3. Smelt & Co, Fatih
Open throughout the summer, the neat rooftop terrace of Smelt & Co overlooks Balat—one of Istanbul’s oldest and most cosmopolitan districts—as well as part of the Golden Horn. And, if that’s not enough, this wonderful view is accompanied by some of the best seafood and vegetarian dishes in the city, a constantly changing seasonal menu that guarantees there’s always something new for guests to try, and a stunning list of kombucha-based virgin cocktails suitable for any occasion. Every menu item is creative, flavorful, and fresh.
4. Biz Istanbul, Beyoğlu
Located inside the vibrant Atatürk Cultural Center, colloquially known as the AKM, Biz Istanbul is perfect for sampling some of Istanbul’s authentic street food favorites like fried mussels, crispy manti, mini borek, and spicy sucuk. Following the demolition of the old AKM building in 2018 and an extensive reconstruction project that ended in 2021, the new complex—designed by Murat Tabanlıoğlu, son of the original AKM building’s designer, Hayati Tabanlıoğlu—features a theater, cinema, concert halls, and an art gallery, along with several pleasant cafés and restaurants. With an open kitchen designed to give visitors great views of what’s happening behind the scenes—complete with wood-fired ovens and coal grills—and a carefully curated selection of wines and raki, Biz Istanbul’s rooftop bar is the perfect place to experience a little Turkish culture, both on and off the plate.
5. Monkey Istanbul, Beyoğlu
This cocktail bar is situated above the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts, a non-profit organization focused on placing the city at the center of the international arts scene. Before visiting, check out the foundations program at Salon Iksv, its in-house venue hosting a range of concerts and parties. The event usually starts late at night, so visitors can head up to the rooftop bar at Monkey Istanbul for sunset drinks overlooking the Golden Horn and Historical Peninsula beforehand. Follow in the footsteps of locals around you, sampling a mocktail or the signature “Hot Passion” cocktail while listening to guest DJs playing disco and house music.
