Adonin Restaurant is perfectly located in the Sultanahmet area of Istanbul in that it is a mere 5 mins walk away from landmarks like Hagia Sophia yet it is a calm, serene air conditioned oasis from which to watch Istanbul's inhabitants and visitors stroll by. The food is expertly cooked and presented to impress.
We ate here 3 times during the week we were in Istanbul. The bread is exactly the way I like it - light and thin, sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds and served hot and fresh. At the first bite I was again that 5 year old boy waiting eagerly next to my Grandma as she expertly flipped unleavened bread over hot coals. Good food should remind you of, or make, good memories and Adonin Restaurant does this with pride. My respect goes out to the chefs and to the owners.
The charcoal fired grill sears the meats and vegetables to golden perfection, strewn with crispy peaks of deliciousness. The Testi Kebabi (pot kebab or stew pots) are presented and served in a style that resonates with something primal, ancient and comforting deep within you. The mixed kebab was the clear winner for me but the bread does get special commendations from my tastebuds. The bill was on par for a Sultanahmet restaurant.
The jewel in the crown of this place is the famous (possibly legendary) Johnny Walker (indulgent name) who is in the running for the best waiter in Sultanahmet, if not Istanbul. He is easy to get on with, with a very jovial attitude backed up with an elegant...
Read moreWe had a wonderful dining experience at this restaurant. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a perfect balance of elegance and comfort. The food was absolutely delicious—each dish was fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavor.
What made the evening even more special was the excellent service. The staff were attentive and professional throughout, and I would especially like to highlight John Walker, who went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. His friendliness, attention to detail, and genuine care turned a great meal into an unforgettable experience.
What made the evening even more special was the excellent service. The staff were attentive and professional throughout, and I would especially like to highlight John Walker, who went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. His friendliness, attention to detail, and genuine care turned a great meal into an unforgettable experience.
I can highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who values amazing food, outstanding service, and a memorable atmosphere. I will definitely be coming back!
I can highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who values amazing food, outstanding service, and a memorable atmosphere. I will definitely be...
Read moreThis restaurant has perhaps the best customer service i have ever experienced across the world from all my travels. Story time: I was recovering from an illness during the time i visited this cafe in August 2023 and my friend decided to sit where their air fan was blowing on high. The wind current ended up sparking an uncontrollable coughing fit where I wasn't able to stop. Our server rushed to give me water, they even insisted to move or stop the blowing fan. The water didn't work and excused myself to go to their bathroom lounge. Finally managed to control my coughing fit and came back out to where they quickly agreed to move our table as they were constantly ensuring i was okay. I felt really bad and embarrassed but their genuine concern for me made it feel very housewarming. The food was amazing and incredible. They even gave us some complimentary tea and coffee🥺 Their hookah ironically soothed my throat which helped to not cough. Our server i believe named Fayz? was incredible and such a caring individual. If theres one place to dine in Turkey, its Adonin Cafe...
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