Established in 2000, Karaköy Lokantası has long been a favorite with in-the-know Istanbulites. Located on a small street behind the Karaköy shipping docks, just a stone’s throw away from the Bosphorus, Karaköy Lokantası is known for offering consistently delicious Turkish cuisine at reasonable prices. A family-run restaurant, this is one of the most popular lunchspots in the neighborhood with local businessmen, while in the evening the atmosphere is more like a meyhane (Turkish tavern) with a range of alcoholic drinks on offer.

The menu changes daily, but lunchtime favorites often include the hünkar beğendi, a dish of slow-cooked beef served on a bed of smoky eggplant puree, and ızgara süt kuzu pirzola (grilled baby lamp chops). For dinner,there is a wide variety of mezes on offer, as well as grilled fishand meat dishes, and avery tender grilled octopus. Karaköy Lokantası makes their own yogurt that is rich, creamy, and slightly tangy, and comes served in small clay pots. For desserts, a number of classic Turkish options are available, including baklava,and vişne soslu muhallebi(milk pudding topped with sour cherry sauce).

Due to its popularity we recommend to make reservations a few days in advance. Also be advised that the restaurant's kitchen is closed between 4-6pm between lunch and dinner services. 

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