Best Seafood Options in Istanbul

Gokce Nacar

May 26 565 read

Best Seafood Options in Istanbul

Turkey is a country surrounded on three sides by water. As a result, it is abundant in fish and seafood. On the menus of Istanbul restaurants, it's easy to become lost among the fish and seafood. Because a Turkish proverb is reflected in the country's culinary culture: "I eat whatever comes out of the water."

The seafood available in Istanbul is comparable to that available elsewhere.

Both fish and seafood can be prepared in a variety of ways. This can alter the flavor. Mussels and shellfish, for example, can be stuffed, stewed, pan-fried, or boiled. It can be spiced up with salt, pepper, lemon, or left simple, depending on your preferences. It's frequently served with lots of greens in salads.

Arnavutkoy Seafood

Arnavutkoy is one of Istanbul's most beautiful areas, with beautiful wooden houses, super local, and several nice restaurants such as Sur Balık (the classy one with a breath-taking view of the Bosphorus), Lipari (cheap, local, and very good), Arnavutköy Balıkçısı, or Eftalya (two neighborhood institutions, good service, and great food). They're all on the same street, which is convenient. Remember to make a reservation for the weekend, since there are always a large number of guests.

Del Mare Restaurant

It's a Bosphorus restaurant on the Asian side of town with excellent meals and a spectacular view of the city and strait. They pick you up and take you back to the United States by boat from Europe, which adds a romantic touch. The octopus carpaccio, fried shrimp, and yogurt ravioli, as well as the superb fish and Turkish mezze, are not to be missed. You will also be satisfied by the excellent wine list (and rak) as well as the excellent service! A tad on the pricey side, but the quality of the food, the romance of the location, and the backdrop more than make up for it!