Ulus 29 is well known both for its incredible view, which takes in the straits of the Bosphorus and its bridge, and for its avant-garde design. While ostensibly a "modern" restaurant (reflected in the presentation of the food, although the flavor is very traditionally Turkish), the design is classically dressy, with high-backed velvet chairs and outrageous cut-glass chandeliers.

These offer dim lighting at night to complement the twinkling lights littering the Bosphorus view, easily one of the best in Istanbul. As mentioned, the food is traditionally Turkish, although there is excellent International cuisine also available, including sushi, lobster and pizza. Another noteworthy mention is the award-winning and impressively varied wine list prepared according to import availability, including wines from Turkey, Italy, France, Australia, Argentina, Chile and much more.

Of the Turkish food, the lahmacun is a particular favorite. In stark contrast to the usual heavy topping of lamb, Ulus 29's version is far lighter, using lean beef, making the traditional lahmacun more like an elegant pizza. Another winner is the delicious crispy borek, filled with duck rather than the usual minced meat or cheese. The accompanying pomegranate sauce is reminiscent of Chinese sweet and sour sauce, perfectly complementing the duck.

The desserts are also well worth trying, with the sütlaç (milky rice pudding) flavoured with mastic getting a special mention. All in all, the restaurant is deservedly very popular, with many Istanbul residents taking their foreign guests here for the view and choice of excellent Turkish or International cuisine, depending on how adventurous they are feeling!

Recommended Dishes

Truffle Scented Jerusalem Artichoke Soup

Bone Marrow Crusted Beef Tenderloin and Foie Gras

Lahmacun (Turkish style pizza)

Köfte (Turkish meatball)

Sütlaç  (milky rice pudding)

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