La Terrasse Karaköy — Restaurant in Beyoğlu

A Dinner to Remember – Exceptional in Every Way

During our family trip to Istanbul, my grandmother and I dined at La Terrasse (Karaköy), and it turned out to be one of the most memorable evenings of our journey. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warm-hearted hospitality that went far beyond what you’d expect, even in a city as renowned for kindness as Istanbul.

A special thank you to Musa and the team, whose attentiveness and genuine care made us feel truly valued. Their professionalism, combined with a heartfelt personal touch, turned dinner into an experience we will always treasure.

The highlight of the evening was meeting Head Chef Burak Hayatoğlu, who personally presented his dish, served it onto our plates, and even surprised us with a thoughtful complimentary treat. That kind of personal touch is rare and unforgettable – it made us feel like cherished guests rather than customers. (Tip: make sure to read Chef Hayatoğlu’s personal note on La Terrasse’s website; it perfectly reflects the passion and exceptional quality he and his team bring to every detail of your experience.)

Of course, the view was stunning – a perfect backdrop for such a beautiful evening. Every detail of the service was thoughtfully planned, seamlessly organised, and delivered with grace.

In terms of value, the prices were very reasonable, especially when compared to the “tourist trap” restaurants in the area, which often charge the same (or more) for food and service that don’t even come close in quality. (Tip: Service is already included in the check, but an extra tip is more than deserved.)

Thanks to La Terrasse and its wonderful team, what could have been just another dinner became a lifelong memory – sentimental, heartfelt, and filled with joy. I wholeheartedly recommend this place to anyone...

A Bosphorus Breakfast Haven with a Personal Touch*

Sitting at this gem, nestled right before Galata port mall, feels like the perfect Istanbul experience. The view of the Bosphorus is nothing short of fabulous—sunrise over the water, boats drifting lazily by, and the city coming to life. But what truly sets this place apart isn’t just the stunning backdrop; it’s Chef Mustapha. His passion for food is infectious, and his interaction with guests adds a warmth that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The breakfast spread is impressive, with a mix of classic Turkish flavors and creative twists. Every bite feels like a celebration of local ingredients, and the presentation is almost too beautiful to disturb (almost). The staff are friendly and attentive, moving with a calm efficiency that makes you feel right at home.

What makes this place exceptional is the personal touch that Chef Mustapha brings to every meal. Without him, it could easily be just another restaurant with a great view, but his dedication elevates the entire experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this spot is a must-visit. Start your day with breakfast here, then stroll over to Galata port mall for a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration.

Highlights: Chef Mustapha’s passion and interaction Stunning Bosphorus views Friendly, attentive staff Perfect location near Galata port mall

Recommendation: Don’t miss the chance to chat with Chef Mustapha—he’s as delightful as the food. And if you can, grab a seat by the window to soak in the view while you...

We came to La Terrasse Karaköy for a dinner date and had a wonderful evening from start to finish. The atmosphere was elegant yet cozy, with breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the old town.

We started with two mezes, both incredibly flavorful (see photos!). Every dish was beautifully balanced and fresh. We also ordered the grilled king prawns as an appetizer; the dish usually comes with three prawns, but the staff kindly added a fourth at no extra cost, which was such a thoughtful gesture. The prawns were perfectly grilled, juicy, and full of flavor, definitely a must-try and top of our list!

For our mains, we had the strip sirloin with mashed potatoes and the lamb shank with orzo. The sirloin was slightly overcooked but still tasty, while the lamb shank was outstanding, tender, rich, and full of herbal flavor. Highly recommend the lamb!

We paired our meal with a Turkish Cabernet Sauvignon, which the staff offered at a reduced price after the Turkish Malbec we originally ordered was unavailable. To end the evening, we were treated to a complimentary tiramisu, which was creamy and puffy. However, at that point we were too full to finish it!

The service was exceptional. The team was friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. Overall, La Terrasse Karaköy delivers a perfect blend of amazing food, excellent service, and spectacular ambiance. Ideal for date nights or special occasions. Our total bill came to approximately 200 USD, but...