You have been in Istanbul many times. How do you like the city? Is performing here different than performing in other cities?

It absolutely is, because there is a story behind it. We had our first international concert with Parov Stelar & Band in Istanbul, so it is absolutely an honor for us to come back and play here!

We would like to learn a bit more about Parov Stelar. Where does the name come from?

There is no big story behind it, I was searching on the net for some combination of words, which haven’t been used by anybody else so far and that sounded good. In the end, Parov Stelar was the result and I hope you like it.

Austria is known for its great classical musicians. Where did the inspiration for making electro-swing music come from?

Since my start as a DJ, there have been a lot of different musicians and genres that influenced me as a person and also my career as a musician. So it is important for me to try new styles, I think it would be boring to always do the same thing.

I do not really think that there is a direct connection with Austria in terms of my influences. I don’t think you can categorize music, because the word “music” is something universal, which is independent of age, sex, or origin. Overall, the most important thing for me is to transmit emotions.

Which artists have influenced your music the most?

There are a lot of different influences, if I had to point some out of them they would be: Jeff Parker, Portishead, and Muse.

What got you started as a DJ? Were there any specific artists or moments that drove you to engage with electronic music?

It happened more or less by accident. I worked as a graphic artist and I designed some flyers for techno events and clubs and finally had the chance to get involved with the music scene step-by-step, starting with some production trials.

Recently you have transitioned from DJing to performing live as a band. How was that transition? What drove you to include live musicians on your set?

It was not really a decision, more of a process. At the beginning of my music career I started on my own. By traveling around, playing concerts and working with different people, I got in touch with a lot of interesting and talented artists. So finally I “found” the right people to form a band with, so it was basically more a logical process to invent the “Parov Stelar Band”, than a decision.

What’s your favorite part about playing with a live band?

Playing live shows is generally the best way to pass on the feeling and power of our music to our fans, because live shows include a kind of “live experience,” and the exciting fact is that on stage, there is just one chance to play a song in its best quality.

What do you always carry with you when you are on the road?

My iPhone and my band.

Tell us a little about your new album, The Princess? How is it different from your previous albums?

All of my albums have a certain connection with each other of course, but it is not like you can say that this is “Godfather, Part 3” or anything like that. It is natural for an artist to produce something new on the next record, but it’s also important to ensure that the artist’s style and handwriting is easily recognizable on a new piece.

One very important difference is that it took me a lot longer to finish, or I rather gave myself more time to finish it, than the albums before. Two and a half years to be exact. It was originally planned for the album to be released much earlier, but this time I decided to wait long enough until I could happily and confidently say: “Now I am finished”. “The Princess” is less experimental than “Shine” or “Seven and Storm.” It is important that the different stages in my life and the experiences, which I have been through, are recognizable in my songs. This is why there are so many different influences and approaches on this album.

You’ve also established your own record label (Etage Noir) and work as a producer. Can you tell us a little about the Etage Noir experience.

Not “only” being a musician but also having your own label is a lot of responsibility. But of course the most positive effect is that I am my own boss and can decide, which kind of music I’d like to release and when I’d like to produce a new album. But it would not be possible without having a lot of people who know how to work independently and take responsibility for all the decisions during the time I am away for business meetings or touring. So I am more than grateful to have the right co-workers that help me be the artist Parov Stelar and also the owner of the label Etage Noir recordings.

It is also great to give other bands the possibility to do their own music, play shows, and produce songs. There are so many great artists, just to point some of them out, you should listen so some songs of A-G Trio or La Rochelle. We also show our great support for DJs like Pat Poree or Alex Ryba, we love to take them with us on tour.

If you were on a deserted island and you could bring five records with you, what would you bring?

Daft Punk - Homework

Portishead - Dummy

Moby - Play

Jeff Parker - Triple Best

Muse - The Resistance

What should your Istanbul fans look forward to in your performance on the 26th of May? What will the set include?

They can expect an amazing live show where we will present our new album “The Princess.” So do not forget to wear your dancing shoes and be ready for some blisters while you enjoy yourself. The concert will be the time for people to stop thinking about problems of the following day and just have a good time with good music and a great atmosphere. We are looking forward having a great party all together.

The Happy Hour concept is a foreign-inspired theme and has just begun to take part in the city’s nightlife scene. As such, we did the research for you and found bars, cafes, and restaurants that host the Happy Hour crowd:

Bej Kahve

We don’t have to say much about Bej Kahve’s Saturday Happy Hour party, because the entire Karaköy neighborhood is witness to the boisterous exclamation of its crowd. The party takes place from 5-9pm and features house music and a full list of cocktails, including favorites such as the margarita and the vodka martini made with thyme. Kemankeş Caddesi Fransız Geçidi No.11, Karaköy; P: (0212) 251 71 95

Tag Cafe

Another neighborhood outside-drinking-parade, Tag Cafe features a Happy Hour every day (except Fridays and Saturdays) from 5-7pm with a 20\% discount on all drinks. Make sure to drop by Friday and Saturday nights as well, even if there is no discount, the party goes on until the morning hours. İstiklal Caddesi Postacılar Sokak No.1/A, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 243 68 62

Cento per Cento

Every Saturday beginning at 4pm the Happy Hour begins at Cento per Cento with local and international party music and a new addition to the cocktail list such as Passion Vodka made with passion fruit (as the name implies). Abdi Ipekci Caddesi, Zati Apartmani, No:36, Nişantaşı; P: 0212 2326202

Den Cafe

Another Nişantaşı spot, Den Cafe offers an Aperitivo event every Thursday from 6-9pm with music, delicious cocktails, and a free hors deuvres buffet. Make sure to grab a seat outside to enjoy the end of another day with a drink in your hand. Mim Kemal Öke Caddesi No. 1/D, Nişantaşı; P: (0212) 224 24 70

Kiki

Kiki offers both Aperitivo and Happy Hour under one roof (and garden). Every Monday and Wednesday the slightly claustrophobic nighttime hipster hideout offers a Happy Hour from 7-9pm with 50\% off all drinks. Tuesday and Thursday means Aperitivo from 7-9pm with a free open buffet of hot and cold tapas. Siraselviler Caddesi No:42, Cihangir; P: (0212) 243 53 73

Dai Pera

Every day between 5-8pm, Dai Pera offers a 20\% discount on all their alcoholic beverages, including homemade cocktails like red or white Sangria, Caipiroska, and Apple Martini among many others. Make sure to not tumble down the slightly steep descending cobblestone street, where the bar is located, on your way out. Yeni Çarşı Caddesi 54, Galatasaray; P: (0212) 252 8099

Nuteras opens the last week of April, meaning that the weather is finally reaching amenable temperatures. Mixed with a slight bitterness that Nupera (composed of 67, LilBitz and Auf) must close for that to occur, the terrace is a welcome escape from a common ground-floor-existence. Like most trendy bars in the city, Nuteras is also a restaurant, with a menu that combines the international and Turkish.

After a certain hour the tables begin to disappear, allowing for standing and dancing space, and the volume of the music begins to creep to high levels. This is the time when the first brave soul makes his or her way to the top of the glass dance floor to break the seal of immovability. The full bar offers whatever cocktail your mind might conjure, but the recommended Rose Mojito, made of white wine, red wine, Absolut vanilla, lime, and mint,is a worthy palatal endeavor. Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 67/1; P: 212 245 60 70

A wise wine expert once said that the only truth behind the art of tasting and enjoying wine was to trust one’s palate and therefore believe in its judgment and preferences. If this means that you will have to call a$2,000 bottle a perfect specimen of garbage juice, then so be it.

This advice came to mind, while the cork from a bottle of Gülor’s Malbec Öküzgözü, only one from among many bottles on display at Solera Wine Bar in Galatasaray, slowly slid out of the narrow space of its bottle neck, allowing the compressed to dissipate. The owner of the space, Süleyman Er, looked on as the first and most decisive sip was taken, with the tips of three fingers directing the glass forward and up, allowing for the inevitable reaction between crimson liquid and palate to occur. The reaction was extremely positive.

Er continued to pour, something he has done many times, with a past in the restaurant wine serving business and an interest in wine that took him all the way to the vineyards of South America for self-initiated research. Now, as the owner of Solera, Er’s passion for the grape has turned into a small and consequently intimate space decorated with a giant print of wine grapes on one wall and black and white photography, from one of his trips to Katmandu, on the other. Shelves display an array of bottles, both domestic and international, brought in from independent boutiques, among others. Shiraz, Malbec, Öküzgözü, Boğazkere, Merlot goes the list and up to a variety above an impressive number of 1100.

Apart from the wine, a light menu of cold appetizers is served, and if you choose to take your wine home, a 25\\\\% discount is automatically presented, since the bar is also a small wine shop. The photos also happen to be on sale for those interested, while the collection of other photographers are put up for sale intermittently.

Whether you are a wine enthusiast or not, Solera offers a place to have a conversation without interruption, before or after a night out. And if you need some advice about which bottle to open, Er will surely show you the way. Yeniçarşı Caddesi No.4; P: (0212) 252 27 19

Ulus29: While the restaurant of Ulus29 is a distracting venture in terms of trying to concentrate on the person sitting across from you, when Istanbul’s most attractive are all around, the lounge is a worthy alternative. An upscale feel is accompanied by the lights of the Bosphorus bridge that change color outside the open windows of the glass chandelier festooned space inside. Allow another well made drink to lubricate that conversation you are having, and maybe on the balcony overlooking the water, the combination of everything good will make you want to say a little more than you intended. A. Adnan Saygun Caddesi Ulus Parkı İçi; P: (0212) 358 29 29

X Restaurant and Bar: When you take the elevator up from the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV) building, a dance of mirrors outside the elevator glass weaves in and out making you wonder where it is you’re going to exactly. Yet with the opening of doors, an almost hidden venue is revealed, where the lights are low to allow Istanbul’s night to enter and reflect off the alcohol bottles awaiting to be handled and tipped into glasses. While also offering a dinner menu, the later hours at X Restaurant and Bar continue with a relaxing atmosphere that allow couples to fold their legs into one another and find shelter upon the swivel chairs by the bar. The balcony is also a step away with a large space to enjoy a liberating view, a cigarette, or the increasing temperatures of an oncoming spring. IKVS Deniz Palas Sadi Konuralp Caddesi No: 5; P: (0212) 334 08 45

Mikla: If you haven’t eaten dinner at Mikla yet, you should, but if you take a right from the entrance and continue to walk you will once again find yourself in a bar and beautiful view symposium, where soft lounge music not only allows but beckons conversation. Walk out to the balcony where, above the rooftops of residences, the rest of the city and its people traverse vociferously, while the water glides by undisturbed. The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Caddesi 167/185; P: (0212) 293 56 56

Leb-i Derya: The outside of Leb-i Derya looks like the entrance to another apartment building unevenly placed on the cobblestone streets near Tünel. Yet once you make it up the winding stairs, the restaurant and its bar arrive like a relief with a mural of Istanbul at night in the background of chattering tables and the full bar. The feel of walking into someone’s fantastic rooftop loft will continue by the bar, where you can begin or end the evening, sipping your drink and stealing glances, between words spoken, at Istanbul’s historical sights illuminated for recognition. Kumbaracı Yokuşu No. 57/6; P: (0212) 293 49 89

The 31^st Istanbul Film Festival, hosted by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV),is about to begin (only 2 days left). By now, you’ve probably got your tickets or you’re still in the process of picking your films (take a look at our festival piece here for some help on this).

Most festival-goers will want to make a night of their night at the movies. If you’re one of them, take a look at our suggestions for places to go for drinks and party. We highly recommend you get something to eat beforehand though (see our Restaurants Guide for the film festival).

<div class="detail_extra_cont fr" style="font-size: 12px !important;">Festival Locations

This year, the festival will be held at the following cinemas, museums and cultural centers: Atlas Cinema, AFM Fitaş, Beyoğlu Cinema, Citylife, Rexx Cinema in Kadıköy, the Pera Museum, Salon IKSV, and Akbank Sanat.</div>

Around İstiklal

Beer and funky house at Balkon:Located right by Küçük Otto, Balkon is a cozy bar with a nice atmosphere to have a chat over a bottle of beer with funky house and the oldies playing in the background. Asmalımescit Mahallesi Şehbender Sokak No.5 K.6, Tünel; P: (0212) 293 20 52

Cocktails at Leb-i Derya:An upscale venue that attracts Istanbulites as well as tourists, Leb-i Derya is a romantic spot that offers fantastic views of the Golden Horn and parts of the Old City. We highly suggest the tiramisu martini for those with a sweet tooth. Kumbaracı Yokuşu No. 57/6, Tünel; P: (0212) 293 49 89

Shots or cocktails at Parantez:Parantez is a tiny bar located on Jurnal Sokak across from Babylon Lounge. It’s a casual spot frequented by locals as well as tourists. If you want a glass of something delicious, go for the Orman Cini, made with rum, fresh green apple juice, and cinnamon. The rim of the glass is lined with cinnamon and it is served with a slice of green apple. You can get it as a cocktail or a shot, depending on how fast you want to get tipsy. Asmalımescit Mahallesi Sofyalı Jurnal Sokak No. 1, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 245 75 13

Deep house and minimal techno at Küçük Otto:A legendary Istanbul bar flocked by its frequenters and tourists and a local favorite for late night dancing in Asmalımescit, Küçük Otto is a small bar that tends to get quite crowded. Here, we suggest you indulge in a few shots: the Gelincik Shot made with corn poppy sauce, lime, and vodka; Sakız Shot made with mastic, milk, and vodka; and Kiss my Otto, made with cinnamon, orange juice, lime, and vodka.

Shots at Tektekçi:Istanbul’s first shot bar, Tektekçi is one of the most popular venues in Beyoğlu these days. This small bar gets quite crowded, overflowing with fearless dancers who can see the bottom of several shot glasses in less than minutes. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of interesting shot combinations, from the sweet to the sour, to the spicy to the sweet-and-sour. (For a full review of Tektekçi, click here.) Tomtom Mahallesi Akarsu Sokak No.2/1, Beyoğlu; P: (0533) 774 74 60

Around Pera/Şişhane

Beer at North Shield Pub:The North Shield Pub serves as a great spot for those who want a true pub feel. Here, you’ll find a variety of imported beer, such as Leffe and Germany’s Historical Brewery Tavern Schlenkerl’s Aecht Schlenkerla Eiche (a smoky beer that tastes just like bacon). Palazzo Donizetti Hotel Entrance, Asmalı Mescit Mahallesi Meşrutiyet Caddesi No.55, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 243 15 23

Wine or cocktails at Baylo: Baylo is a great spot in Şişhane for enjoying a glass (or bottle) of wine by the bar, or sipping a delicious green apple martini by the cozy outdoor seating area.Asmalımescit Mahallesi Meşrutiyet Caddesi No.107A,Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 243 60 18

Cocktails at Gozo:A relatively new addition to the area, Gozo is a good option for cocktails. Meşrutiyet Caddesi No.94, Şişhane; P: (0212) 251 53 14

Cocktails at Bird:Bird is one of the most popular places in Şişhane, attracting a steady crowd especially on weekends. If you’re after a good cocktail, we suggest you try the Bird Mojito. If you’re after something hardcore, try the Flatliner shot, made with tequila (reposado), sambuca (Italian liqueur), and 3 drops of Tabasco.Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 103, Şişhane; P: (0212) 245 70 85

Around Nişantaşı

Chill out at Biber:Unwind with a glass of your favorite drink accompanied by chillout and downtempo music at Nişantaşı’s coolest neighborhood bar Biber. Abdi İpekçi Caddesi No. 36, Nişantaşı; P: (0212) 231 41 06

Beer and Turkish rock at Corridor:Located in Nişantaşı’s Milli Reasürans Çarşısı, Corridor’s cozy and laid-back atmosphere attracts a steady stream of frequenters, especially on Tuesday nights for a bottle of beer and the most popular Turkish rock pieces. Milli Reasürans Arcade No.57, Nişantaşı; P: (0212) 343 02 41

Around Kadıköy

Beer at Karga:Karga is an unpretentious bar where the grunge set of the Asian side come out to party. This local favorite offers cheap drinks, loud music, and avant-garde art on the walls. Kadife Sokak No. 16, Kadıköy; P: (0216) 449 17 25

Shots or beer at Arkaoda:A cozy bar frequented by expats, tourists, and Kadıköy locals, Arkaoda is one of the highlights of nightlife on the Asian Side. If you’re up for something strong, try the 3 Maymun shot there. This shot carries a kind of urban legend status. It was created in 1999 by the Arkaoda bartender Deniz Özüer. The ingredients are kept confidential but we know that there’ll be lots of burning in the throat. If you’re ready for what lies ahead, go for it! Kadife Sokak No. 18/A, Kadıköy; P: (0216) 418 02 77

Best Places to Drink Beer in Istanbul

The North Shield Pub: The North Shield Pub has numerous locations around Istanbul (as well as Turkey) and serves as a great spot for those who really want a true pub feel. It is an obvious favorite among tourists (specifically the Sultanahmet branch) and expats (especially the Asmalımescit branch). Here, you’ll find a variety of imported craft beer (beer brewed by small independant breweries) such as Brooklyn Lager and Brooklyn Brown Ale by the famous Brooklyn Brewery. Germany’s Historical Brewery Tavern Schlenkerl’s Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier (a strong, dark, aromatic beer) and Aecht Schlenkerla Eiche (a smoky beer produced only during Christmas time) can be found here, as well as Germany’s wheat beer brewery Schneider Brewery’s beers. If you want a full-bodied, well-balanced beer, go for the Schneider Weisse Unser Aventinus (a kind of beer that’s been in production since 1907). If you’d rather taste what German wheat beer tasted like in the 19^th century, go for the Schneider Weisse Original. Palazzo Donizetti Hotel Entrance, Asmalı Mescit Mahallesi Meşrutiyet Caddesi No.55, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 243 15 23. For other locations, click here.

U2 Istanbul Irish Pub: A particularly small pub that is often raved about for its cozy atmosphere by its frequenters who love going there to drink Guinness. There are over 50 beer varieties here including Brooklyn Brown Ale, Amstel, Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier, Schneider Weisse Original, and Beck’s. There is also an Irish band plays every night. İstiklal Caddesi, Bekar Sokak No: 21, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 243 40 45

Taps: Taps is Turkey’s first brewpub, and is still one of the only pubs in Istanbul to make craft beer. This makes it especially attractive for tourists and expats who are big fans of microbrewery. The pub’s location is also a huge plus. Where else in the world can you sip craft beer while looking at the fantastic view of the Bosphorus?

Once you get to Taps, look through the Taps Craft Beer Guide on the back of the menu where you can read through the various kinds craft beer on offer and take your pick. There are approximately 20 kinds (of which only 4 or 5 are available depending on the season), with a range of Lager, Ale, Wheat beer, Stout, Dark, and more. In addition to Taps’s own craft beers, you’ll find a variety of bottled beer, such as Amstel, Amstel Light, Budweiser, Heineken, Corona, and Apoftel Brau. Music gets going after 10pm, with playlists of popular songs. Cevdet Paşa Caddesi No. 119, Bebek; P: (0212) 263 87 00

Bi Buçuk: Not necessarily a pub per se, but a favorite spot for drinking beer for locals. Bi Buçuk is famed for its chicken wings, and the majority of its frequenters go there simply for that: a bucket of wings, a bowl of French fries, and lots and lots of beer. Here, you’ll find a varied beer list that includes Efes and Bomonti on draft, as well as Corona, Budweiser, Heineken, and Schlenkerla. As for the music, top hits of the 90s will be playing in the background. Süslü Saksı Sokak No. 14-18, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 244 70 10

Arkaoda: A favorite spot on the Asian Side among locals as well as tourists and expats, Arkaodacan’t really be classified as a pub but it sure is a bar where beer is consumed in large quantities. You won’t find a wide variety of beer (only Heineken, Budweiser, and Corona under imported beers) and most Efes varities. Kadife Sokak No. 18/A, Kadıköy; P: (0216) 418 02 77

Balkon: Located right by Küçük Otto, Balkon is a cozy bar with a nice atmosphere to have a chat over a beer with friends. Efes, Budweiser, Corona are what you’ll find on their humble beer menu. Asmalımescit Mahallesi Şehbender Sokak No.5 K.6, Tünel; P: (0212) 293 20 52

Ritim Bar: Ritim Bar is a meeting spot for Istanbul’s expats. You’ll hear a variety of languages spoken over many glasses of beer here. Istiklal Caddesi, Nevizade Mevkii Balık Pazarı Sahne Sokak No.20, Taksim; P: (0212) 249 02 52

Karga: Different kinds of music is played each night of the week at Karga, a favorite Asian Side spot. Here, you’ll find Tuborg and Guinness on draft, and Leffe, Carlsberg, and Corona bottled. Kadife Sokak No. 16, Kadıköy; P: (0216) 449 17 25

Belfast: A typical Irish pub located on the Asian Side, Belfast is a great spot for, well, drinking beer. They have Carlsberg, Guinness, and Tuborg on draft as well as Leffe Brown, Leffe Blonde, Amstel, Beck’s, Bomonti, Heineken, Miller, Germania, Corona, Taps Kölsch, Taps Red Ale, Efes Dark, and Efes Brown bottled. You won’t hear any Turkish songs but the best of the 80s and 90s and sometimes Irish picks. Caferağa Mahallesi, Dr. Esat Işık Caddesi, No 28/1, Kadıköy; P: (0216) 418 97 06

Sultan Pub: A classic spot for tourists looking for a home away from home on their Istanbul trip, Sultan Pub is a typical pub that offers a fantastic view of the Old City with prices to match. Divanyolu Caddesi. No: 2, Sultanahmet; P: (0212) 528 17 19

James Joyce Irish Pub: A pub that receives mixed reviews but is nonetheless flocked to by expats for a beer or two, especially when celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Here, you’ll find hard-to-find beers like Hoegaadren (orange-flavored wheat beer on draft), Leffe Brown (bottle) and Leffe Blonde (bottle), Guinness (draft), Tuborg, and Carlsberg. They also have cider. İstiklal Caddesi Balo Sok.No:26,Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 24479 73

Turks and Beer

Everybody knows that rakı is the Turk’s drink. No songs or poems have been written in the name of beer, but Turks do consume beer as well, even if there isn't such a strong culture attached to it. Efes Pilsen is the most widespread and world-famous Turkish beer brand, which has been around since 1969 and is found pretty much wherever you go. Efes beers are all Lager, and varieties such as light and dark are available. They also have a non-alcoholic beer, which tastes quite good. Interestingly enough, Tuborg, another Turkish beer brand that produces malt beer, seems to be the brand of choice for those living on the Asian Side.

Beer Dictionary

For the beer-illiterate, here a few terms that will make your life easier and make you sound all the wiser at the pub:

On draft/tap/draught: Simply means beer that is poured into a glass from a keg.

Ale: Rich, flavorful, complex. A type of beer often described as fruity and hearty, made from top-fermenting yeast. Varieties include brown, pale, mild. Leffe is a popular example.

Lager: Crisp, clean, refreshing. This is the most widely-available beer made of bottom-fermenting yeast. Corona, Heineken, Efes, Budweiser, Carlsberg are all Lager.

Wheat beer: Light-colored, top-fermenting beer. Schneider Weisse, Hoegaadren, and Gusto are examples.

Stout: A type of dark beer made with roasted malt or barley. They are easy to spot because their color is quite dark. They have strong flavors. A very popular example is Guinness.

What to watch out for when drinking beer

If you’re after a night of heavy beer-drinking in a cheap bar, it’s highly suggested you go for bottled beer instead of draft because drinking draft carries the risk of having a glass of a very watered-down version of what you ordered. So it’s best to pay the few extra bucks and get the bottled one.

What about drinking beer at a restaurant?

Most restaurants carry Efes, and a few additional locales import varieties like Heineken, Budweiser, and Corona. But if you’re a serious beer-drinker, your best bet is one of the pubs listed above.

Beer and French Fries

It doesn’t get better than a glass of cold beer and a bowl of French fries to just relax and forget about the world. House Café in Ortaköy (overlooking over the Bosphorus) or at NumNum (especially in the Kanyon branch) are great places to do this.

İstiklal Caddesi: This long pedestrian road is always filled with people – from all walks of life, all tastes of music, and all sorts of passports. And the bars that line this street offer an equally diverse mix. There are also the side streets that branch out of the main Beyoğlu vessel, doubling the amount of options available.

If you’re an expat who wants to mingle with other expats, or if you’re a local who wants to feel as if you’re on vacation dancing the night away with foreigners, check out Araf (a live-music venue where you can dance to anything from Rebetiko to Anatolian Rock), Ritim Bar for a few reasonably-priced drinks, Live Haymatlos for good-quality independent music, and Nayah if you’re after Reggae.

In addition to these budget hangouts that are filled with travelers and expats, there are also more upscale venues that are attractive to both the Istanbulite and the seasoned traveler. There’s Leb-i Derya that offers fantastic views of the Golden Horn. This is a romantic spot that attracts couples a lot, so beware. There is also 360istanbul, famous for its unrivaled views of Istanbul.

Many 20-30 year-old Istanbulites meet up in TomTom Sokak, which can be best described as an open mall only with bars instead of shops. Possibly the most popular venue here is Tektekçi, a shot bar that is the ideal place to, well, get wasted by drinking really tasty shots. It has to be said, although the concept of Tektekçi is to warm up for a long night out, the music is so good that many end up spending the majority of their night there. If you like to dance to a mix of upbeat songs – anything from Adele and Lily Allen to the golden oldies like “Let’s Twist Again” - you may have to cancel your post-Tektekçi plans.

TomTom is also home to live music venue Indigo andIndigo Loungewhere you can continue your dancing after several Tektekçi shots, Alt. (for a night of jazz), and We for a slightly more tuned down night of drinking.

Şişhane: The other legendary concert venue,Salon IKSV,which brings together different performance styles under one roof, is situated in Şişhane, where a number of chic bars that last until around 2am are located. Bird takes the lead here as the hotspot that attracts the young and the sexy, followed by Baylo, which attracts a mainly 40+ crowd who knows how to have fun. There is also Gozo for cocktails, as well asRook (which attracts a considerably younger crowd) and GoodMoodPera. All these are decent options to give the night a start, but the night really gets going once Şişhane bars are left behind for barhopping in Asmalımescit.

Asmalımescit/Tünel: Everybody knows Tünel – it’s where the nostalgic tram stops at the end of İstiklal Caddesi and it’s where the world’s second oldest underground railway is located. Summer or winter, this square always serves as a meeting point. After the no-tables-and-chairs ban, Tünel’s character did change a bit – some argue for the better, some argue for the worse. Nonetheless, Tünel and Asmalımescit (which is possibly 100 steps away from Tünel) are as lively as ever – even on the coldest of winter nights.

Lokal is the basically what defines nightlife in Tünel. Located right at the square, this multi-storied, multi-genred local favorite provides answers to many crucial nightlife questions: where to mingle with the locals and where to dance all night long. You’ll find different music on different floors, from pop to house. But the best time to really enjoy this place is during summer when the entrance is filled with groups of people drinking and mingling, and passersby, who are unable to help themselves, joining in.

A similar situation is evident on Şehbender Sokak in Asmalımescit. This is the street where Istanbul’s legendary concert venue Babylon is located. There is a concert or a party going on almost every night of the week here (except during the summer months when the venue is closed and moves to its summer location in Çeşme). Pre-concert meet ups, cigarette breaks throughout the concert, and post-concert gatherings turn this street into a street party. Few steps down is where Küçük Otto, another legendary Istanbul bar, is located. Regardless of the weather, crowds flock to this tiny bar, with the party bustling both indoors and outdoors by the street. Many people just pass through there even if they don’t intend on going to Otto simply because the street is always filled with someone they know that they haven’t seen in a while.

Many Otto-goers also stop by Parantez at some point in the night for shots, an end-of-the-night beer, or just to hang out. This similarly tiny bar is located on Jurnal Sokak (parallel to Şehbender) where Babylon Lounge is located. There is also Faces on the way between Babylon and Babylon Lounge where you’ll find a considerable crowd dancing until the wee hours on a weeknight.

Another very popular bar that probably marks the transition from Asmalımescit to Pera is Off Pera. This tiny bar is filled with locals and the occasional traveler who enjoys a mix of Turkish pop, Turkish rock, and popular dance songs.

Pera: Pera has a bunch of clubs (mainly playing Turkish pop). Possibly, the only club here that makes Pera a great area for nightlife is Nupera. During winter, Nupera is a combination of three distinctively-conceptualized restaurants (Auf, LilBitz, and 67) that transform into nightclubs after midnight. During summer, the entertainment moves up to the rooftop restaurant/club called Nuteras, which is famous for its exceptional views of the old city as well as its hip and young crowd. During winter, you can bar-hop without putting your jacket on, dancing to funky house, electro, 80s and 90s, and popular dance songs.

Cihangir:Cihangir is where most people go for late-night partying. There are two very popular places in Cihangir. One of them is Kiki, which gets going around 2am, and the other one is MiniMüzikhol, which is at its peak at 4am when the crowds in Asmalımescit flock to Cihangir. Both places tend to get very crowded with Istanbul’s hipsters. If you’re after minimal techno, house, funk, and disco, and don’t mind being squished, then do give these places a try.

Delicatessen:Take a couple of friends with you and enjoy the pomegranate martini here.Mim Kemal Öke Caddesi No.19/1,Nişantaşı; P: (0212) 225 06 04

Le Fumoir:Head to Galata’s hotspot and enjoy a glass of champagne at the bar. If you’re after something sweet, definitely go for the chocolate mousse that is oh so good! Serdar-I Ekrem Sokak No.24, Galata; P: (0212) 244 24 2

Bird:Head to thisŞişhaneclassic and enjoy a glass (or two) of Bird Mojito made with pomegranate juice. If you’re hungry, we suggest you nibble on guacamole with shrimp. Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 103,Şişhane; P: (0212) 245 70 85

Biber:The meeting point of the stylish Nişantaşıcrowd, Biber is a great bar to hang out for a few hours listening to the best of the oldies and drinking whatever suits your mood. Abdi İpekçi Caddesi No. 36,Nişantaşı; P: (0212) 231 41 06

Baylo:If you want a tête-à-tête, head to Baylo and enjoy the charcuterie plate with a glass (or bottle) of wine. Make sure you try the delicious green apple martini afterwards! Asmalımescit Mahallesi Meşrutiyet Caddesi No.107A,Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 243 60 18

3 Maymun at Arkoada:3 maymun means 3 monkeys, and this shot carries a kind of urban legend status. It was created in 1999 by the Arkaoda bartender Deniz Özüer. The ingredients are kept confidential but we know that there’ll be lots of burning in the throat. If you’re ready for what lies ahead, go for it!

Flatliner Shot at Bird:Even the name scares us. It’s made with tequila (reposado), sambuca (Italian liqueur), and 3 drops of Tabasco.

Sakızlı Vodka at Kiki:This shot translates as mastic vodka, and is made with mastic and absolute vanilla. If you have a sweet tooth, give it a try.

Orman Cini at Parantez: Roughly translated as the genie of the forest, this shot is made with rum, fresh green apple juice, and cinnamon. The rim of the glass is lined with cinnamon and is served with a slice of green apple.Be careful, it’s too yummy to stop drinking.

Gelincik Shot at Küçük Otto: Corn poppy sauce, lime, and vodka. Yum! (We know the article is titled 5 Bars, 5 Shots but here are two more from Küçük Otto: Sakız Shot, made with mastic, milk, and vodka, and Kiss my Otto, made with cinnamon, orange juice, lime, and vodka.)

Arkaoda, Kadife Sokak No. 18/A, Kadıköy; P: (0216) 418 02 77

Bird, Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 103, Şişhane; P: (0212) 245 70 85

Kiki, Sıraselviler Caddesi No:42, Cihangir; P: (0212) 243 53 73

Parantez, Asmalımescit Mahallesi Sofyalı Jurnal Sokak No. 1, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 245 75 13

Küçük Otto, Asmalımescit Mahallesi Şehbender Sokak No. 5/1, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 292 70 15

For the Ladies:

Option 1: Head to the Wailers concert at Küçükçiftlik Park.

Option 2: Get drunk out of your mind at the shot bar Tektekçi. They have an extensive and detailed menu where you can choose what to drink. But being adventurous and not knowing what you’re drinking is half the fun. So, order the 10-shot platter and ask the waiter to mix it up however they want to!

Option 3: If you don’t want to search for your ID and keys at the end of the night, head to Baylo for a few cocktails (we strongly suggest the Green Apple Martini). If you decide to really let loose, Asmalımescit’s bars are just around the corner.

Option 4: Drinking shots and dancing wildly are synonymous with Asmalımescit’s bar scene. You can start at Lokal, make your way to Parantez, then Küçük Otto. And the night will probably take you all the way to MiniMüzikhol in Cihangir.

For the Men:

Option 1: Drink beer at home and play Playstation 3 until your thumbs hurt.

Option 2: Head to The Game at the Point Hotel Barbaros. Live out your rock star fantasies, enjoy a 3D race simulator, play Playstation 3 or Nintendo Wii or Acer Predator – or all of them in any order you want! Heaven for the male species away from estrogen!

Option 3: Go hunting. You know where the ladies will be barhopping in Asmalımescit (see Option 4 above).

Tektekçi, Tomtom Mahallesi Akarsu Sokak No.2/1, Beyoğlu; P: (0533) 774 74 60

Baylo, Asmalımescit Mahallesi Meşrutiyet Caddesi No.107A, Beyoğlu, P: (0212) 243 60 18

Lokal,Tünel Meydanı No.186/A, Tünel; P: (0212) 245 40 28

Parantez,Asmalımescit Mahallesi Sofyalı Jurnal Sokak No. 1, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 245 75 13

Küçük Otto, Asmalımescit Mahallesi Şehbender Sokak No. 5/1, Asmalımescit; P: (0212) 292 70 15

MiniMüzikhol,Sıraselviler Caddesi Soğancı Sokak No: 7 D: 1, Cihangir

Point Hotel Barbaros, Yıldız Posta Caddesi No. 29, Esentepe; P: (0212) 337 30 00

Billed as a neighborhood bar and bistro, Baylo Bistro & Bar was opened by a team of two ladies, Güldal Seçener and Neslihan Sağlamer, who saw a need for down-to-earth drinking and dining in Istanbul. Located on Meşrutiyet Caddesi (a few steps away from Bird), this is an ideal date destination, with seductive lighting, historic setting, and tables-for-two (perfect for tête-à-têtes).

The building that Baylo is situated in was built in the 1870s by the Kamondo family (you may have heard of them from the famous Kamondo staircase in Karaköy). Before Baylo opened its doors in October 2011, the building went under a serious three-year restoration. Now, Baylo’s interior is the ideal mix of the old and the new: the ceiling and walls carry the worn-out glory of the old days, the antique mirror by the bar gives a sense of beautiful imperfection, while the modern seating and tableware remind us that we’re in fact dining in the 21^st century.

One of the highlights of the décor is the use of aged brass, which is particularly appealing at the bar. Large, white candles and golden candlesticks are placed all around the venue. An earlier work of the young Turkish artist Lara Kamhi hangs on one wall, a long mirror with a black-and-white photo of old Istanbul in the middle hangs on another.

Right by that mirror is the only table that can seat 8-10 people. Inside, by the bar, there are three tables for two. The outdoor dining area, which has five round tables for 2-4 people, is well-heated, so all the tables are filled, even on cold days. The bar, which features black-and-brown bar stools by Aziz Sarıyer of Derin Design, is designed to allow for comfortable seating while eating.

The venue carries a slightly nostalgic, quite romantic, and all in all, a very comforting feel - all thanks to Bülent Güngör of B-Design. When you step inside, Baylo’s interior centers on the bar, yet the menu offers much more than finger food. The something-for-everyone menu offers soup of the day (which is always something out of the ordinary like chestnut, pea, carrot, or beetroot soup), salads (caprese salad, goat cheese salad, and salmon salad), charcuterie plate, mains (Super Hamburger, Chicken Schnitzel, Pork Sausage) and more, all prepared by the young and talented Berk Baysan.

On our visit to Baylo on a Thursday evening, we went for the mixed charcuterie plate, which was a delicious serving of gouda, roquefort, brie, parmesan, gruyere cheese from Kars, bresaola, prosciutto, ham, smoked beef, and Italian Salami. This generous charcuterie plate was a great starter for two. If you’re a vegetarian, you can opt for the cheese plate.

Following an appetizing mix of cheese and meat, I had the beetroot soup, which, when sprinkled with a generous amount of parmesan, is truly divine. For mains, I opted for the Tagliata. Topped with fresh arugula, the beef tenderloin slices were cooked to perfection. The home-made fries that it came with were scrumptious – they are on the thin line between fries and chips – round and very crispy, with a surprisingly soft center. Yum times ten!

Another item that is sure to dazzle is the Super Hamburger, made with a variety of spices and served in ciabatta bread with home-made fries. Since the venue is quite new, additions to the menu are soon to be finalized – like the fırın makarna (oven-baked pasta), a typical home-made dish, which will be offered with a Baylo twist.

Much like the menu, the crowd is a pleasant mix as well - mostly 30+ during the week but slightly younger on weekends. The venue starts to fill up at around 7:30pm and there’s a nice circulation from then on. Everybody is smartly dressed without being particularly over-dressed, casual but not in an I-just-rolled-out-of-bed look. The venue has a steady stream of its frequenters, neighborhood professionals, and tourists - in for a cocktail with a colleague by the bar, dinner and longed-for chats, or the glorious charcuterie plate and a glass of wine.

A rotating group of five female DJs are in charge of the turntable on Fridays and Saturdays (and sometimes during the week), playing whatever suits the mood on a particular day, from 80s to lounge, from indie rock to nu jazz. A London-based DJ company is in charge of the music when the girls are not around, playing a range of unfamiliar songs that instantly feel familiar. Although the venue never turns into a full-blown club, the music picks up after 10:30pm, and people start to dance around, especially on weekends.

If you’re in for the post-dinner bar scene, try the Green Apple Martini, which is ideal for those after a sweet cocktail, or the Baylo Rose, made with prosecco and martini rosato, if you’re after something bitter.

If you live or work near Şişhane, make sure you try this inviting neighborhood bar for an after-work get-together. If not, rest assured that Baylo’s cuisine and atmosphere create a lush pairing that is well-worth the trip.

Baylo Bistro & Bar, Asmalımescit Mahallesi Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 107A, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 243 60 18

If one of your New Year’s resolutions involves getting out and going to more concerts this year, then you’re in luck: 2012 promises to be a great year for music lovers in Istanbul. Here is a list of some not-to-be-missed upcoming concerts, courtesy of The Guide’s editorial staff.

To hear a tried and true rock band:

Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Red Hot Chili Peppers most likely need no introduction. This alternative band from LA has been going strong for nearly three decades now since its founding in 1983, and has turned out one great hit after another: “Otherside,” “Under the Bridge,” “Californication,” and many more. The Red Hot Chili Peppers will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year; you surely don’t want to miss your chance to see them live in Istanbul. Stay tuned for the location of this concert.

When:September 13, time TBA

Where:TBA

How much: TBA

To hear an Anglophone songstress from Spain:

Russian Red

Russian Red is the colorful stage name of young Spanish singer/songwriter Lourdes Hernández, who writes and performs her own songs entirely in English. (Her moniker is not an instance of nostalgic Communist chic but refers to the shade of lipstick Hernández typically wears). Russian Red – who will represent her native Spain at this year’s Eurovision contest in Azerbaijan – is in Turkey for the first time thanks to Avea’s Escape to Music series, and will enthrall audiences at Garajistanbul with well-loved songs like “The Sun The Trees” and “I Hate You But I Love You.”

When:January 13, 10:00pm

Where:Garajistanbul

How much: From Biletix: 45 TL.

To see a 60s acting and singing legend:

Jane Birkin sings Serge Gainsbourg “Via Japan”

The protean Jane Birkin is a living legend of 60s London, known for her modelling, her roles in films like Antonioni’s Blowup, and – last but not least – her romantic relationship and musical collaboration with French musician Serge Gainsbourg. Unfortunately Gainsbourg is no longer with us, but you surely don’t want to pass up the chance to see Birkin performing songs like her and Gainsbourg’s duet “Je t’aime...moi non plus” (I love you...neither do I), as well as other classic songs by the late great singer. Birkin will be accompanied by an ensemble of Japanese musicians consisting of Nobuyuki Nakajima on piano, Hoshiko Yamane on violin, Ichiro Onoe on drums, and Takuma Sakamoto on horns. All proceeds from this concert will benefit the victims of the 2011 tsunami in Japan.

When:January 18, January 19, 9:30pm

Where:Babylon

How much: January 18:From the venue: 180 TL (table); 100 TL (standing).From Biletix: 195 TL (table); 110 TL (standing); 88 TL (standing). January 19: From the venue: 180 TL (table); 100 TL (standing); 50 TL (students).From Biletix: 195 TL (table); 110 TL (standing); 88 TL (standing).

For fans of shoegaze:

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart

Shoegaze isn’t dead...and The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, the hot new shoegaze/dreampop foursome from New York City, are here to prove it. Described by the New York Times as “irrepressibly light, a band at ease with melody and softness,” The Pains of Being Pure at Heart have been winning audiences over with their sound that puts you into a reverie without ever becoming somnolent. Come to Babylon and give the group (consisting of singer Kip Berman, singer/keyboardist Peggy Wang, bass player Alex Naidus, and drummer Kurt Feldman) the warm welcome it deserves.

After the concert there will be an Indie Club party hosted by DJ Mabbas of Radio Eksen.

When:January 20, 10:30pm

Where:Babylon

How much: From the venue: 40 TL; 35 TL. From Biletix: 44.50 TL; 39 TL.

To see a great indie act from Liverpool:

Robots in Disguise

The decade-old indie duo known as Robots in Disguise consists of two women from Liverpool, UK: guitarist/vocalist Dee Plume and bassist/vocalist Sue Denim (not their real names). Shrinking violets they’re not: Plume and Denim’s onstage performances are every bit as bold and in-your-face as their tough, resilient vocals. The group’s third album, We’re in the Music Biz, came out in 2008, and they’re currently hard at work on a fourth one. If you’d like a preview of what this eagerly-anticipated release will be like, all you need to do is come to Salon İKSV to hear Plume and Denim live.

When:January 28, 10:30pm

Where:Salon İKSV

How much: From the venue: 35 TL; 25 TL (students). From Biletix: 39.50 TL; 28 TL (students).

To hear a voice from the American South:

Cat Power

Cat Power is the stage name of the versatile Charlyn Marie Marshall, from Atlanta, Georgia, who over a twenty year career has composed nine albums and two EP’s, and played in several movies such as Wong Kar-Wai’s My Blueberry Nights. Marshall’s soulful vocals, combined with her raw, minimalist guitar sounds have earned her great critical acclaim. She’s especially noted for her interpretations of Bob Dylan’s “Hard Times in New York Town” and Oasis’s “Wonderwall.”

When: February 9, 9:00 PM

Where: Garajistanbul

How much: From Biletix: 55 TL; 45 TL.

To hear a little-known musical instrument:

Gheorghe Zamfir

Gheorghe Zamfir, a.k.a. “The Master of the Pan Flute,” started his musical journey at the age of 14 in Romania. After being discovered by Swiss organist Marcel Cellier, Zamfir moved to Western Europe, where he began to perform on film soundtracks such as Picnic at Hanging Rock, Once Upon A Time In America, The Karate Kid,and more recently Kill Bill Vol. 1. Zamfir is also known for expanding the traditional Romanian pan flute from 20 to 30 pipes.

When: February 13, 8:30pm

Where: Caddebostan Kültür Merkezi

How much: From thevenue: 89 TL, 69 TL (students). From Biletix: 112 TL, 72 TL (students).

To hear a vintage 70s punk band:

Buzzcocks

Here’s your chance to see a punk legend live on stage! The Buzzcocks came together in 1975, and soon became one of the most important punk bands around, sharing the stage with other legends like the Sex Pistols, Siouxsie and The Banshees, The Clash, and The Damned at the 100 Club Punk Festival. The Buzzcocks’ positive, upbeat music is sometimes referred to as “pop punk.” Don’t miss your chance to see their original line-up, including Pete Shelley and Steve Diggle, live at Babylon.

There will be a warm-up and an after-party with a DJ Set by Rashit.

When: February 15, 9:30pm

Where: Babylon

How much: From the venue: 50 TL, 40 TL (students). From Biletix: 55.50 TL.

For fans of reggae:

The Wailers

1963 was the year that Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer came together to form The Wailers, a legendary Jamaican Ska / Rocksteady / Reggae band that would go on to sell 250 million albums over the next four decades. After Marley’s death, The Wailers carried on his legacy, with members like Aston Barrett and new vocalist Koolant, uniting millions of people worldwide with their rhythmic sounds. It would be a crime for any reggae fan not to go see The Wailers perform in Istanbul – get your tickets today.

When: February 15, 9:00pm

Where: Küçükçiftlik Park

How much: From Mephisto Kitabevi (Beyoğlu), Zihni Müzik (Kadıköy), Zero Müzik (Kadıköy): 20 TL. From Biletix: 24 TL.

To hear a great band from Scandinavia:

Mando Diao

Don’t waste your time trying to figure out what “Mando Diao” means. The name of this Swedish foursome is the whimsical invention of founding member Björn Dixgård. The band picked up speed when Dixgård, together with vocalist/guitarist Gustaf Norén, supposedly embarked on a marathon 14-month songwriting session in a beach house in the late 90s. It was only a matter of time before they signed on to the EMI Sweden label and released their first album, 2002’s Bring’Em In. Their latest album, Give me Fire,came out in 2009, and was produced by the Salla Salazar from the hip-hop band The Latin Kings.

When: February 18, 9:00pm

Where: Küçükçiftlik Park

How much: From Biletix: 40 TL.

To hear an American indie success story:

St. Vincent

Traveling back and forth between indie-rock and jazz, Annie Clark, better known by her stage name St. Vincent, recorded her first album Marry Me in 2007 together with Brian Teasley (The Polyphonic Spree) and David Bowie’s pianist Mike Garson. Her second album Actors had such great reviews (including from Bowie himself) that St. Vincent’s success was assured. St. Vincent now comes to Istanbul, ready to perform her songs, including some from her latest album, last year’s Strange Mercy.

When: February 21, 9:30pm

Where: Salon İKSV

How much: From the venue: 35 TL, 25 TL (students). From Biletix: 39.50 TL, 28 TL (students).

To hear an up-and-coming young talent:

Selah Sue

Often compared to Amy Winehouse and Adele, Selah Sue is a young talent from Belgium inspired by artists such as Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill. Her major breakthrough followed after her collaboration with Cee Lo Green on his album The Lady Killer, and soon she was performing and major international festivals such as Lowlands, Sziget, and the North Sea Jazz Festival. Selah Sue will now perform in Turkey for the first time as part of the Garanti Caz Yeşili concerts. Don’t miss out.

When: February 23, 9:30pm

Where: Babylon

How much: From the venue: 60 TL, 40 TL (students). From Biletix: 66.50 TL; 55.50 TL; 44.50 TL.

For jazz aficionados:

Brad Mehldau Trio

Known for his innovative and experimental compositions, jazz pianist Brad Mehldau will be the second guest musician in İş Sanat’s jazz series. Mehldau is widely known among jazz aficionados for his unique blend of jazz with rock and classical music; he has recorded arrangements of works by Nick Drake, The Beatles, Radiohead and Paul Simon. Mehldau will play play together with the other two members of his trio: Larry Grenadier on bass and Jeff Ballard on drums/percussion. Come to İş Sanat and hear them live on the 8th of March.

When: March 8, 8:00pm

Where: İş Sanat

How much: From Biletix: 55.50 TL; 50 TL; 39 TL; 34 TL (students); 22.50 TL (students).

To hear a unique mixture of East and West:

Duisburg Philharmonic Orchestra & Erdal Akkaya

The Duisburg Philharmonic Orchestra, with a 134-year-old history, is one of the most prestigious orchestras in Germany. The orchestra, currently directed by Hendrik Vestmann, will perform Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4 for audiences at Hagia Irene. Joining the Duisburg Philharmonic will be Turkish bağlama master Erdal Akkaya, with his own original compositions arranged for orchestra. All profits from this concert entitled Doğu’dan Batıya Sesler (Sounds from East to West) will be donated to Türkiye Sakatlar Derneği’s housing initiative for the disabled in Balıkesir.

When: March 10, 8:00pm

Where: Hagia Irene

How much: From Biletix: 100 TL; 83 TL; 61 TL; 34 TL.

To hear a hardcore DJ:

The Gaslamp Killer

After last summer’s Rock ‘n’ Coke performance, DJ Gaslamp Killer will return to Istanbul on the 10th of March, to perform at Babylon. The Killer’s first influences include musicians like Jimi Hendrix, Dr. Dre and DJ Shadow. The Killer is the founder of LA’s Low End Theory theme party, a popular event which still continues today. Since the release of his latest EP Death Gate (2010), The Killer hasn’t been sitting still but has been touring at internationally renowned festivals like Coachella, Reworks and Decibel. His set at Babylon will include old Turkish funk and rock samples – we’re sure it will be a night to remember.

When: March 10, 12:00am

Where: Babylon

How much: From the venue:35 TL, 25 TL. From Biletix: 39 TL.

For fans of electronica:

Modeselektor

Modeselektor, a duo consisting of Gernot Bronsert and Sebastian Szary, is one of Germany’s best-known electronic bands. Founded in 1990s Berlin, in 2001 the group signed onto the BPitch Control label, with whom they’ve released the albums Hello Mom!, Happy Birthday!, and Moderat. In the group’s own words: “Modeselektor emerged out of the tangle of post-wall Berlin, monkey men with beats clenched between their teeth and ideas that would soon force music journalists to make up new words: bastard dancehall, euro crunk, acid rap, big bass techno, labstyle, happy metal, psychedelic electro.” If that sounds like your cup of tea, come to Babylon on March 16th.

When:March 16

Where:Babylon

How Much: TBA

For those in need of a feel-good concert:

Bobby McFerrin

American singer Bobby McFerrin rose to fame with his 1988 song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” which won him numerous awards at the 1989 Grammys. In fact, the versatile McFerrin, who has over a dozen albums to his name, is not only a singer but also performs regularly as a guest conductor with major symphony orchestras in the US and Europe. McFerrin’s upbeat, spontaneous personality is hard not to like. In his own words: “Listening to Bobby McFerrin sing may be hazardous to your preconceptions. Side effects may include unparalleled joy, a new perspective on creativity, rejection of the predictable, and a sudden, irreversible urge to lead a more spontaneous existence.” Need we say more?

When:March 28, 8:00 PM

Where:İş Sanat

How Much: From Biletix:117 TL; 107 TL; 92 TL; 77 TL (discount); 20 TL (students).

To hear the sounds of West Africa:

Salif Keita

Malian singer Salif Keita, known as the “Golden Voice of Africa,” became well known in the 70s as a member of the Malian group Les Ambassadeurs, later embarking on a successful solo career, the latest product of which is his 2009 album La Différence. Keita’s message of hope and tolerance is a good accompaniment to his singing, which has won him a huge fan base internationally. In Keita’s words, “Happiness isn’t for tomorrow; it starts here and now.”

When:April 3

Where:Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall

How much:TBA

To see a one-of-a-kind electronic act from the UK:

Gold Panda

Gold Panda is the stage name of UK musician and producer Derwin Schlecker, whose song “Quitters Raga” made number 75 of Pitchfork magazine’s Top 100 Tracks of 2009. Of his 2010 debut album Lucky Shiner, the UK’s Guardian newspaper has written: “It's an album that sits on a pleasant fence between invention and homeliness. Armed with an ear for a skilful beat and an array of weird samples, it's a mixture the Peckham-born producer expertly facilitates.” Curious? Then come to Babylon on April 20th to see Gold Panda in the flesh.

When:April 20

Where:Babylon

How much:TBA

To see a Latin musical legend:

Susana Baca

The singer Susana Baca is the current Minister of Culture in her native Peru, a fitting honor for a musician whose long and productive career has been instrumental in bringing Afro-Peruvian music to the world’s attention. Baca has over a dozen albums to her name, including her 2002 Latin Grammy-winning Lamento Negro; she attaches particular importance to the lyrics of her songs and has put to music poems by eminent Latin American poets like her countryman Cesar Vallejo. Her upcoming concert in Istanbul – which will take place at the unique location of Hagia Irene – promises to be an enthralling experience.

When:April 27, 8:00 PM

Where:Hagia Irene

How much: From Biletix: 220 TL; 165 TL; 133 TL; 112 TL; 89.50 TL; 56.50 TL.

To hear some great psychedelic rock:

Death in Vegas

The two core members of the psychedelic/electronic UK band known as Death in Vegas are Richard Fearless and Tim Holmes. From their 1997 debut album Dead Elvis to last year’s Trans-Love Energies, Death in Vegas have consistently shown that they have their fingers on the musical pulse of contemporary audiences. Come give them a warm welcome as they perform in Turkey for the first time. P.S. Fans of Sophia Coppola’s Lost in Translation will recognize the track “Girls”...

When:April 28, 11:30 PM

Where:Babylon

How much:From the venue: 45 TL (standing); 30 TL (students). From Biletix: 50 TL.

To hear a classical concert pure and simple:

BBC Philharmonic

The BBC Philharmonic, regarded as one of the UK’s best symphony orchestras, was founded in Manchester in 1934 as the BBC Northern Orchestra, and performs regularly on BBC Radio 3. The orchestra has eagerly embraced 21st century technology, having made its performances of all of Beethoven’s nine symphonies available for download in 2005. Spanish conductor Juanjo Mena has taken up the Philharmonic’s baton for the 2011/12 season. Their concert program at İş Sanat will consist of Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1 in E Flat Major, and Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 in C Sharp Minor, with cello playing by accomplished cellist Sol Gabetta.

When:May 14, 8:00 PM

Where:İş Sanat

How much:From Biletix: 127 TL; 112 TL; 92 TL; 77 TL (discount); 22.50 TL (students).

Places to Eat in Taksim

ÇokÇokThai:ÇokÇok Thai has put together a four-course meal of Thai favorites and traditional dishes. The set menu will feature coconut milk chicken soup or tiger prawn soup, Thai fish cakes, tiger prawn satay, steamed sea bass and chicken in curry sauce or green curry chicken or beef or tiger prawns with garlic sauce, and chocolate cake. Although ÇokÇok Thai is a restaurant, there’ll be some NYE entertainment after dinner. A DJ will play a mix of popular dance songs with lots of Turkish pop songs after 11:00pm. The price is 99 Euros per person including unlimited local and standard international drinks. Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 51, Tepebaşı; P: (0212) 292 64 96

Meze By Lemon Tree:The set menu at Meze by Lemon Treefeatures cold quail cutlets with sweet mustard foam, grouper ceviche marinated with grapefruit and lime juices, snail stew with plums and pine nuts, zucchini blossoms stuffed with seafood, trio of Aegean wild greens, stuffed chard leaves, lamb sirloin braised in milk with lemon-flavored rice, tropical fruits sautéed with cognac served with vanilla ice-cream. The price of the set menu is150 TLper person including unlimited local drinks (only select brands of wine,rakı, and beer).Asmalımescit Mahallesi Meşrutiyet Caddesi 83/B, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 252 83 02

La BriseBrasserie:The set menu at La Brise Brasserie features pumpkin soup, turkey quiche, green salad with pomegranate, chicken liver pate with quince marmalade, charcuterie plate, honey and ginger glazed roast turkey with bread sauce and aromatic rice, grilled fillet steak with mushroom sauce and dauphinoise potatoes, smoked pork chops with apple sauce and almond croquette, white chocolate mousse with chestnut puree, crème brûlée with winter fruits and lemon ice-cream. The price of the set menu is 150 TL excluding drinks. Asmalımescit Sokak No. 28, Asmalımescit; P:(0212) 244 48 46

Places to Party in Taksim

11:11:11:11 will be filled with DJs (Junior, Tangun, Cure-Shot, Fuchs, Cervus, Gürhan) playing a mix of groovy, funky, sexy house and tech house. There will be confetti guns and confetti rain, so get ready for a hardcore party that will last until dawn. Entrance is 50 TL including one drink. If going with a group, it’s recommended that you book a stand. The prices for stands and VIP areas start at 500 TL for five people, including juices, energy drinks, snacks, and finger foods for those who get there early. Meşrutiyet Caddesi 69, Tepebaşı; P:(0212) 244 88 34

Babylon:Babylon is hosting an Oldies But Goldies “3D PARTY” spread over Babylon, Üst Kat, and Babylon Lounge. Murat Beşer and Mabbas will be at Babylon to play the ultimate classics from Depeche Mode, The Cure, Madonna, A-Ha, Chic, Duran Duran, Snap, Cyndi Lauper, ABBA, Donna Summer, James Brown, Nena, Culture Club, U2, Blondie, The Smiths, Wham!, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Michael Jackson, and The Clash. Engin Eraydın will also be there with his nostalgic visual show. Those at Babylon Lounge will dance to the best of disco music while those at Üst Kat will dance to the 90s.The party starts at 10:00pm, and the price is 66.50 TL. Get your tickets from Biletix before they run out.

Babylon; Seyhbender Sokak No: 3, Tünel; P: (0212) 292 73 68

Üst Kat andBabylon Lounge; Jurnal Sokak No. 4, Asmalımescit; P:(0212) 245 38 00

Ghetto:DJs Dearhead, Mr. Sür, and dYG will be at Ghetto playing deep electro house, deep house, Tech-house, disco, and electronica from 10:00pm onwards. The price is 56 TL including a glass of prosecco. Get your tickets from Biletix before they run out. Kalyoncu Kulluk Sokak No. 10, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 251 75 01

The Hall: The Hallis hosting Burn presents: ROUTE 2012 with a lineup of 15 House, Tech-house, Deep-house, Trance, Techno DJs: BeeGee, Murat Uncuoğlu, U.F.U.K, UHR, Ferhat Albayrak, Alican Yüksel, Mert Yücel, İlker Aksungar, Altan Balgır, Orkun Bozdemir, Ömür Sarı, Doğuş Çabakçor, Sinan Çatak, Nurettin Çolak, and Doruk Güralp. The night will kick off around 09:00pm and last until 05:00am. Regular entrance is56 TL, VIP entrance is112 TL(which will allow you to get a VIP bracelet that allows entrance to VIP areas with less crowd), and a Bistro entrance is575 TLfor four people, including a bottle of vodka, four energy drinks, and snacks. You can get your tickets through Biletix.

Tomtom Sokak:Barhopping at its best will take place at Tomtom Sokak. You’ll get one ticket that will allow entrance to five different venues with five different genres of music. There will be disco music at Indigo, worldwide chart toppers of the 80s and 90s at Indigo Pub, the best of 80s Turkish songs at Alt, classic rock pieces at We, and a mix of upbeat songs at Tektekçi. The night will kick off at 09:00pm and continue until 05:00am. Entrance to five separate venues is 40 TL, and tickets are sold through Biletix. All these venues are located next to each other in Tomtom Mahallesi, Akarsu/Acara Sokak, Galatasaray.

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Budget-friendly with a Bosphorus view:Indulge in a seven-course menu, a fantastic Bosphorus view, and serious NYE entertainment at El Beso Restaurant & Club. The set dinner menu includes sea bass wrapped in bacon, crab cake, turkey and seasoned rice, limoncello, lamb shank or turbot, and chocolate mousse or quince dessert. After-dinner entertainment features a live music performance by Mine (singing the best of Latin and Turkish pop), a percussion show, DJ Ufuk, and UHR. All this for 250 TL (including all local and standard international drinks). Muallim Naci Caddesi No.64/D, Kuruçeşme; P: (0212) 287 57 59

Turkish Tavern fun minus the Taksim crowd: Start the New Year with a classic Turkish experience at Kalamata Meyhanesi.Meze options are on offer, including cheese, pickles, salad, chargrilled pepper, salted bonito, stuffed vine leaves, shrimp-avocado rolls, Circassian chicken, Albanian fried liver, celery with orange,and pastırma (Turkish pastrami). The NYE-special course is the roasted turkey served with seasoned rice. Desserts include quince dessert and pumpkin dessert. Late-night snack is the classic tripe soup, a very good hangover prevention method. Dinner starts at 08:00pm, live Greek and Turkish music by Kota & Tuba duo starts at 09:00pm and continues until around 03:00pm. Expect a belly dancer to show up around midnight. For those who want to keep going, there’ll be music playing until the wee hours of the morning. All this for 220 TL including local drinks. Making a reservation before the 20th of December is recommended. Süleyman Seba Caddesi No. 45, Akaretler. P: (0212) 258 87 88

Barhop without getting in traffic:Nupera is a complex of three restaurants that turn into clubs around midnight. Which means—barhopping without getting in line, getting in traffic, or getting cold. This is crucial—especially on New Year’s Eve. So, with Nupera, you’ve got three options:

Auf:The set menu features pumpkin soup, salad with prosecco and caviar, smoked salmon, grapefruit sorbet, roasted turkey or steak, seasoned rice or risotto with pumpkin, apple-pomegranate tatin with vanilla ice-cream, coffee-and-champagne truffle, and macaroons. Dinner is served between 08:00pm and 11:30pm. The price is 150 TL per person including all wine ordered before 11:30pm. DJ Tolga Saka will take you through the rest of the night.

67:The set menu includes chestnut and cognac soup; foie gras; shrimp with risotto or mille-feuille with camembert, Roquefort, walnuts, and honey; green apple sorbet; lamb chops with mashed potatoes or salmon or grilled vegetable calzone; and baklava. Dinner is served between 08:00pm and 11:30pm. The price is 180 TL per person including a glass of prosecco and all wine ordered before 11:30pm. After 12:00am, DJ Ulaş Yağmur will make sure you don’t rest for a minute.

LilBitz:The set menu includes duck stock and octopus soup with shrimp bisque; Turkey burger and blackberry chutney with mini potato crisps; purslane salad with fresh herbs, goat cheese, and beetroot; hibiscus and passion fruit sherbet shots; crispy brain with turmeric, cucumber yogurt, and mint jellies; shrimp on sirloin powder with corn and truffle cream, and calamari ink crisps; and vodka-filled Turkish delights with elderflower and lavender. Unlimited beer, wine, and rakı as well as 15\\\\\\\\% off on LilBitz cocktails until 11:30pm. The price for this gourmet NYE dinner, followed by the classic LilBitz mix of upbeat dance songs, is a mere 200 TL.

Nupera; Meşrutiyet Caddesi No.67, Tepebaşı; P: (0212) 245 60 70

Feel the beat at the heart of the city:Enjoy the magnificent Istanbul views, have a delicious dinner, and have some serious fun at 360istanbul. After some champagne and tasty little bites, the set dinner menu will include salmon, lobster, chestnut sorbet, turbot with cauliflower puree and mastic sauce or veal ribs with eggplant risotto and red wine sauce, and Turkish dessert platter. The night will get going with the live performance of Desaparecidos. (You've definitely heard of them;this songwas quite popular a few years back.) Later in the night, a DJ will get behind the deck to continue the party with popular house music. The pricing hasn’t been finalized but expect something north of 300TL. İstiklal Caddesi No.311, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 251 10 42

Bellydance your way into the New Year: Start the New Year with luscious dance shows and food atBeyrouth. Dinner menu features salmon roll with vine leaves, Lebanese meze platter, shepherd’s salad, grilled Haloumi cheese, crunchy shrimp, risotto with eggplant, lahmacun (Turksih-style pizza), beef and chicken on skewers, roasted lamb, grilled sea bass, lobster. Desserts include tiramisu, baklava, and revani (semolina pastry). Post-dinner entertainment includes intoxicating belly dancing shows by both male and female dancers, followed by an upbeat mix of popular Turkish and international songs. The night, which gets going at 08:00pm, will cost you 375 TL plus 10\\\\\\\\% service charge by credit card or 340 TL plus 10\\\\\\\\% service charge if you pay cash, including unlimited select local brands of wine, beer, rakı, and soft drinks. If you want, pay an extra 75 TL to get unlimited international drinks (select brands only). Act fast – reservations close on the 15th of December! Süleyman Seba Caddesi No:42-46, Akaretler; P:(0212) 236 50 17

Dress to impress:Expect an excellent Mediterranean set menu at Vogue for 350 TL including unlimited local and standard international drinks. Dinner starts at 08:00pm and the night gets going with a DJ performance. Good music, great food, fantastic Bosphorus view. What more would you want for New Year’s Eve? Süleyman Seba Caddesi BJK Plaza A Blok, Akaretler; P: (0212) 227 44 04

See and be seen on NYE: Anjelique is also hosting a New Year’s Eve party with a yet-to-be-disclosed set menu and partying until dawn. All for 300 TL, including all local and standard international drinks. Salhane Sokak No. 5, Ortaköy; P: (0212) 327 28 44

Tough Luck: Ulus 29has once again put together a fantastic menu for New Year’s Eve but we won’t brag about it too much because it’s already full. Better luck next year!

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Why throw a party? Because you landed your dream job, you dumped your annoying-ex, because it’s not Halloween and you want to dress up for fun, or for ordinary reasons like your birthday, graduation, bachelor or bachelorette party.

Why rent a place to throw a party? No waiting in line, no organizational hassles, lots of privacy, and only the music you want to dance to.Or simply because your place is too small and your housemate is slightly obsessive-compulsive.

Which venues to rent? Four Floors and In the Van are great options.

In the Vanoffers In the Van Small and In the Van Odakule. In the Van Small is—you guessed it—a smaller venue than In the Van Odakule. It’s more like a mini club that can take up to 50 people, whereas In the Van Odakule is decorated more like a house, and can take up to 100 people. Please note that the minimum number of guests for both locations is 30. The team behind In the Van takes care of everything for you: the drinks, the music (DJ), lights and sound system, decoration, invites. And the best part is you don’t have to worry about the morning-after clean-up session! The music is arranged by the in-house DJs according to your taste. If you want to nibble on some finger food, they can arrange that as well. Parties are held any day of the week, starting at 09:00pm and lasting until 02:00am. The venue rental is 250 TL for In the Van Small and 500 TL for In the Van Odakule. The pricing for alcohol is per person: 50 TL for 3 local or 2 international drinks, 75 TL for unlimited local drinks, 125 TL for unlimited international drinks. Call In the Van for more info on pricing.

In the Van;İstiklal Caddesi Küçükparkkapı Abdullah Sk. No. 15/A, Beyoğlu; P: (0212)293 55 71

Owned by nightlife guru Murat Topaloğlu, 4 Floors is a boutique hotel that features a fantastic penthouse, which you can rent out for a party. Topaloğlu doesn’t offer a set package; he first talks to the possible future host of the party, figures out what they are after, and uses his know-how to create an event catered to their needs. He only reserves the house parties at 4 Floors for people with similar understandings of entertainment as his, so it’s a bit exclusive. If you pass the test, you can throw a party with up to 25 people, starting as early as 07:00pm and continuing until around 03:00am. A few lucky ones can crash there too. After all, it is a hotel.

4 Floors;Tomtom mahellesi Kumbaracı Yokuşu Tercüman Çıkmazı No. 20, Beyoğlu; P: (0532) 497 79 21

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The experimental Icelandic band Múm was in Istanbul at Salon IKSV on the 18^th and 19^th of October for two nights of impressive music.

Hailing from Iceland, Múm is one of the country’s best indie bands, which has been active since 1997 with its original members Gunnar Örn Tynes and Örvar Þóreyjarson Smárason. This experimental group blends a variety of genres, especially playing with electronica and folktronica.

If you are familiar with Icelandic music and musicians, such as Björk and Sigur Rós, you probablyknow Múm and are already a fan. But if you have never come across Múm and stepped into their enchanted world of music before, here is the amazing concert experience that the Istanbul audience had on the first night of Múm’s performance at Salon IKSV.

In the past year, Salon IKSV has become a hot spot for concerts, with its ambiance and great choice of musicians. And the venue was home to yet another great night during the Múm concert. For the Icelandic band, the concert area was decorated like a jazz bar with round black tables and chairs directly facing the stage; the dark color of the walls was softened with red lights, creating an intimate atmosphere.

Anticipation was growing stronger right before the concert began as the concert area was so dark that nothing on the stage was visible to the audience. Finally the stage got lit with green, blue, and yellow lights, which resembled the northern lights, and along with the lights appeared seven talented musicians and their various instruments placed all around the stage.

Gunnar Örn Tynes was on guitar, piano, and vocals and Örvar Þóreyjarson Smárason was on electric guitar, electric keyboard, and vocals. Róbert Reynissonwas on guitar and vocals; Eiríkur Orri Olafsson was on trumpet, electric piano, and moog; Hildur Gudnadottir was on cello, ukulele, violin, harmonica, and vocals; Mr.Silla was on ukulele, harmonica, electronic guitar, and vocals; and Samuli Kosminen was on drums and percussion.

Even before they started playing, the stage and the band’s energy gave signals that the concert would feel like a jam session. And it truly did!

Thesongsperformed in the concert represented a great selection from Múm's last two albums Go Go Smear the Poison Ivy and Sing Along Songs You Don't Know!.The order of the songs was also arrangedperfectly; slow songs and vibrant songs were coming one after the other,including “Whistle for Rain,” “Marmalade Fires,” and “Hullaballabalu.”

The slower songs called the audience into naive fairy tales, whereas the upbeat songs kept them tapping their feet. The band's energy and interaction with the audience was also mesmerizing.I’m pretty sure thatat some point every woman in the audience was taken away by Örvar Þóreyjarson Smárason’s charm. He looked really cute playing a rectangular-shaped guitar!

Múm’s trademarks of soft, high-pitch vocals, electronic glitch beats, andflickering effects embedded into every song made for an inspiring night.Every sound and every movement seemed really theatrical under the lights falling on the stage. Every member of the band played at least two instruments, some traditional and some unconventional, and it was merely impossible not to be impressed by this talent and quality of music.

There is no denying that Múm is a group of amazing musicians who have a strikingpassion for making music in their unique and utopic way. If you’ve missed this impressive performance, be sure to buy a ticket if they are in town again! Just keep checking the Agenda section to stay up-to-date on what’ going on in Istanbul.

For those who weren’t there, here is what Múm is all about:

**

What? Cactus Flower Bellini

Ingredients? Cactus flower purée, ginger, and champagne

Where to drink it? Minyon

With whom? Boyfriend/girlfriend

Why drink it?To feel the love

When to drink it?Before a romantic dinner

How much?40 TL

Hint: Cactus flower purée is a rare ingredient that gives a unique taste to the drink.

**

What?Grapefruit Passion

Ingredients? Slices of grapefruit, cranberry juice, and superfine sugar

Where to drink it? Babylon

With whom? All by yourself

Why drink it?To get the night going

When to drink it?During a concert, when the gig is on fire

How much? 25TL

Hint:The combination of grapefruit and cranberry is perfect. It will blow you away!

**

What? The Name of Rose

Ingredients? Vodka, rosé wine, cranberry juice, rose marmalade, grape, and dried rose

Where to drink it? Vogue

With whom? Parents

Why drink it?To cheer up the family dinner

When to drink it?If someone starts telling embarrassing stories from your childhood, order this drink to change the subject

How much?35 TL

Hint:Molecular mixology is the hottest thing at the bar.

**

What?Fruit Caipiroska

Ingredients? Absolut raspberry, Absolut pear, Sobieski Apples, lemon juice, and sour cherry juice

Where to drink it? Lucca

With whom?Posh colleagues

Why drink it?You’re at Lucca. You don’t need a reason to drink.

When to drink it?After work

How much?25 TL

Hint: Don’t even dare to tell bartender Cevat to add more alcohol. The fruit-alcohol ratio is equal. No worries.

**

What?White Chocolate Truffle

Ingredients? Chambord, Absolut raspberry, white chocolate, and milk

Where to drink it? Bloom

With whom?A date

Why drink it?You are both stressed out. Just take a sip and relax.

When to drink it?At the beginning of the date

How much?25 TL

Hint:One is never enough.

Winter is fast approaching and a lot of summer venues are closing down and the winter venues are coming back. Some have already opened up for the new season like Bird, Babylon, and Ghetto. Here is what’s going on with the rest of the nightlife venues in Istanbul.

Although Anjelique’s restaurant section is closed, the club will stay open until 29th of October. So if you’ve been spending your nights out at Anjelique, make sure you head there for a few more nights. After 29^th of October, Anjelique will go under renovation, which is meant to end by the beginning of December.

Reina and Sortie are still open, but they will both be closing down sometime in October depending on the weather. During the winter season, only Reina Restaurant in Reina will stay open.

Suada is closing down next week, but Suda Kebap and G Balık will stay open throughout the winter.

Pera was filled with the young and the cool heading to Nu Teras to dance the night away. Soon enough people will start lining up for the winter venue Nu Pera. There is no set date for Nu Pera’s comeback—it all depends on the weather.

Wan-na in Kanyon has been closed for quite some time now. There is still no clarity about when or if it will open again.

There is no set date for Al Jamal Badawi’s (now Beirut) opening but if you’re after some belly dancing fun, Arabesque is open year round.

The moral of the story is that the future of Istanbul’s nightlife depends on the weather. Just keep following us to learn the latest.

Old-school fun:Istanbul is filled with a variety of Turkish taverns or meyhanes. For a traditional venue with a bit of history, head to Refik or YA & RE. For a more upscale meyhane with a contemporary twist, go to Münferit, Kalamata Meyhanesi, or Meze by Lemon Tree.

All in one:If you want to have dinner and do some serious booty shaking afterwards without getting in traffic, do it all in one venue. If a Bosphorus view is a must, Ulus 29 is a great choice. Bird in Taksim gets going after dinner with a full crowd as well. Keep in mind that Bird is quite small and popular so consider this place for a small get-together and way in advance.

Exotic: If a party is not a party without some glitzy belly dancing show, head to Nomads or Arabesque.

Small and cozy:For a more personal get-together with your favorite people, head to Juno or Minyon. Remember that you have the option to close down the entire venue at Minyon. But even if you don’t, there is always a party going on there.

The first rule of night-clubbing is never spend the whole night in one location. Eat in one place, then go dancing in another, to create the best “Dinner & Dance” match. Here are some great combinations of Istanbul restaurants and bars.

9 Ece Aksoy + Off Pera

9 Ece Aksoy is located in the multicultural Asmalımescit area, which hosts a number of great little restaurants; you just need to know where to look. As we stepped across the threshold into Ece Aksoy, it felt like coming home.This dinner venue from legendary restaurateur Ece Aksoy is a paradise of traditional, home-cooked food; make sure you try one of their olive oil dishes. If you’re lucky you might bump into Sezen Aksu and her entourage.

A ten-minute walk then takes you to Off Pera on Gönül Sokak towards the Tünel end of Asmalımescit. If small talk with bohemians, followed by dance moves with intellectual strangers, is what you’re looking for at a bar, Off Pera is the perfect choice right after having a tasty dinner at Ece Aksoy.

Bebek Balıkçı + Lucca

What determines a “must-have” list for an Istanbul fish restaurant? The view? The meze? The coolness of the crowd? Bebek Balıkçı combines all these things together, resulting in a great atmosphere at the town’s most posh, popular fish restaurant. As long as you don’t mind paying a fortune for a well cooked, highly fresh fish dish, go ahead and reserve a table.

Your night out in Bebek continues at another posh neighborhood spot, Lucca. It has been nine years and Lucca still hasn’t gone out of fashion. It’s a cool place to be for almost 24 hours a day. This time, try something different at Lucca. Its bartender Cevat Yıldırım strongy recommends his new creation Pear & Ginger, which includes Absolut Pear, fresh ginger, syrup, apple juice and lemon juice.

Karaköy Lokantası + Kiki

Every now and then you come across somewhere so beautiful that you don’t want anyone else to know about it. It could be a unique vintage store or a great place to eat. Karaköy Lokantası was once one of those places. Now, it has become one of the most popular spots in town to drink rakı with freshly made meze and tasty seafood. The only question is, where to go after an unique dinner at Karaköy Lokantası?

My advice is: head for the new cult classic in night life, Kiki. Regulars of Karaköy Lokantası and Kiki have one thing in common: they never care about seeing and being seen. Established by the lovely Burcu Denizer, this club is a magnet for cool people. Located on Sıraselviler Caddesi, Kiki is just a few miles away from Karaköy Lokantası. It’ll take just a few minutes by cab.

Akın Balık + Bar-hopping in Asmalı

Akın Balık is all about wooden chairs, nylon tablecloths and cheap-but-delicious fish. Located at the end of fish bazaar in Karaköy, Akın Balık is the right place to feel and smell the old city.

In the wake of the new restrictions on tables in Asmalımescit, bar-hopping in the neighborhood may not be exciting anymore. Never mind: hit the Asmalı bars once more for old times' sake. Otto, Lokal and Novo are still waiting for you with good music and good shots of liquor.

Peyote, Beyoğlu

Peyote has built a reputation for its cheap beer and good music. This perfect match made Peyote one of the city’s most preferred cult spots. Located in the heart of Beyoğlu, Peyote is the ideal venue to discover fresh sounds and up-and-coming bands. We suggest you head to Peyote before the weather gets cold to enjoy their terrace.

Beer: 7 – 11 TL

Cocktails: 18 TL

Shots: 8 – 12 TL

Parantez, Asmalımescit

The problem about Asmalımescit is obvious: too many bars and not enough time (or money) to hop through them all. One of the best kept secrets of Asmalımescit is Parantez—a bar where you can drink for hours without paying a fortune. You’ll find delicious cocktails accompanied by good music—anything from Michael Jackson to Duman. We suggest you try Orman Cini as a shot or cocktail—depending on whether you want to get buzzed or hammered. Served with slices of green apple, this house specialty is made with Bacardi, lemon, and sugar, and the glass is rimmed with cinnamon.

Beer: 6 – 15 TL

Cocktails: 13 – 19 TL

Shots: 5 – 20 TL

Arkaoda, Kadıköy

Arkaoda is a unique club where you can mingle with the laid-back crowd of Kadıköy. It’s not just the indie and alternative music but also the vintage feel of the venue that makes it so attractive. Another plus: entrance is free.

Beer: 6.5 – 11 TL

Cocktails: 14 – 20 TL

Shots: 5 – 14 TL

Kafe Pi

Kafe Pi is best described as the Starbucks of nightlife (only cheaper). You go there to hang out with your friends and have something to drink. You’ll find branches of Kafe Pi all around Istanbul—in Suadiye, Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş... The range of cocktails at Kafe Pi is quite impressive, and they are all freshly-made and beautifully presented. Try their Sweet Dreams cocktail, made of Archers, Absinthe, Baileys, and Granedine. If you don’t like your cocktails sweet, try our other favorite Juju (green banana liqueur, Garrone Rosso, lemon juice, and Gin).Sofyalı Sokak No.11 Asmalımescit; P:(0212) 245 76 10

Beer: 4 – 10 TL

Cocktails: 12 – 20 TL

Shots: 5 – 12 TL

It’s the company, the music, and the venue that makes a night out a great one. And with a great one, we mean one that you’ll barely remember. If you haven’t had one of those nights for a long time, here is where you need to go and what you need to drink:

Pear & Ginger Vodka at Lucca: Mingle with the sexy crowd at Lucca while sipping Chief bartender Cevat Yıldırım’s Pear & Ginger Vodka.

Rose Mojito at Nuteras: As you take in the fantastic Golden Horn view, try this refreshing Mojito made with white wine, red wine, Absolut vanilla, lime, and mint. It’s less sweet than a traditional mojito and can be enjoyed solo or with some nibbles.

Whiskey Sour at Sunset: Enjoy this classic cocktail at Sunset’s outdoor bar overlooking the spectacular Bosphorus views.

Lychee Martini at Zuma: After indulging in some serious Japanese food, get tropical with Lychee Martini’s sweet flavors.

Lynchburg Lemonade at Quick China: This classic cocktail’s mix of sweet and sour flavors pair very well with Asian food.

Passimoza at Müzedechanga: Made with passion fruit, orange juice, and champagne, Passimoza is a light, juicy, and sweet cocktail.

Rain Odaiba and Pam dor at Çok Çok Thai: With ginger and coriander flavors, Rain Odaiba is a slightly sour cocktail that matches well with Thai food. Pam dor is a bit on the spicy side and is best enjoyed before or after the meal.

Ras Passion at Ulus 29:Get ready to party till the wee hours of the night at Ulus 29 and let bartender Barış fix you up with Ras Passion, which is made with raspberry, passion fruit, vodka, champagne, and raspberry-flavored vodka.

Margarita at Picante: Have this classic cocktail at Picante. But remember what happens when you drink tequila!

Nu Teras: Nu Pera takes the party up to the roof each summer with Nu Teras, which affords a lovely view of the Golden Horn. Take your pick from their international menu or hit the bar for pre or post-dinner cocktails. To mingle with the toxicated crowd swaying the night away, go on the weekend.

360istanbul: The first and presumably the best of the 360 restaurant chain, 360istanbul is located on the top floor of the historic Mısır Apartment. Sip on a Satsuma Dream or two while enjoying the panoramic view of the city. If hunger strikes, a rich menu of Turkish cuisine with an international twist is available.

X Restaurant: Boasting magnificent views of the Golden Horn and the historical peninsula, X Restaurant’s eclectic décor coupled with a Turkish and Mediterranean fusion menu make for an ideal dinner spot. Make sure you catch a live performance at IKSV Salon while you’re there.

Vogue: Order a glass of bourbon and go with your instincts when it comes to selecting a cigar from the list. Add to that an excellent bar and stunning views of the Bosphorus. Need we say more?

Banyan:Look over the Bosphorus from the top floor of a historical building in Ortaköy. Enjoy some fantastic Asian fusion fare and move next door later in the night to join the party at Anjelique.

Ghetto Teras: Ghetto Teras has reinvented itself for the summer of 2011. Try their newly added frozen cocktails, chill out on their refurbished seats, and enjoy the fantastic view of Istanbul. You may want to lose yourself in the music but keep an ear out for the bell. When the bell rings, you’ll know that it’s time to get the reduced-priced drink for an hour.

Mikla: Mikla caused quite a splash when it opened in 2005 on the top floor of the Marmara Pera and is still making waves, due to its breathtaking views and unique niche in the fusion market—brilliant welding of Scandinavian and Turkish cuisine, thanks to the dual nationality of owner and head chef Mehmet Gürs. Grab your soon-to-be-girlfriend with you to Mikla, order their finest wine, and just look over at the incredible view. It will do the trick, trust us.

5. Kat: 5. Kat has managed to combine a delectable menu along with that sparkling view into a single Cihangir-sized package. Combining Italian dishes with Turkish undertones, the cuisine is relatively well mixed between the cultures, making your options much more expansive. No Istanbul spot is complete without a signature cocktail list—5. Kat boasts everything from Bailey’s coffee to the well-known Manhattan for those wishing to lengthen the evening.

Up Lounge: Just in case you haven’t been amazed by the nightlife in the fantastic Asmalımescit, Up Lounge should be the tip of the iceberg for anyone on the edge, focusing on Spanish cuisine with a gorgeous view of the Golden Horn that only Istanbulites can sample. Take a seat by the deck and try some of their signature Paella dishes. Even if you want to make this spot a stop on your nighttime trek instead of a destination, try the delectable Spanish collection of tapas and grilled dishes. For the more energetic groups, Friday nights take on a special atmosphere with live music courtesy of ethnic performer Brenda Berrin.

FIVE TIPS -How to get drinks from the bar?

- If you really want to piss off your bartender, try clapping your hands or snapping your fingers to get attention. If you want him to be nice to you and hand over your drink quickly, eye contact or a slight gesture will suffice.

- Don’t be afraid to try a new drink that the bartender recommends. It often leads to a drink on the house.

- Know what you want and be specific when you order. Otherwise, you will have to do with a less-than-perfect cocktail.

- Have your money ready and order all drinks at once. A good bartender can remember 6-8 drinks.

- Don’t shout out the bartender’s name if s/he doesn’t know who you are. It does not matter whether you know the bartender or not. If s/he doesn’t know you at all, that shout makes you so uncool.

With the arrival of summer, most bartenders update their cocktail menus, bringing in some new additions and revamping some old ones. Do you know what you will be ordering at summer parties? Will you just say, “A Mojito, please”? A quick reminder: all the classic cocktails are so out of fashion and you need to up your cocktail knowledge if you want to stick with the in crowd. Selecting the right summer cocktail from the range of drinks being shaken and stirred can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, that’s why we’re here! We’ve tried cool and refreshing cocktails in town and here are the results:

Patrooke at Rook: Rook’s owner Çetin Jr. (or Rüzgar Çetin) has every right to be proud of his bartender Metin. The guy has a great taste in cocktails as well as the ability to make new combinations with fun and creativity. Would you ever imagine getting drunk by drinking a cocktail that’s made with eggplants? Right, eggplants! We’re not talking about a meal; we’re talking about Patrooke—Metin’s latest creation. It’s a perfect summer cocktail but for now they’re keeping the ingredients a secret. But all we have to say is that if you like vodka and eggplants, you’ll love this drink!

Watermelon Martini at Lucca: Martini is a celebrated cocktail and was the inspiration for 007 to save the world. This version of Martini cocktail may not be suitable for 007 movies. It is, however, a perfect cocktail to chill out at the glitterati central Lucca. It can be described as a fabulously fruity version of the sophisticated classic cocktail. Ladies will love it!

Grapes Passion at Chilai: Undoubtedly, Bebek’s newcomer Chilai will be the hotspot of the city with a great Bosphorus view and a relaxed terrace. And the bar team is so ready for the summer with exotic cocktails and unique tastes. The staff’s recommendation is the Grapes Passion cocktail, made with peach flavored vodka, freshly squeezed grapes and pineapple juice, with a mix of cinnamon and salt around the rim of the glass. Those who love all things spicy should try the Mexican Mojito, which brings a whole new twist to the classic Mojito with tequila, sweet & sour sauce, soda, and Mexican chili.

Very Jameson at Küçük Otto: Fill the glass with ice, and then add Jameson Irish Whiskey @ Küçük Otto. Top off with ginger ale. Garnish with lime slice. Repeat, repeat, repeat. Here’s your new refreshing summer cocktail. Better, faster, and stronger. Irish whiskey & Ginger with ice is the new Mojito.

Satsuma Dream at 360 in Beyoğlu: Absolutely the best choice on a hot summer’s evening! The perfect combination of vodka, orange liqueur, lime syrup, and satsuma. 360 Beyoğlu's Satsuma Dream takes you somewhere far away, making you feel like you’re chilling out on a hammock under satsuma trees.

Anything around Beyoğlu?

Although the majority of the parties move to the waterfront clubs during the summer months, Beyoğlu still has Nuteras for the loyal habitués of Nupera. Now that mini-skirt season is on, the party is moving to the rooftop where the young and beautiful can mingle under the stars looking over the Golden Horn with the best music to match.

As the weather gets warmer, Istanbul’s nightlife moves from the heart of Beyoğlu to the banks of the Bosphorus. The waterfront, open-air clubs unlock their doors to satisfy the Istanbulites’ hunger for entertainment. Our shortlist of summer classics (for those looking to mingle with the crème de la crème) is made up of Reina, Anjelique, and Sortie.

A celebrity hot spot, Reina has one of the best views of the Bosphorus, located right under the Boğaziçi Bridge. A complex that includes some of the best restaurants under its roof in addition to the flashy bar and dance floor, Reina is expected to attract the glitterati of Istanbul to dance the night away until the wee hours of the morning yet again.

Right next to Reina is Sortie, boasting a similarly fascinating view of the Bosphorus in an equally huge complex. At Sortie, the party gets going when the sizzling crowd makes their entrance late at night, letting their hair down and shaking their booty until they can no longer stand.

Offering a fantastic view of the Boğaziçi Bridge and the Bosphorus in Ortaköy is one of upper crust’s favorite spot Anjelique. Famous for its impressive location as well as its high-society atmosphere, Anjelique is considered one of the best waterfront clubs in Istanbul. If your ambition is to spot Istanbul’s in-crowd on a night out, this is certainly the place to do it.

Istanbul—the city of beauty and grunge, grandeur and grime… and dirty techno beats.

Walking down İstiklal Street, the beating artery of Beyoğlu, various musical and non-musical strains will reach you over the heads of the heaving masses: a toothless old lady in a derelict apartment strumming a kemençe and singing lustily of snowdrops in springtime; the tinny beats of a ghetto blaster positioned by a teenage boy break-dancing in the middle of the crowd; live Latin music, funk, bossa, R&B, house, and jazz from the various clubs thronging the area... You will probably not hear any electro, but that is because the relevant clubs are both literally and metaphorically underground.

Once you seek out the electro scene, you will find a handful of venues. When I say ‘handful’, I mean about three, with a loyal following of discerning electro and techno lovers. Other venues, like the hugely popular Babylon and Ghetto, organize electro nights fairly frequently, but the specialist clubs are devoted to their art.

Otto is relatively well-known due to its central position in Asmalımescit and it is what might be called the layman’s electro venue, serving food and great cocktails pre-E hour, with a popular outdoor clutch of tables. Down some steps and past a formidable bouncer, you enter a dingy haze of red light, smoke (by the early hours), and excellent music. Surprisingly, Wednesdays are particularly good with a noticeable propensity towards tongue-in-cheek remixes of popular chart hits past and present, as well as obscure Eastern European folk music given a dirty edge and an aggressive base line. The place is small and gets packed, but the atmosphere is always upbeat and people laugh happily as drinks are spilt right, left, and center as revelry gets under way.

Just a few steps away from Otto is the upscale after-hours lounge/club 11:11, serving a mixed platter of music. The futuristic interior features colorful, custom-made lighting effects and design that is frequented by Pera-hopping Istanbulites. Local and international DJs reserve Thursday nights for deep house, classic house, and disco in the lounge area, while the weekenders party with house and tech-house in the main dance floor. The monthly 70s-80s parties add a bit of flavor to the mix. A possible celebrity-spotting venue, the unique blend of colors, lights, and house beats make for a unique night on the town, especially towards the wee hours of the night.

Machine is a rather different story. For a start, it is located on one of the most dangerous streets in Beyoğlu according to the bouncer (who looks like a character from The Matrix and allegedly has been stabbed three times on the job in the past eight months). His persistence is a tribute to the charm of the place, and I can confirm as a Western girl—and therefore a prime potential object of harassment—I have never felt in danger. The trouble spots are the side alleys of the street, and if you avoid these and come straight down into the welcoming cave of music, you will be fine. In fact, more than fine—the music is almost always brilliant, with the latest remixes from some of the biggest talents. The Twelves, Soulwax, and Alex Metric were played the last time I was there, and the DJs clearly know their stuff, coming from well-established circuits in Berlin and London to play epic sets until six in the morning.

The décor is part of the whole experience: the pitch black interior is illuminated by erratic, neon light-panels flashing on the ceiling and the DJs are imprisoned in a cage in the middle of the floor, with frenzied dancers clawing at the bars like electro-loving sharks intoxicated by the scent of remixed “Blood on the Dance Floor”. There is a considerable gay turn-out every night, of both sexes, and there is definitely a Berlin-esque vibe with a combination of genuine electro fanatics and generically ‘cool’ people with dubious haircuts and patterned waistcoats who are there to be seen.

This actually makes the Machine experience all the more entertaining, and you won’t encounter the same crowd anywhere else. Above all, if you’re craving really good electro in the hubbub of an Istanbul night out, Machine is your best bet, although keep in mind that the raucous scene might not be for everyone. Arrive around 3am for the choicer cuts, taking care of the side streets.

During winter, Nupera is a combination of three distinctively-conceptualized restaurants that transform into nightclubs after midnight. During summer, the entertainment moves up to the rooftop restaurant/club called Nuteras, which is famous for its exceptional views of the old city as well as its hip and young crowd.

Since 2001, the grand, black doorof this 200 year-old historical French building has been opening its doors for lively and energetic crowds that head to Nupera for a night of unforgettable music and fun.

As you enter, you will find Auf on your right. This dimly-lit, cozy little restaurant is always packed to its maximum capacity, its energetic DJ playing the songs of our youth from “I’ll Survive” to “Fame”. But it’s not just the music but also the DJ himself that jazzes up the place; overlooking from his hanging platform, this tall, blonde, and bouncy DJ dances the night away just as much as (if not more than) the tipsy crowd below.

The large room on the left side is the place to see and be seen: 67 is where the majority of the crowd meets and mingles, dances (if only subtly), and keeps checking out who’s there.

And LilBitz, another small but distinctive room, is where you’ll get a chance to dance to anything from pop to hip hop, from chart-topping international dance songs to everlasting Turkish dance pieces.

The magic of Nupera is that you can bar-hop without putting your jacket on. You will hear funky house, electro, 80s and 90s, and contemporary dance songs from all three places and you can sway your hips to whichever venue you prefer and keep hopping as the night goes on.

The drinks are a bit pricey and the dress code is strictly chic. So fill up your wallet, dress to impress, and be prepared to say hello to your new addiction.

Lux

It’s time to greet the brand new club Lux and give a warm handshake to the city’s real clubbers. Knowing Istanbul, it’s a challenge to find a club where people actually dance. Believe it or not, at Lux people have fun and dance all night to soul funk, soulful house, and nu disco (and occasional live performances). Enjoy the crowd, feel the music, and do what David Bowie says: “Let’s dance”.

Spoil

Once upon a time there was a woman who called herself the ‘architect of new Şişhane’ when she opened a club there called Public. This club became Istanbul’s melting point following its grand opening night. This woman had brought her entire luxury-loving crowd from the posh neighborhood of Bebek to the more bohemian Şişhane. And Şişhane was the new Bebek…for about 15 minutes. Now the lady has gone back to her roots and gave birth to her fourth child; she lives ‘Happily Ever After’ in Bebek. Meanwhile, Spoil has recently opened in Şişhane where Public used to be. But Spoil does not share the same fate as Public, thank God! If sharing a restaurant with loved-up couples doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable, Spoil is a great spot for dinner offering Mediteranean cuisine (from Italian and Spanish to Moroccan and Turkish). The most ambitious part of their menu is the meze section with 35 different dishes. The bar’s warm, wooden interior gives the place a casual atmosphere. Don’t expect all-night parties here. Just enjoy your drink and relax.

Biber

One of the best bars in Nişantaşı where you can relax, hang out, and have a drink with friends. From tapas to sushi, the menu offers a wide range of options (I personally suggest the yummy tapas). The cozy venue features downtempo and chill-out music.

Minyon

Weekday parties? Check. Junior celeb boss? Check. Serena van der Woodsen-like gals? Check. And—it’s located at the hottest Akaretler neighborhood. Welcome to Minyon—generation hot’s restaurant/bar offering Turkish and world cuisine by the Junior Çapa (Emre Çapa). Well, needless to say, Minyon is the place for the fresh and beautiful to be seen.

Delicatessen

A great spot to be seen by the hot, the witty, and the urban, Delicatessen is oh-so New York. It’s been open for quite some time, but it’s always ‘in’ and never goes out of fashion. The crowd is something between cool and arrogant; the food is great yet expensive. The menu offers dozens of choices from steak burger to fresh fish, and most dishes come with delicious sides. Service is friendly and waiters are attentive. Food and drinks are, just like the service, more than satisfying. At Delicatessen, you could spend the whole day just checking out the cool Nişantaşı crowd while sipping your freshly-brewed coffee.