Go out
Clubs are strict about their male/female ratios so avoid showing up with a bunch of guys. If you can’t get around that, be prepared to pay 50-75 YTL/person or wait in line for a while. Midnight is usually a good time to get to a club.
- Reina, Ortokoy: Stunning clubbing under the illuminated Bosphorus Bridge. You can also have dinner there earlier in the evening to avoid the hassle at the door and enjoy the view. Reserve a day or two in advance. An Istanbul must.
- Angelique, Ortokoy: Another Istanbul must. The design is perfect and the best place to feel Istanbul’s East/West contrast.
- SupperClub, Ortokoy: Beautiful interior featuring huge white beds/sofas. Good electro house music.
- Crystal, Ortokoy: Afterhours club open until 6 a.m. Deeper house music.
- Otto, Beyoglu: Perfect low-key place for drinks on an off night or before heading out to the club.
Eat
- House Café, Ortokoy: My favorite place for lunch, view doesn’t get better.
- 360, Beyoglu: Stunning views of the famous Mosques at night. Go for drinks or dinner - European cuisine.
- Saraya, Nisantisi: Excellent Turkish food in trendy neighborhood.
- Midpoint, Nisantisi: Perfect spot for a lunch break shopping European cuisine
- Brasserie @ Beymen, Nisantisi: After Midpoint or Saraya, walk over to Brasserie for coffee, desert and premiere people-watching.
- Hamdi, Sirkeci: Turkish specialties - don’t miss the pistachio and aubergine kebabs. Book a couple of days in advance to get a spot on the terrace.
Shop
- Nisantisi neighberhood
- Kanyon mall
Thanks to Mathias, Nada, Amina and the great friends we met in Istanbul for the recommendations above.
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