Matbah Restaurant — Restaurant in Fatih

We stumbled upon this restaurant almost by chance while exploring the area. After several failed attempts to secure reservations elsewhere (many never even responded), I decided to try booking here online. To my delight, the reservation was confirmed almost immediately—a rare and refreshing experience in itself. This positive first step set the tone for what turned out to be an exceptional evening.

Let’s start with the food—it was really extraordinary. From the appetizers to desserts, every dish was crafted to perfection, bursting with flavor and showcasing true culinary artistry. My companion and I opted for different dishes, and each plate was a masterpiece. The flavors were rich, the ingredients fresh, and the presentations flawless. This was one of our first encounters with Turkish cuisine on this level, and it was an unforgettable introduction. It’s clear this restaurant has fully earned its Michelin star.

The service, however, is where this place truly shines. The staff were incredibly attentive, proactive, and genuinely invested in making our experience exceptional. They offered thoughtful recommendations, checked in frequently (but never intrusively), and made us feel completely cared for. Their warmth and professionalism were top-notch and played a big role in making the evening feel so special.

The ambiance is worth mentioning as well. The decor leaned a little toward the kitschy side, which might not be everyone’s taste, but it added a certain charm. It was a nice reminder that a Michelin-starred restaurant doesn’t have to be overly formal or luxurious to deliver an extraordinary culinary experience. Instead, the focus here was on making guests feel welcome and comfortable while serving phenomenal food.

As a lovely finishing touch, we were even given a small gift as we left—a thoughtful gesture that perfectly capped off an already memorable evening.

In summary, this restaurant exceeded all expectations. From the swift and easy reservation process to the incredible food and unparalleled service, it was a standout experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience. This is a Michelin-starred gem that truly lives up to its reputation....

A Royal Culinary Experience at Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine, profoundly speaking; there are dining experiences that satisfy hunger, and then there are those that transport you, immersing you in history, culture, and craftsmanship. Our recent lunch at Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine in Caferiye Sokak was undeniably the latter. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with a hospitality that was both gracious & heartfelt. The atmosphere carried a distinct charm, spacious, yet intimate; perfectly capturing the essence of Ottoman elegance. It wasn’t just about the decor; it was the way every element, from the subtle lighting to the traditional accents, worked together to create a refined and immersive experience. A special acknowledgment to Seveli, whose warmth and attentiveness elevated our visit. There’s something memorable about service that feels sincere, it adds a personal touch that lingers long after the meal. Now, the heart of the experience the cuisine; each dish felt like a page from history, crafted with precision and bursting with authentic flavors. We indulged in the Kırma Tavuk, Kirde Kebabı, and the delicate Almond Soup; every bite a perfect balance of tradition and innovation. It was evident that the ingredients were thoughtfully selected, and the recipes honored their Ottoman roots. What truly set Matbah apart was the seamless blend of exceptional service and culinary artistry. The staff’s dedication to ensuring an effortless, enjoyable experience spoke volumes about the restaurant’s commitment to excellence. Matbah is more than just a place to dine; it’s a gateway to Ottoman culinary heritage, presented with grace and passion. We left not only with full hearts and satisfied palates but also with a deep appreciation for the journey we were taken on. Thank you for a remarkable experience, I’m already looking forward...

Yesterday, we visited Matbah in the Sultanahmet area for lunch, prompted by a social media promotion and the fact that the restaurant was a Michelin guide recommended restaurant. I thought it must be worth a visit!

Starting with the positives: the service was excellent. The staff were very sweet and courteous, and the service was quick. The seating area was beautiful, though the views were not as glamorous as advertised.

Our table wasn't shaded on a hot day, but the staff happily switched on the fans when we asked.

Now, onto the food:

For appetizers, we ordered the stuffed vine leaves with sour cherries, which were good. The special hummus was unique in flavor, with a coarse chickpea paste infused with cinnamon—very interesting, though it didn't resemble traditional hummus in texture or taste.

For the salad, we had the shepherd's salad with walnuts, which reminded me of a salad we call Sharmula in Libya.

For the mains, we ordered the lamb shank with Begendi. This review is biased since I’m not a big fan of lamb in Turkey due to its strong flavor, but for meat lovers, it would likely be a joy—the meat was tender and fell apart easily.

We also had the Kirde Kebab, which wasn't bad but had a few chewy pieces of meat.

The veal kebab with fragrant herbs was the best of the dishes for my taste, though I would have preferred the grilled vegetable skewer to be cooked through better.

Would I come here again? Overall, it was an okay experience for us, but I can't say we will repeat it. However, I can't stress enough how sweet the waiters were, and they even gave us a lovely gift as we...