Set right by the base of the Galata Bridge in Karaköy, Akın Balık is a casual fish joint that is ideal to watch the sun set on the Golden Horn. Sitting on slightly narrow tables covered with paper instead of tablecloths, you’ll appreciate the simplicity of enjoying rakı, mezes, fish, and the good company of your friends.

Although there is an indoor area, the restaurant is possibly more enjoyable during warm spring and summer nights. Accompanying your dinner, there is old Turkish songs whispering from the speakers—we wish the volume was set higher as we couldn’t really hear the music most of the night. The waiters with cowboy hats are friendly and attentive but as the venue gets crowded you might need to test your patience—which is not that difficult with the ever-filling rakı glasses.

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