It would be challenging to find a city with a more profound yet harmonious division than Istanbul. The capital of Turkey serves as the meeting point between Europe and Asia, blending Byzantine history with a modern metropolis and seamlessly merging old-school artistry with new-school innovation.
Arkestra, located in the stylish Etiler neighborhood next to Les Benjamins’ headquarters, is a Michelin Guide restaurant housed in a beautifully designed former 1960s residential villa. Since its arrival in September 2022, it has gained recognition for Chef Patron Cenk Debensason’s genre-defying cooking, combining local seasonal ingredients with French techniques. Don't miss the bold and refreshing combination of tuna sashimi with sushi rice ice cream.
In the heart of the city, the Grand Bazaar has been a bustling market since the 15th century, offering intricately woven carpets, dazzling gold jewelry, ornate ceramics, rich textiles, chocolates, and exotic spices. The labyrinthine destination immerses visitors in an authentic atmosphere, with lively and friendly merchants showcasing their diverse offerings.
Established in 2016 by Ulaş Parkan, Ambidexter is a non-profit art gallery aiming to empower and develop Istanbul’s emerging artists. Rejecting the capitalist art ecosystem, Ambidexter allows artists to retain ownership of their art, with all profits funding the gallery’s future. The current exhibition, Fantasia 23, features young local artists Selver Yıldırım and Oğulcan Kuş.
Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece constructed in the 6th century, has transformed from a cathedral to an imperial mosque and later a museum before becoming a mosque again in 2020. The seamless blend of Byzantine and Ottoman influences in its vast interior reflects the rich heritage and evolving cultural significance of Istanbul.
For vegan and organic dining in Istanbul, Bi Nevi Deli offers creative plant-based dishes using predominantly in-season ingredients from organic and local sources since 2014. The restaurant focuses on plant-based proteins and nut-based cheeses, prioritizing health and flavor.
Saloncuma, located in Istanbul’s Çukurcuma district with original 1920s interiors, is a dinner and wine bar offering brilliant food and wine in a homely atmosphere. Open to the public from Thursday to Saturday, it has also served as a venue for film premieres and music releases from Istanbul’s exceptional talent.
316 Wine Bar, named after low-carbon stainless steel scrap, is a trendy low-waste venue in Nişantaşı. Despite the conservative government's attitude towards alcohol, the wine bar showcases Turkey's brilliant wines through Turkish wine-tasting evenings hosted by the region’s top sommeliers.
Arkestra, located in the stylish Etiler neighborhood next to Les Benjamins’ headquarters, is a Michelin Guide restaurant housed in a beautifully designed former 1960s residential villa. Since its arrival in September 2022, it has gained recognition for Chef Patron Cenk Debensason’s genre-defying cooking, combining local seasonal ingredients with French techniques. Don't miss the bold and refreshing combination of tuna sashimi with sushi rice ice cream.
In the heart of the city, the Grand Bazaar has been a bustling market since the 15th century, offering intricately woven carpets, dazzling gold jewelry, ornate ceramics, rich textiles, chocolates, and exotic spices. The labyrinthine destination immerses visitors in an authentic atmosphere, with lively and friendly merchants showcasing their diverse offerings.
Established in 2016 by Ulaş Parkan, Ambidexter is a non-profit art gallery aiming to empower and develop Istanbul’s emerging artists. Rejecting the capitalist art ecosystem, Ambidexter allows artists to retain ownership of their art, with all profits funding the gallery’s future. The current exhibition, Fantasia 23, features young local artists Selver Yıldırım and Oğulcan Kuş.
Hagia Sophia, an architectural masterpiece constructed in the 6th century, has transformed from a cathedral to an imperial mosque and later a museum before becoming a mosque again in 2020. The seamless blend of Byzantine and Ottoman influences in its vast interior reflects the rich heritage and evolving cultural significance of Istanbul.
For vegan and organic dining in Istanbul, Bi Nevi Deli offers creative plant-based dishes using predominantly in-season ingredients from organic and local sources since 2014. The restaurant focuses on plant-based proteins and nut-based cheeses, prioritizing health and flavor.
Saloncuma, located in Istanbul’s Çukurcuma district with original 1920s interiors, is a dinner and wine bar offering brilliant food and wine in a homely atmosphere. Open to the public from Thursday to Saturday, it has also served as a venue for film premieres and music releases from Istanbul’s exceptional talent.
316 Wine Bar, named after low-carbon stainless steel scrap, is a trendy low-waste venue in Nişantaşı. Despite the conservative government's attitude towards alcohol, the wine bar showcases Turkey's brilliant wines through Turkish wine-tasting evenings hosted by the region’s top sommeliers.