Süleymaniye Lokantası — Restaurant in Fatih

We bumped into this place by accident after visiting the Suleymaniye Mosque. The menu outside looked attractive, so we went inside. It looked empty, but then we were told that they had 4 floors above. We went to the rooftop terrace, which had an amazing view over Fatih, the Golden Horn, and beyond. The food is really affordable and super tasty! We had fewer choices on Sunday, but when we went back around lunchtime on Monday, the counter was well filled with many authentic Turkish dishes. The restaurant is family owned and run, with a few young employees who are well-mannered and hardworking. We were helped by the main staff, being very friendly, and they spoke in English to us. The restaurant is located in between the busy areas, so often overseen by tourists, but full of locals, especially students from the nearby İstanbul Üniversitesi. The place is located close to the Suleymaniye Mosque, so excellent to visit before or after food. Also very close to metro station Vezneciler. See you next time in Istanbul!

A lovely family-run café in a perfect location, just a 5 min walk from the Süleymaniye Mosque. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and you can really feel the warmth of the family behind the place. Their homemade pastries are absolutely delicious and flavorful but not overly sweet, which is perfect for us. They also offer a great variety of teas to go with them. The service is excellent, friendly, and attentive. They also have a rooftop terrace with a beautiful view, which makes the experience even more enjoyable. The prices are very reasonable, especially for such a nice location. My family and I loved it! It’s the perfect spot to relax after visiting the mosque or simply enjoy a peaceful afternoon. Too bad we discovered this gem on our last day here, but we will definitely come back on our next visit to Istanbul !

Having to stay two weeks in Istanbul, I searched for places where locals eat. I am tired of all those tourist restaurants serving the same dishes at expensive prices and not always very fresh or well-cooked. And then I found this place. Actually my wife did, i have to give credit to her. it is a place where they make local homemade dishes. From great soups to incredible stews, also for vegetarians, and also incredible deserts. It is close to the University so students eat here a lot. The prices are really, really cheap and the food is amazing. The staff is patient and attentive. And the deserts... Don't get me started on the deserts as they are incredible, especially the pudding. Anyways, for an amazing food at great prices and away from the hoards of tourists, this is the best place in the area.