Serenity Amongst the Sultans: 6 Quiet Restaurants / Spots in Istanbul

Istanbul is a feast for the senses, but its energy can be overwhelming. For the slow traveler seeking to truly savor the nuances of Turkish and Ottoman cuisine, finding a dining spot that offers quiet sanctuary is a reward.

These restaurants, cafés, and lokantas (traditional eateries) in Istanbul are known for their calm ambiance, allowing you to relax, converse easily, and appreciate the depth of flavor without the chaotic clamor of the main streets.

Ottoman Restaurant - Istanbul

1. Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Palace Hotel

Located close to the Blue Mosque but offering a profound sense of escape, Deraliye specializes in recreating authentic dishes from the Ottoman palace kitchens. The focus on historical, slow food is matched by its tranquil setting.

• Atmosphere: Elegant, with Ottoman inspired decor. The room is spacious, ensuring guests are not crowded, making conversation easy and pleasant.

• Cuisine Focus: Historical Ottoman palace cuisine. Try their unique dishes inspired by 15th and 16th century recipes.

• Address: Alemdar, Ticarethane Sk. No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul

2. Çiya Sofrası

While technically a complex of several restaurants in Kadıköy (Asian side), the original Sofrası (table) offers a heartwarming, unhurried experience focused entirely on the food. It’s away from the main European tourist rush and highly respected by locals.

• Atmosphere: Casual and canteen style, but dedicated to regional Turkish slow food. The energy is focused on the food, not the fanfare. It’s perfect for a true culinary deep dive.

• Cuisine Focus: Authentic, regional Anatolian cuisine. The menu changes daily, featuring dishes rarely found outside their region of origin.

• Address: Caferağa Mah. Güneşlibahçe Sk. No:43, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul

3. Fıccın

Tucked away off the main bustle of Istiklal Street, Fıccın is a favorite among locals for its home style Turkish and Circassian dishes. They offer several quiet dining areas away from the street level.

• Atmosphere: Cozy, featuring a lovely inner courtyard (weather permitting) or tucked away basement areas that provide a true shield against the street noise of Beyoğlu.

• Cuisine Focus: Circassian specialties like fıccın (savory meat pastries) and excellent home cooked Turkish meals (ev yemekleri).

• Address: İstiklal Caddesi, Kallavi Sk. No:13, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

4. Karaköy Lokantası

A modern classic in the trendy Karaköy district, this establishment is famed for its stylish, clean design and high quality traditional Turkish food. Its popularity is managed by excellent service, resulting in a bustling yet controlled atmosphere ideal for conversation.

• Atmosphere: Chic, modern, and high ceilinged, providing a comfortable distance between tables. It's lively but not loud, making it a sophisticated choice for a quiet meal.

• Cuisine Focus: Contemporary take on classic Turkish lokanta food and excellent meze.

• Address: Kemankeş Mahallesi, Kemankeş Cd. No:57, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

5. Pierre Loti Café

While known for its stunning panoramic views over the Golden Horn, the cafe complex on Pierre Loti Hill (named after the French novelist) offers quiet seating areas away from the main terrace, particularly during non peak hours.

• Atmosphere: Historic and scenic. Take the teleferik (cable car) up for the quiet journey. Find a table tucked behind the main terrace for a reflective Turkish coffee or simple meal.

• Cuisine Focus: Simple Turkish fare, coffees, and sweets. The view is the main attraction, best savored slowly.

• Address: Eyüp Merkez, Karyağdı Sk. No:30, 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul

6. Arabica Coffee (Various Locations)

For moments when a full meal is too much but quiet is necessary, Arabica Coffee (a local Turkish chain, not to be confused with % Arabica) maintains excellent standards in ambiance and quality.

• Atmosphere: Consistent, modern, minimalist design focused on coffee appreciation. The low volume music and comfortable seating encourage quiet reading or working.

• Cuisine Focus: Specialty coffee, freshly baked pastries, and light snacks.

• Address: Several locations across the city; check locations in quieter neighborhoods like Nişantaşı or Balat.