Best Seafood Restaurants in Istanbul
Istanbul, with its prime location straddling two continents and flanked by the Bosphorus, truly knows its way around fresh seafood. You'll find a delightful array of options here, from cozy spots right by the water to stunning rooftop restaurants offering incredible views. The city's seafood scene is vibrant and welcoming, with many places priding themselves on serving up the day's catch alongside warm, friendly service. Whether you're after a classic grilled fish or something a bit more adventurous, you're in for a treat.
Top Recommendations
Şiva Oyster Fish Restaurant
Kiyi Balik Karakoy
The Boil Seafood and Steak House
Complete List
Şiva Oyster Fish Restaurant
This restaurant offers a delightful seafood experience. You can tell they put care into their dishes, especially the fresh fish and those tasty oysters; it’s always a treat. The vibe here is quite welcoming, making it easy to settle in. Plus, the staff truly goes out of their way to make you feel right at home, adding to a pleasant evening out.
Kiyi Balik Karakoy
Kiyi Balik Karakoy is a fantastic fish wrap restaurant. You can tell they use really fresh mackerel, grilled just right, tucked into a perfectly spiced wrap. It’s got that authentic flavor you crave, with a nice balance of seasoning and a little crunch. The service is quick, making it ideal for a delicious, on-the-go meal. It feels like a true local spot.
The Boil Seafood and Steak House
The Boil Seafood and Steak House is a restaurant where you’ll find some truly fresh seafood and solid steak dishes. It’s a fantastic spot for an evening out, especially on the rooftop where you get those amazing city views. There’s often a lively vibe too, making it a memorable place for a relaxed meal or just a drink with friends.
Old İstanbul Rooftop Mezze & Seafood Restaurant
This rooftop mezze and seafood restaurant offers truly incredible views of the Bosphorus. It’s a lovely spot where you can enjoy fresh, delicious seafood, and the mezze are fantastic too. You’ll find the service attentive and the atmosphere quite inviting. It feels like a special place for a memorable meal.
Galata Sunset Restaurant
Galata Sunset is a seafood restaurant right by the water, and it’s a spot you’ll want to revisit. They really know their fish here; it’s always fresh and tastes wonderful. You can tell they put a lot of care into the service too; everyone's so friendly and makes you feel right at home. Plus, the views, especially at sunset, are truly something special. It’s got a lovely vibe, often with live music adding to the charm.
Fish Port Restaurant
Fish Port Restaurant is a lovely seafood spot right under the Galata Bridge. You can tell they really care about fresh fish; the grilled sea bream is always a winner. It’s got a warm, relaxed vibe, and the views of the Golden Horn, especially at sunset, are truly something special. The service is attentive too; they’ll make you feel right at home.
Yelkenci Karaköy
Yelkenci Karaköy is a seafood restaurant offering a truly stunning Bosphorus view, especially from its upper terraces. You'll find delicious fresh fish and a great selection of flavorful meze here. The staff are quite friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home. It’s a lovely spot for a relaxed meal overlooking the water.
Galata Sanat Restaurant Galata Köprüsü
Galata Sanat Restaurant is a fantastic spot right under the bridge. It’s a seafood restaurant where you’ll find genuinely fresh fish and delicious dishes like shrimp casserole. The lively atmosphere, often with live music, makes it a great evening out. You can’t beat the views of the Bosphorus and the city lights. Plus, the staff always makes you feel welcome; they’re incredibly friendly.
Popina
Popina is a seafood restaurant with a wonderful spot right by the water. You’ll find the views of the Bosphorus and Galata Bridge are just stunning, especially when the sun goes down. The fish and seafood dishes here are simply delicious, and it feels like they really care about fresh ingredients. The staff are always so welcoming; it’s a truly pleasant place to enjoy a meal.
Sultanahmet Fish House, Istanbul Restaurant, Dining
Sultanahmet Fish House is a restaurant that truly knows its seafood. You’ll find incredibly fresh catches here, often cooked to perfection. I always enjoy their sea bass or those amazing buttered prawns. It’s got a wonderfully warm vibe, making it a comfortable spot for a meal. The staff are so genuinely friendly, they’ll make you feel right at home.
Tips
Istanbul's seafood scene is truly special, and you'll find some incredible spots, especially around the bustling Galata Bridge in Karaköy and Eminönü, or for breathtaking rooftop views in Sultanahmet. You absolutely have to try the fresh catch of the day, whether it's a perfectly grilled sea bass or a quick, delicious fish wrap, a local favorite. Many places offer stunning sunset backdrops, often with live music adding to the lively atmosphere. The service is usually warm and friendly, making you feel right at home. Just remember to always check the menu prices before ordering, as some tourist-heavy spots can have varied costs. Enjoy the amazing flavors and incredible ambiance!
Get the Best of Istanbul in Your Inbox
Sign up to receive new guides and local favorites delivered weekly.