TurguT Restaurant Gülhane — Restaurant in Fatih

We spent 12 days in Istanbul – and on 10 of those evenings we found ourselves returning to this restaurant. I rarely write reviews, but this place truly deserves every word. From the very first visit you feel the special atmosphere: Manager Mehmet and the entire team – especially Demir, İsa, and Ceren – work with a level of professionalism you usually only see in top fine dining restaurants. If you’ve seen the series The Bear, you’ll understand what I mean: everything runs like a precise clockwork, yet the warmth and genuine hospitality are always present.

The kitchen impresses with quality, generous portions, and flavors that stay in your memory. Yes, the prices may seem a little higher at first, but every cent is justified: through hospitality, attentive service, and thoughtful little gestures. After every meal you are treated to complimentary tea and dessert, plus there is live music and occasional performances that make the experience complete.

The atmosphere itself deserves mention as well: the furniture is high-quality and comfortable, the cutlery elegant and perfectly fitting the overall impression. It’s immediately clear that every detail here has been carefully considered to give guests a truly well-rounded experience.

One example: one evening my companion ordered Adana kebab. It wasn’t exactly to our taste – we prefer it a bit spicier. Instead of a standard reply, someone from the kitchen promptly came out, explained that most guests prefer it milder, and as compensation we were served desserts and several glasses of tea and coffee on the house. This level of personal attention is rare and shows that feedback is truly valued here. It’s clear that the team takes all feedback seriously, including lessons from previous one-star reviews, and continuously strives to improve the guest experience. On our next visit, they adjusted it exactly to our preference. They really spare no effort to ensure guests leave completely satisfied.

The team communicates flawlessly with each other and with the guests. You feel well taken care of, but never overwhelmed. Wishes are almost read from your eyes, while at the same time they respect your peace and space. This balance is what makes the difference. For us, this was the clear number one in Istanbul. An absolute recommendation for anyone who wants to experience not just food, but genuine hospitality – delivered by a team of truly remarkable and wonderful people.

We will definitely be...

Visited in July 2025. Turkey 🇹🇷 Istanbul.

Turgut stands out as one of the most unabashedly tourist-oriented restaurants we’ve visited in Istanbul. Its sprawling space, adorned with traditional decor that transports you a century back, is amplified by a lively show program that adds a theatrical flair to the experience.

FOOD: The menu brims with classic Turkish dishes, offering a deep dive into the country’s culinary heritage. We opted for lahmacun, a beloved Turkish staple, and a pistachio-crusted kebab. The lahmacun was tasty, though we prefer a version with a crisper flatbread, ideally paired with vibrant sides like pickled red cabbage, which was missing here. The kebab impressed with a flavorful, well-seared crust, but it was slightly dry, and we were disappointed to encounter bits of gristle and cartilage—an unwelcome sign of cost-cutting, perhaps. A complimentary serving of tea and a small pastry provided a pleasant finish to the meal.

SERVICE:

The service was commendable, especially given the bustling crowd. Dishes arrived promptly, even as we hurriedly placed our order upon seeing two busloads of tourists fill the tables. The staff handled the chaos with efficiency, keeping the experience smooth.

VERDICT:

Turgut is the quintessential tourist spot, delivering the quintessential Istanbul atmosphere—complete with an engaging show program that elevates the experience. However, the inflated prices and inconsistent food quality make it a one-time visit for us. If you’re seeking a theatrical taste of Turkish tradition and don’t mind paying a premium, Turgut fits the bill, but discerning diners may find better...

5/5 Stars - A Culinary Gem in the Heart of Istanbul!

I had the pleasure of dining at Turgut Restaurant in Gulhane, Istanbul, and it was truly an unforgettable experience! From the moment we stepped inside, the warm and welcoming staff made us feel right at home.

Ambience: 5/5 The restaurant's décor was stunning, with elegant Ottoman-inspired touches and beautifully appointed tables. The atmosphere was cozy and intimate, perfect for a romantic evening or special occasion.

Service: 5/5 The staff were absolutely exceptional! Attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, they went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was flawless. Special shoutout to Mehmet for his outstanding service!

Food: 5/5 The culinary delights were simply breathtaking! We indulged in an array of traditional Turkish dishes, each expertly prepared and presented. Standouts included:

Mouthwatering Adana Kebab Flavorful Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma) Creamy Baklava for dessert

Highlights:

Freshly baked bread served with complimentary olive oil and herbs Extensive wine list featuring Turkish varietals Live traditional Turkish music added to the enchanting ambiance

Recommendation: Don't miss Turgut during your Istanbul visit! Book a table in advance to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

Price Range: Moderate to upscale

Will I Return?: Absolutely! Can't wait to come back and indulge in more delicious...