stuffed with cheese and herbs, grilled octopus, or the sea bass en papillote (kağıtta levrek). They also have an excellent seafood casserole (balık güveç) — rich, tomato-based, and baked to perfection.

Try to go just before sunset to catch the golden-hour glow on the Bosphorus — and stay for the nighttime lights of the bridge and boats. While prices are on the higher side, the setting and quality of food make it worth it. Reservations are a must, especially on weekends.

Eleos isn’t just a restaurant — it’s an experience. The moment you walk in, you’re offered a complimentary glass of rakı or ouzo, followed by a tray of meze to choose from. With a light, airy terrace overlooking the Bosphorus and a soundtrack of gentle Greek music, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and enjoy.

Start with fava (mashed broad beans), grilled octopus, and their signature Aegean greens. The fish kokoreç (a spicy fish dish inspired by the traditional lamb version) is a must-try for the adventurous. Their fried calamari and shrimp saganaki — baked in tomato sauce and cheese — also earn rave reviews.

Come hungry and don’t rush — meals here are meant to be savored over multiple courses and drinks. It’s also a great place for vegetarians or pescatarians due to the abundance of flavorful mezes. Located right off the hustle and bustle of Istiklal Street, it’s easy to combine with a cultural evening in Beyoğlu.

Far from the touristy hustle of the European side, Yelken Balık provides a relaxing alternative for those who want a slower, more local experience. Overlooking the marina with bobbing sailboats in view, the atmosphere is peaceful and polished — ideal for couples, families, and business dinners alike.

Start with grilled calamari and Aegean-style greens in olive oil. Their octopus carpaccio is delicately seasoned and beautifully presented. For the main course, opt for their salt-crusted sea bass — a dramatic table-side presentation and exceptionally moist fish. They also serve seasonal fish like red mullet (barbun) and bluefish (lüfer) at the peak of freshness.

Kalamış is about 30–40 minutes from central Istanbul by taxi or Marmaray train, so it’s best combined with a full day on the Asian side — perhaps after a visit to Kadıköy or Moda. A great place to escape the crowds and watch the sunset in tranquility.

Adem Baba is beloved not for its ambiance but for its freshness, speed, and affordability. Set in a small corner of Arnavutköy, this place looks like a fisherman’s shack — and that’s part of its charm. It’s bustling, it’s lively, and it’s authentic. If you want to eat like a true Istanbulite, this is the place.

The fried anchovies (hamsi tava) are crispy perfection in winter, while the grilled sea bass is a hit year-round. Don’t miss the fish soup (balık çorbası), which is hearty, creamy, and perfect on a chilly day. The prices are among the best in the city for this quality.

No reservations — just show up early, especially on weekends. The interior is very simple (think plastic chairs), but service is quick and efficient. Great for lunch or a casual dinner before walking along the Arnavutköy waterfront.

The menu is extensive, featuring everything from cold meze to premium shellfish. Start with their seasonal appetizers — like artichokes with olive oil or sea bass tartare — and move on to lobster, grilled jumbo prawns, or a perfectly seared turbot fillet. Their dessert tray is equally indulgent — try the pumpkin dessert with tahini.

Park Fora is nestled in a lush garden right by the waterfront, offering a secluded, peaceful setting that feels worlds away from the urban chaos. It has been a staple of Istanbul’s upscale dining scene for decades, known for both its food and its atmosphere.

This is a place where reservations are essential — and worth it. Ask for a table on the terrace if the weather is nice. Prices are premium, but the overall experience (including professional service and sommelier recommendations) makes it a worthwhile splurge.

This is not a restaurant where you order from a menu — you’re in the hands of the chef and the catch of the day. It’s the type of place where everything revolves around freshness, simplicity, and deep respect for ingredients. Celebrities, politicians, and chefs come here not for show but for real flavor.

You’ll be shown a tray of freshly caught fish and shellfish — whatever is best that day. Let the staff guide you. Their signature dish is balık kavurma (fish sautéed with onions and spices), which is unique and deeply flavorful. The grilled turbot or John Dory (kırlangıç) are also exceptional when in season.

It’s best to come with a local guide or someone who speaks Turkish, as English is limited and ordering can be an experience in itself. Definitely book in advance and expect prices to match the quality. A true hidden treasure for those who appreciate authentic, expertly prepared seafood.

This is a place to see and be seen — but the food more than holds its own. With its modern take on Turkish seafood classics, attentive service, and sophisticated ambiance, Bebek Balıkçısı is perfect for a fashionable dinner after a day of exploring the upscale shops and cafés of Bebek.

Their calamari is incredibly tender, and the grilled lobster or sea bass carpaccio are both show-stoppers. If you want something rich and unique, try the seafood risotto or baked shrimp casserole (karides güveç). Their dessert menu includes house-made baklava served warm with ice cream.

It’s on the expensive side and gets crowded quickly, especially on weekends. Reserve a table in advance — preferably on the open terrace. This is a great spot for a stylish night out or a date night with a view.

Standing by the Galata Bridge with a fresh, hot fish sandwich in hand is a rite of passage for travelers. The view of the Golden Horn, the call to prayer from nearby mosques, and the chatter of fishermen on the bridge create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Balık ekmek is simple: grilled mackerel, lettuce, onions, and sometimes a squeeze of lemon inside a crispy bread roll. You can add pickled vegetables and wash it down with a glass of şalgam (fermented purple carrot juice) or ayran.

Watch out for hygiene and choose vendors that are busy and look clean. Go around sunset for the best views and fewest lines. It’s an amazing snack or light meal for under 100 TL (around $3 as of 2025).

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