International restaurants in Istanbul
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A
Changa
A number of eateries in İstanbul attempt fusion cuisine, but few do it well; this sophisticated restaurant is one that does. Order the 12-course tasting menu (TL124 for two people) and you may score delights such as scallops with hummus and panko crumble, roasted salmon with coconut sauce and a cress-coriander salad with rose petals, or slow-cooked lamb wrapped in vine leaves and served with sour cream and sweet chilli sauce. In summer, the action moves to Müzedechanga on the Bosphorus.
reviewed
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Aşşk Kahve
The city’s glamour set loves this garden cafe to bits, and its weekend brunches are an institution. Go early to snaffle a table by the water and don’t forget to have a Botox shot before you go – that way you’ll fit in nicely. It’s accessed via the stairs behind the Macrocenter.
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B
Kafe Ara
In the Beyoğlu popularity stakes one cafe stands head and shoulders above the rest – Kafe Ara. A converted garage with tables and chairs spilling out into a wide laneway opposite the Galatasaray Lycée, this is boho central, a casual and welcoming place where you can sample well-priced panini, salads and pastas in a convivial atmosphere. The emphasis here is on top-quality, super-fresh ingredients and simple Mediterranean-slanted dishes, though it’s also possible to order Turkish favourites such as mantı (Turkish ravioli). There’s no alcohol.
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C
İstanbul Modern Cafe
An ‘industrial arty’ vibe and great views over the water to Sultanahmet (when there are no moored cruise ships in the way) make the cafe at İstanbul’s pre-eminent contemporary art museum a perfect place for lunch. Pasta is homemade, pizzas are Italian-style and service is slick – all of which makes for a happy lunch experience. It’s a good idea to make a reservation as it can fill quickly, particularly on weekends.
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D
Vogue
It seems as if Vogue has been around for almost as long as the Republic. In fact, this sophisticated bar-restaurant in an office block in Beşiktas opened just over a decade ago. It’s a favourite haunt of the Nişantaşı powerbroker set, who love nothing more than enjoying a drink at the terrace bar before moving into the restaurant for pricey sushi or Mod Med dishes.
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E
8 Istanbul
Heavy on atmosphere but light on attitude, 8 Istanbul caters for all budgets and tastes. The menu is a veritable United Nations, featuring Thai soups, Indian samosas, Chinese spring rolls, Mexican guacamole, Vietnamese salads, Austrian schnitzels and Turkish kebaps. All are competently executed and attractively presented. A DJ spins mood-driven tracks later in the night.
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F
House Cafe
This casually chic cafe is one of the best spots in town for Sunday brunch. A huge space right on the waterfront, it offers a good-quality buffet spread for TL45 between 10am and 2pm. Food at other times can be disappointing, though that doesn't deter the locals, who flock here every weekend.
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G
Kahvedan
This expat haven serves dishes such as bacon and eggs, French toast, mee goreng and falafel wraps. Owner Shellie Corman is a traveller at heart, and knows the importance of things such as free wi-fi, decent wine by the glass, keen prices and good music. It’s also an extremely popular bar.
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H
Lale Restaurant (Pudding Shop)
It's a long time since the Pudding Shop served up fare to the hippies who made it famous, but its fame still drags in backpackers travelling in their parents' footsteps. Appearing for the prosecution: the stodgy, badly cooked food. For the defence: the fact that it has wi-fi and booze.
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