Roka — Restaurant in Beyoğlu

I never thought I’d leave such a review for a place like Roka, but unfortunately, I have to give only one star.

The first and most unacceptable issue: I found a hair in my food. While the staff did replace the dish, the time between plates was suspiciously short – which made me wonder whether they simply removed the hair and sent the same dish back out. For a restaurant that markets itself as upscale and refined, this is simply not acceptable.

What disappointed me even more: I wasn’t offered any form of compensation. No waived item, no complimentary dessert, not even a sincere gesture of goodwill. I couldn’t help but feel that if I had raised my voice or made a scene, I would’ve been treated differently. But I stayed polite, respectful, and kind throughout – and maybe that was the reason it was all brushed aside so easily.

It’s frustrating to feel like in today’s dining culture, only those who complain loudly are acknowledged. I didn’t want to make anyone uncomfortable or embarrass the staff – I know the server wasn’t personally at fault. But must I really be unpleasant in order to be taken seriously?

Secondly, I noticed a clear difference in how guests were treated. The table next to me – obvious tourists – received warm towels, beautifully sliced lemons with their water, and aesthetic, attentive service right at the table. I didn’t receive any of these touches. It left me wondering: was it because I spoke Turkish and didn’t appear to be a tourist?

Some of the staff were genuinely kind, and I truly appreciate that. But I can’t overlook the overall experience – from the hygiene issue to the inconsistent service and the feeling of being dismissed simply because I stayed calm and respectful.

This left me with a bitter aftertaste, and I sadly won’t be returning. I sincerely hope the management reflects on how to ensure all guests – regardless of language, background, or how loudly they complain – are treated with equal care...

We dined at Roka yesterday and the experience fell short of expectations — especially considering the price point.

Service: As soon as we sat down, the staff began pushing for water — which is fine — but strangely, it only arrived after the wine, which we had ordered alongside our food. Our server also had limited knowledge about the wine list and was unable to answer basic questions. The wine they recommended as a good pairing with the tasting menu tasted like something easily found at a supermarket like Migros.

There were also small but telling service lapses. At one point, a staff member took my used plate and picked up my chopsticks along with it, placing them in their tray. Then, without offering a clean pair, they touched the same chopsticks and placed them back onto my new plate — which was not only unhygienic but also quite careless for a fine dining setting.

Another awkward moment: I was still slowly eating the pickled cucumbers that came with the dumplings, and the staff member stood by the table, watching and waiting to remove the plate — creating unnecessary pressure to rush the experience.

Ambiance: The view of the turquoise sea is spectacular, and the interior design — particularly the restrooms — is well done. I liked the design details such as the doors and sinks. There was loud yelling from upstairs (possibly from a bar) when we arrived, which was unsettling at first, but things eventually quieted down.

Food and Ingredients:

We ordered the tasting menu, and the sequence of dishes was odd — salad arrived at the end, while dumplings came first. The sushi was slightly mushy, giving the impression it had been prepared too far in advance. While dishes were cooked very well in terms of technique, the overall quality of ingredients felt average. The only standout item was the soy sauce served with the salmon — clearly of high quality — but unfortunately, that alone doesn’t...

Roka at Galataport Istanbul offers an extraordinary dining experience that seamlessly blends modern Japanese cuisine with a chic and sophisticated ambiance. Located in the heart of one of Istanbul’s most vibrant districts, Roka provides a culinary journey that is both refined and memorable.

The menu at Roka is a celebration of Japanese flavors with a contemporary twist. From the perfectly grilled skewers to the fresh and delicate sushi, each dish is meticulously prepared with the finest ingredients. The Robata grilled items stand out, offering a rich and smoky flavor that is simply irresistible. The lamb cutlets with Korean spices are a must-try, combining tenderness with a burst of flavors.

The setting at Roka is both stylish and comfortable, with an open kitchen concept that adds to the dining experience. The sleek design and ambient lighting create an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a special evening out. The outdoor seating offers stunning views of the Bosphorus, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal while taking in the scenic beauty of Istanbul.

Service at Roka is impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who are always ready to enhance your dining experience with their recommendations. Their warm hospitality and professionalism add a personal touch that makes every visit feel special.

In summary, Roka at Galataport offers a dining experience that is both luxurious and approachable. With its exceptional food, elegant ambiance, and top-notch service, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in modern Japanese cuisine in Istanbul.

Rating: 4.9/5 - Roka at Galataport excels in delivering a memorable and sophisticated dining experience, making it a standout choice in Istanbul’s...