Ever since the first House Café opened in the upscale Nişantaşı area in 2002, this successful restaurant chain has been a favorite among stylish Istanbulites. All of the restaurants are designed by the award-winning Autoban Design Office that seamlessly blend modern, classic, and industrial elements to create polished and warm interiors.

The menu is ever changing, getting updated according to seasonal availability as well as popularity of the dishes. Head chef Coşkun Uysal blends both Turkish and international flavors to create delicious dishes with rich flavors. The House Café is an ideal place to go with a large group, as everything from Turkish classics to international favorites can be found. Grilled meats, pastas, pizzas, and salads are all on the menu, and some branches also feature special menus of the week.

While many menu items do change with the season, certain classics are almost always available. Menu highlights include the couscous with mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and caramelized onions, the lentil and goat’s cheese salad with grilled peppers, and the grilled haloumi in vine leaves. The pizzas with their thin crispy crusts and unusual flavor combinations are always winners. The weekend brunch menu is also very popular with eggs Benedict, pancakes, and smoked salmon dishes, as well as a buffet option.

The staff here is professionally trained, with attention given to details and presentation. The lounge music playing in the background and fresh flower arrangements add to the tasteful environment.  House Café now has ten branches throughout the city and, while they all feature the same menu and stylish décor, most people count the Ortaköy branch as their favorite. With a large sunny terrace overlooking the Bosphorus and fantastic view of the bridge and local mosque, this location is always packed.

Recommended Cocktails

Apple Martini

Related Content

Article

Chic Brunch Spots in Istanbul; by Talya Arditi