My Family's top picks for delectable Sultanahmet delights

Istanbul has been a beloved destination for my family for many years. While the city’s modern districts have their appeal, we tend to gravitate toward the enchanting charm of the Fatih district, especially Sultanahmet. The rich tapestry of history, the vibrant street life, and the stunning architecture create an irresistible vibe. But while the history brings us to the neighborhood, it's the food that keeps us here. From sizzling kebabs to mouthwatering baklava, here are our top picks for the most delicious and memorable food experiences in Sultanahmet. And one or two that are nearby.
Galeyan Restaurant (Alemdar Mah. Ticarethane Sok. No:13/B, Fatih) – This is the most expensive restaurant on my list. It serves Turkish food, and the variety in its selection is nice.
Giritli Restaurant (Yenigüvey Sokak No:9, Cankurtaran/Fatih) – It’s listed as a Cretan/Aegean or Mediterranean seafood restaurant, but I recall it being Turkish. Perhaps because the part of Turkey where I lived blends Greek and Turkish cultures, I can no longer distinguish between the two. Tripadvisor says a reservation is required.
Old House Terrace Cafe Restaurant (Cankurtaran, Utangaç Sok. No:23, Fatih) – This is a Turkish/Seafood restaurant near the Four Seasons Hotel. Website
Pandeli (Rüstempaşa Mahallesi, Balık Pazarı Kapısı Sokağı No:1/2, Mısır Çarşısı İçi 1 D:2, Eminönü/Fatih) – This is a Turkish restaurant at the Spice Bazaar.
Sultan Ahmet Köftecisi (Buyukdere Cad. Astoria Alisveris Merkezi No:127 K:3 Sisli Esentepe) – This is a pretty lowbrow köfte (skewered hamburger) place. It’s as close to fast food as I can suggest. Website
Sultan Palace Café Restaurant (Alemdar Mah, Biçki Yurdu Sok.No:1) – This is down an alley right off the main road. It’s typical barbecue and Turkish food. We went with a bunch of very picky eaters one year, and they loved it.
Tershane (Arap Cami Mahallesi, Tersane Caddesi No:24, Karaköy/Beyoğlu, Hotel Momento 8th Floor) – This is a Turkish restaurant in the Hotel Momento on the Galata side, a few blocks before you get to the Italian Galata Tower. It has a great view of the old city.
My kids and I also snack at what seems to be every tea garden and street vendor we pass, especially enjoying grilled corn, chilled almonds, and grilled chestnuts. We love dining at the many hole-in-the-wall places we stumble upon, even if I don't always remember to write them down. While there are some mediocre options, most places we try are quite good. For some of our favorite tea shops take a look at these two older articles: Five Favorite Places to Drink Tea in Istanbul and Five Favorite Places to Drink Tea in Istanbul - A Supplement.
As a final note, if you're staying in the Fatih district, I highly recommend having breakfast at your hotel. Nearly all the hotels in Sirkeci/Sultanahmet boast rooftop terrace restaurants. I have never had a bad breakfast at any of these hotel restaurants.
(Image by Ben Kerckx from Pixabay)
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