Often times, restaurants inside hotels are cheesy and overpriced. As easy upcharge to take advantage of weary tourists too tired to venture out into the city to find dining options, food is often mediocre at best with watered down cocktails that are less than inspired.
This couldn’t be further from the truth in Turkey.
With an innovative east-meets-west approach, these fine dining venues inside Turkey’s highest-rated luxury properties are truly the best restaurants in the country. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the hospitality of your home away from home. You may actually want to stay for room service this time.
Aquarium Restaurant – Swissotel Izmir
A Greek and Mediterranean gem inside the Swissotel Izmir, the real wonder at Aquarium is the view. With porthole windows built directly into the swimming pool, it’s like you’re dining underwater with Ariel as your guest. For a nightcap, head way above land to Sky Bar with sweeping views of the bay. Don’t miss the Flames of Fig, which actually does come out in a flourish ablaze.
Arola – Raffles Istanbul
The only real Spanish restaurant in Istanbul, locals flock to Arola for high quality tapas from Michelin-starred chef Sergi Arola. Don’t miss the attached Long Bar, which connects directly into a massive wine cellar and pays homage to the original Long Bar in Raffles Singapore, where the Singapore Sling was created. Don’t worry, there are signature Turkish twists at this one.
Nicole – TomTom Istanbul
A true fine dining experience overlooking the Bosphorus, Nicole is classic French cuisine at Michelin-starred level. With a menu that changes every six weeks to accommodate the seasons, the chefs handpick ingredients from local markets and specialty shops. And a bonus? Kids under 12 aren’t permitted so it’s a true romantic night out for the parents.
Olive Anatolian – Hotel Sultania
The very first terrace restaurant in Old Town Istanbul, Olive Anatolian has been open since the roaring 50s. Aside from breathtaking views of St. Sophia, the Topkapi Palace, and the waterfront, they also offer cooking classes under the tutelage of their executive chef, a fun and hands on way to get acquainted with the range of spices and bold flavors found in Turkish cuisine.