Best Meat Restaurants in Istanbul: A Carnivore’s Guide to the City’s Finest Steakhouses and Kebabs

Istanbul is a meat lover’s paradise — a vibrant city where centuries-old grilling traditions meet modern steakhouse sophistication. From sizzling kebabs cooked over charcoal to premium dry-aged ribeyes, Istanbul’s meat restaurants cater to every palate. Below is a curated guide to the city’s top destinations for unforgettable meat dining experiences.

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1. Nusr-Et Steakhouse – Etiler

Cuisine: Upscale Turkish Steakhouse
Signature Dishes: Tomahawk steak, Dallas steak, lamb chops, signature baklava with ice cream, and a range of dry-aged cuts prepared with showmanship. Each steak is char-grilled to perfection, served sizzling hot, and often sliced tableside for guests.
Location: Etiler, Beşiktaş — the flagship branch that launched a global brand.
Price Range: $$$ (premium)
Atmosphere: A blend of energy, elegance, and theatre. Expect music, movement, and the unmistakable rhythm of knives striking against cutting boards. The lighting is warm and dramatic, with sleek interiors designed to amplify the luxurious dining experience.
Halal-Friendly: Yes (serves alcohol but all meats are halal-certified).
Ambience & Experience: Guests enter an environment that feels both glamorous and electric. The staff perform tableside rituals — carving steaks, seasoning them with a flourish of salt, and plating dishes in choreographed precision. The signature “Salt Bae” sprinkle has become a cultural icon, yet behind the theatrics lies impeccable consistency in meat quality and cooking technique.
Why Go: Founded by Nusret Gökçe, the global sensation known as “Salt Bae,” Nusr-Et has become synonymous with luxury dining and celebrity indulgence. It is not just a restaurant but an experience that merges performance art with fine cuisine. The menu’s highlights include rich, buttery cuts of beef paired with golden fries, truffle butter, and decadent desserts like pistachio baklava topped with clotted cream. Diners can expect first-class service, a lively crowd, and an atmosphere that captures the essence of Istanbul’s contemporary luxury scene.
Insider Tip: Reserve ahead for dinner hours and request a table near the grill to witness the live-action cooking. Try pairing your steak with their creamy mashed potatoes or signature salad — a simple yet perfect complement to the richness of the meat.

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2. Günaydın Kasap & Steakhouse – Multiple Locations

Cuisine: Butcher-style Turkish Grill
Signature Dishes: Dry-aged steaks, lamb chops, Turkish köfte, ribeye steak, and their signature house sausages. Many diners praise the mix of traditional Turkish marinades with modern steakhouse precision.
Locations: Etiler, Florya, Galataport — each offering a slightly different concept. The Galataport branch brings sea-view elegance, while Etiler remains the heart of the brand’s identity, blending local butcher heritage with urban sophistication.
Price Range: $$–$$$ (moderate to upscale, depending on location and cuts)
Atmosphere: Contemporary and comfortable with visible butchery and open grills. The interiors typically feature warm lighting, wood textures, and metallic accents that balance rustic authenticity with modern style. Many branches include a meat display fridge and open kitchen, allowing guests to select their cut of meat before it hits the grill.
Halal-Friendly: Yes. All meats are sourced from the brand’s own halal-certified farm, ensuring consistent quality. Alcoholic beverages are available in select locations, but halal dining options remain central to the experience.
Ambience & Experience: Dining at Günaydın is a full sensory experience. Guests can hear the crackle of sizzling meat, smell the aroma of charcoal, and watch expert chefs slice and sear with finesse. The butchers often interact with guests, recommending the best cut or explaining the dry-aging process. Families, business groups, and tourists alike find the environment welcoming yet refined.
Culinary Philosophy: As one of Turkey’s oldest butcher-to-table brands, Günaydın built its reputation on quality and trust. Their farm-to-table approach emphasizes local sourcing, freshness, and traditional Turkish butchery techniques honed over decades. The meats are aged in custom-designed rooms to enhance tenderness and flavor, resulting in a depth rarely found elsewhere.
Why Go: Günaydın’s roots as a traditional butcher make it a top choice for expertly prepared meats. Their in-house aging process and focus on Anatolian ingredients ensure every bite is tender, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. The menu caters to both steak enthusiasts and kebab lovers, offering a bridge between heritage and modern dining.
Insider Tip: Order the chef’s platter to sample multiple cuts and flavors in one sitting. Pair your steak with grilled vegetables and a side of their signature truffle fries, and finish with a classic sütlaç or chocolate soufflé for a perfect finale.

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3. Beyti Restaurant – Florya

Cuisine: Traditional Turkish Grill with Ottoman and Anatolian influences
Signature Dishes: Beyti kebab (their original creation), assorted mixed grill platters, ribeye steak, grilled lamb chops, and quince dessert with thick Turkish cream. The menu also features classic Turkish appetizers such as eggplant salad, spicy ezme, and lentil soup prepared using time-honored recipes.
Location: Florya, near the Marmara coastline — the restaurant’s multi-room building is surrounded by manicured gardens and terraces that offer a calm escape from the city’s bustle.
Price Range: $$$ (fine dining level, commensurate with its reputation)
Atmosphere: Elegant, nostalgic, and steeped in history. The interior combines Ottoman architectural motifs with modern comfort — ornate wooden carvings, tiled panels, and walls lined with photographs of dignitaries and celebrities who have dined here. Private dining rooms and large terraces accommodate both intimate dinners and grand gatherings.
Halal-Friendly: Yes, all meats are halal-certified. Alcohol is served, but traditional non-alcoholic beverages like şalgam (fermented turnip juice) and ayran are highly popular.
Ambience & Service: Service at Beyti is renowned for precision and warmth. Waiters dressed in formal attire deliver dishes with old-school grace, maintaining a rhythm of fine dining that feels both grand and personal. The aroma of grilling meats drifts through open archways, while the soft hum of conversation and clinking glasses adds to the timeless charm.
Culinary Heritage: Established in 1945 by Beyti Güler, the restaurant not only popularized but also invented the Beyti kebab — a now-classic dish featuring spiced ground lamb wrapped in lavash bread and served with yogurt and tomato sauce. Over decades, the establishment has become a pillar of Turkish gastronomy, often catering to international leaders and celebrities.
Why Go: A legendary institution that transcends generations, Beyti remains an emblem of Turkish hospitality and culinary craftsmanship. The restaurant blends tradition, artistry, and refinement into every meal, providing an experience that is both historically significant and sensorially satisfying.
Insider Tip: Reserve a table in advance, preferably on the upper terrace during sunset for an enchanting view of Florya. Don’t miss the namesake Beyti kebab — the flavor, texture, and presentation remain unmatched in Istanbul’s culinary scene.

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4. Sunset Grill & Bar – Ulus

Cuisine: International Grill & Sushi Bar
Signature Dishes: Kobe beef, filet mignon, California-style barbecue, grilled seafood platters, and sushi crafted by expert Japanese chefs. The menu reflects a blend of Mediterranean and Asian influences, featuring both traditional steakhouse fare and lighter coastal options. Seasonal ingredients inspire many dishes, ensuring freshness and innovation.
Location: Ulus — perched on a hillside that offers sweeping panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait, the bridges, and the glittering skyline of Istanbul. The setting provides one of the most romantic dining vistas in the city.
Price Range: $$$ (high-end fine dining)
Atmosphere: Refined yet relaxed, with modern decor, ambient lighting, and an open terrace perfect for sunset dining. Inside, a sleek bar and contemporary art installations elevate the ambiance. Soft music and a gentle breeze from the Bosphorus create a calm yet sophisticated mood.
Halal-Friendly: Yes, all meat is halal-certified, though alcoholic beverages are available.
Ambience & Service: Sunset is not just a restaurant — it’s an experience that combines culinary art, impeccable service, and breathtaking scenery. The staff provide attentive yet discreet service, guiding diners through wine pairings, specialty cocktails, and the best meat cuts. Each course arrives plated with meticulous presentation, turning dinner into a visual and gastronomic event.
Culinary Highlights: The Kobe beef is a must-try, known for its extraordinary tenderness and marbling. Their grilled lamb chops and seared tuna steak are equally beloved. Sushi lovers can explore the chef’s omakase menu, featuring hand-rolled selections that rival Japan’s finest sushi bars. Pair these delicacies with a glass of Turkish or international wine from their extensive cellar.
Why Go: Known for its breathtaking views and refined fusion cuisine, Sunset Grill & Bar stands among Istanbul’s most celebrated fine dining establishments. It attracts celebrities, diplomats, and food connoisseurs who come for both the view and the flavor. The combination of a glowing skyline, world-class ingredients, and expertly crafted dishes makes it ideal for anniversaries, romantic dinners, and high-profile gatherings.
Insider Tip: Arrive just before sunset to enjoy the view transitioning from daylight to the sparkling nightscape. Make a reservation for a terrace table, and consider sampling both the grill and sushi selections to appreciate the full spectrum of the restaurant’s offerings.

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5. Mürver Restaurant – Karaköy

Cuisine: Modern Anatolian Grill with a contemporary twist on traditional Turkish techniques.
Signature Dishes: Wood-fired lamb shoulder, dry-aged ribeye, grilled octopus, ember-roasted vegetables, and seasonal mezes. The menu evolves with the harvest, reflecting the chef’s focus on local, organic produce and regional flavors. Slow-cooked meats are smoked and roasted over open fire, giving every dish a unique, earthy depth.
Location: Karaköy — located atop the Novotel Bosphorus, offering stunning views of the historic peninsula and the glittering waters of the Bosphorus. The restaurant’s terrace and panoramic glass windows provide a captivating backdrop for both lunch and dinner.
Price Range: $$$ (premium but justified by quality and setting).
Atmosphere: Trendy, romantic, and infused with the warmth of the flames from the open wood-fire kitchen. The interior design features stone, metal, and natural wood elements that complement the restaurant’s rustic-modern concept. As night falls, soft lighting and the glow of the hearth create an inviting, sophisticated ambiance.
Halal-Friendly: Yes — the restaurant sources halal meats and refrains from pork. Alcoholic beverages are served but optional.
Ambience & Service: The staff are knowledgeable and attentive, explaining each dish’s cooking method and origin. Guests can watch chefs skillfully tend to the fire in the open kitchen, producing a visual spectacle that enhances the dining experience. The restaurant often attracts couples, food critics, and international visitors who appreciate a mix of modern design and ancient culinary tradition.
Culinary Philosophy: Mürver is built around the concept of live-fire cooking — the elemental connection between flame, smoke, and flavor. Chef Mevlüt Özkaya and his team use locally sourced ingredients, applying time-tested Anatolian methods like ember roasting and wood smoking to modern dishes. The result is a balance of rustic authenticity and fine-dining precision. Signature plates such as the lamb shoulder with freekeh pilaf or octopus with dry “cacık” highlight this philosophy.
Why Go: Mürver combines artistry, fire, and flavor in one of Istanbul’s most beautiful settings. The Michelin-recommended restaurant merges innovation with tradition, celebrating the primal allure of flame-cooked food. It’s an ideal venue for those seeking a memorable Anatolian dining experience elevated by creativity and ambiance.
Insider Tip: Visit around sunset to enjoy the shift in atmosphere from daylight to candlelit elegance. Pair your meal with a glass of Turkish wine from their curated selection, and finish with a dessert baked in the wood oven for a perfectly smoky-sweet finale.

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6. Zübeyir Ocakbaşı – Beyoğlu

Cuisine: Traditional Turkish Ocakbaşı (charcoal grill) with regional kebab varieties from across Anatolia.
Signature Dishes: Adana kebab, lamb shish, Beyti kebab, ciğer (grilled liver), lamb ribs, and spicy ezme meze. Each skewer is seasoned to perfection using recipes passed down through generations of grill masters. The meats are sourced from high-quality local farms and cooked directly over glowing embers.
Location: Just off İstiklal Street in Beyoğlu, steps away from Taksim Square — central, vibrant, and easy to find. The two-level restaurant includes counter seats around the ocak (grill), where guests can witness the entire cooking ritual.
Price Range: $$ (moderate; incredible value for the quality and experience).
Atmosphere: Authentic, lively, and filled with the irresistible aroma of charcoal-grilled meats. Expect a cozy, slightly smoky environment with brick walls, copper hoods, and warm lighting that create a nostalgic Istanbul feel. As the night progresses, the restaurant buzzes with conversation and laughter from both locals and curious travelers.
Halal-Friendly: Yes — all meats are halal, and the restaurant’s focus is on traditional Anatolian cuisine. Alcohol availability varies; most patrons visit primarily for the food experience.
Ambience & Experience: The heart of Zübeyir is the open mangal (charcoal pit), where skilled ustas (grill masters) expertly roast skewers while chatting with guests. Seating near the grill offers front-row access to the action — the hiss of fat meeting fire, the glow of coals, and the rhythm of the tongs. The service is friendly and informal, reflecting the warmth of Turkish hospitality. Despite its fame, the restaurant maintains a local character rather than a tourist-focused one.
Culinary Character: Zübeyir’s mastery lies in simplicity — letting the quality of the meat and the skill of the grill speak for themselves. Kebabs are juicy, tender, and perfectly charred, often served with soft lavash bread and roasted peppers. Each plate is a celebration of balance between spice, smoke, and succulence. Their lamb ribs and Adana kebab are particularly iconic.
Why Go: For the most authentic kebab experience in Istanbul, Zübeyir remains unmatched. Sitting by the open grill while watching masters work their craft connects diners to Turkey’s age-old grilling heritage. It’s a place where tradition, technique, and flavor converge — offering a dining experience that captures the true essence of Istanbul’s kebab culture.
Insider Tip: Go early in the evening to secure a grill-side seat, and don’t skip the freshly baked bread that arrives puffed and hot from the oven. Pair your meal with a cold ayran or şalgam for a truly local experience.

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7. Şehzade Cağ Kebap – Sirkeci

Cuisine: Eastern Turkish Lamb Kebab (Erzurum-style), known for its unique horizontal rotisserie cooking technique that produces melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
Signature Dishes: Cağ kebab — marinated slices of lamb layered on a horizontal skewer and slow-roasted over a wood fire. Served on flatbread with onions, sumac, and tangy yogurt, it’s simplicity perfected. Other offerings include lentil soup and light meze starters, but the focus remains on the kebab itself.
Location: Sirkeci, a bustling neighborhood near the Spice Bazaar and the old city. Tucked away on Hocapaşa Street, the restaurant sits among small eateries and attracts both locals and travelers drawn by its smoky aroma.
Price Range: $ (very affordable; one of Istanbul’s best-value meat experiences).
Atmosphere: Street-side, casual, and authentic. Seating spills out onto the sidewalk beneath a canopy, offering a view of the kebab turning slowly over open coals. Inside, walls are adorned with photographs and accolades, and the space feels intimate and lively.
Halal-Friendly: Yes — all meat is halal-certified, and no alcohol is served.
Ambience & Experience: The beauty of Şehzade lies in its minimalism. Guests watch the chef slice thin portions of lamb directly from the rotating spit, ensuring each serving is piping hot and perfectly charred. The scent of burning wood mixes with the sizzling fat, creating an intoxicating aroma that fills the air. Service is fast and efficient, catering to both sit-down diners and takeaway visitors. Locals often drop by for a quick lunch, while tourists linger, savoring the authenticity.
Culinary Tradition: Cağ kebab originates from Erzurum in Eastern Turkey, and Şehzade is credited with bringing this regional specialty to Istanbul with exceptional fidelity. The lamb is marinated in yogurt, onions, and spices for hours before roasting, creating a balance of smoky, savory, and tangy notes. The technique of slicing horizontally gives the meat its distinctive texture and juiciness.
Why Go: Simplicity at its best — Şehzade’s tender, juicy lamb skewers have earned cult status among food enthusiasts. It is consistently ranked among Istanbul’s must-try eateries for its authenticity, affordability, and dedication to craft. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned kebab lover, the flavor and tradition behind Şehzade Cağ Kebap make it an unforgettable stop on any culinary tour of the city.
Insider Tip: Go early or between meal rushes to avoid the long lunchtime queues. Order two or three skewers per person — the portions are modest but addictive. Pair your kebab with a glass of ayran and finish with a cup of strong Turkish tea for the full experience.

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8. Baltazar – Karaköy

Cuisine: Steakhouse & Gourmet Burger with a local twist that bridges traditional Turkish flavors and modern grill culture.
Signature Dishes: Baltazar burger, köfte burger, dry-aged steak, and artisanal sausages made in-house. Their burgers are crafted using freshly ground, high-quality beef and grilled to juicy perfection. The steaks, aged on-site, are seared over open flames for a smoky crust and tender interior. Sides include hand-cut fries, grilled vegetables, and zesty homemade sauces like garlic mayo and spicy tomato relish.
Location: Karaköy — situated on one of the district’s bustling side streets near the waterfront, surrounded by hip cafés, bars, and art galleries. Its location makes it a prime stop for both lunch and late-night dining after exploring the neighborhood.
Price Range: $$ (reasonable for quality ingredients and artisanal preparation).
Atmosphere: Cool, casual, and industrial-chic. The space features exposed brick walls, metal fixtures, and an open grill area where guests can watch chefs at work. Music hums softly in the background, giving the space a relaxed but energetic vibe. Dim lighting and communal tables make it feel urban and cozy at the same time.
Halal-Friendly: Yes — all beef and lamb are halal-certified, and although some alcoholic drinks are served, the menu is designed to appeal to all diners.
Ambience & Experience: Dining at Baltazar is both interactive and sensory. The scent of sizzling meat fills the air, and the open-kitchen layout lets guests witness every stage of cooking — from patty shaping to flame-grilling. The staff are friendly and passionate about their craft, often explaining the dry-aging process or suggesting ideal pairings for each dish. The crowd is a mix of locals, creatives, and young professionals, creating a lively, social atmosphere.
Culinary Approach: Baltazar prides itself on authenticity and precision. Every ingredient is locally sourced, and the chefs emphasize texture, seasoning, and balance over extravagance. Their burgers and steaks are minimalist yet bold — seasoned lightly to let the natural flavors shine.
Why Go: Watch your meat grilled before your eyes in a lively, stylish atmosphere that captures Istanbul’s new wave of gourmet street dining. Baltazar’s commitment to quality beef, homemade sauces, and fire-cooked excellence makes it a standout choice for anyone craving an elevated yet approachable meat experience.
Insider Tip: Visit during early evening hours to avoid long waits, and order the köfte burger with caramelized onions and cheese for a signature experience. Pair it with a cold lemonade or Turkish craft beer for the perfect meal.

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9. Virginia Angus – Nişantaşı & Eminönü

Cuisine: Halal Steakhouse & Burger with an emphasis on premium local Angus beef raised in Turkey.
Signature Dishes: Virginia Angus burger, Fantastic Four mini burgers, dry-aged ribeye steaks, and signature köfte. Burgers are grilled over an open flame, resulting in a smoky crust and juicy interior, while steaks are aged in-house for up to 30 days. The menu also includes healthier sides like grilled vegetables, fresh salads, and homemade sauces prepared daily.
Locations: Nişantaşı and Eminönü — both centrally located yet distinct in feel. The Nişantaşı branch sits in a trendy shopping district, attracting business professionals and burger enthusiasts, while the Eminönü location serves a steady stream of locals and tourists exploring the historic old city.
Price Range: $$ (moderate and excellent value for quality).
Atmosphere: Casual, cozy, and designed to evoke the charm of a classic butcher shop. Expect rustic wooden tables, exposed brick walls, and a visible dry-aging cabinet that showcases the cuts of beef. The aroma of grilling meat greets diners as soon as they enter. The environment is relaxed yet polished enough for both family lunches and business meetings.
Halal-Friendly: Fully halal, no alcohol served, with a focus on ethical sourcing and cleanliness in every aspect of preparation.
Ambience & Service: Service at Virginia Angus is efficient and genuine. The staff often engage with customers, recommending cuts or sharing preparation insights. Guests can watch chefs at the grill while enjoying the comforting buzz of a well-run kitchen. Everything — from presentation to temperature — is executed with precision and care.
Culinary Philosophy: Virginia Angus was created to deliver world-class steakhouse quality within a halal framework. Their approach emphasizes transparency, local farming, and sustainable production. All beef is 100% Angus, locally bred, and free of additives or hormones. Each bite reflects the purity of Turkish craftsmanship merged with global standards.
Why Go: Known for serving premium local Angus beef, Virginia Angus offers an American-quality burger and steak experience infused with Turkish hospitality — affordable, honest, and consistently excellent. It’s a go-to spot for diners who value premium taste without the formality of fine dining.
Insider Tip: Try the Fantastic Four mini burger set for a sample of their signature flavors, or order a ribeye cooked medium-rare for peak tenderness. Pair your meal with fresh lemonade or ayran, and finish with their homemade brownie or sutlaç for a perfect ending.

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10. Develi Kebap – Samatya

Cuisine: Classic Gaziantep-Style Kebab, deeply rooted in southeastern Anatolian culinary traditions that emphasize bold spices and artisanal preparation methods.
Signature Dishes: Pistachio kebab (the restaurant’s original invention), çiğ köfte, küşleme (tender lamb fillet), Antep-style lahmacun, and homemade baklava layered with locally sourced pistachios. Mezes such as hummus, smoked eggplant puree, and muhammara accompany each meal, showcasing the rich, nutty, and aromatic flavors of Gaziantep cuisine.
Location: Samatya (Fatih) — the historic heart of Istanbul’s old city. The flagship restaurant sits in a multi-level building with terraces overlooking the Marmara Sea, providing a serene, scenic backdrop for both lunch and dinner. Develi also operates several modern branches across Istanbul, but the Samatya location remains the most iconic.
Price Range: $$ (mid-range; generous portions and excellent value for the quality).
Atmosphere: Historic, family-friendly, and filled with nostalgia. Inside, vintage photographs and traditional Anatolian motifs pay homage to the restaurant’s century-long legacy. The rooftop terrace offers sea views and a gentle breeze in summer, while the indoor dining halls radiate warmth with wood accents, tiled walls, and soft lighting. The setting captures the essence of classic Turkish hospitality — relaxed, generous, and timeless.
Halal-Friendly: Yes — all meat is halal-certified, sourced from trusted regional farms, and prepared under strict quality standards. Alcohol is available but not emphasized, allowing diners to enjoy both traditional and modern experiences.
Ambience & Experience: Dining at Develi feels like stepping into a living piece of Turkish history. Waiters move swiftly between tables carrying sizzling skewers of kebab and trays of fresh meze. The rhythm of the kitchen blends with the hum of conversation and laughter, creating a warm, inviting environment perfect for families and gatherings. The service is polished yet deeply personal — reflective of the brand’s long-standing commitment to hospitality.
Culinary Heritage: Founded in 1912 by Arif Develi, the restaurant pioneered the pistachio kebab, combining premium lamb with Gaziantep’s famed nuts to create a dish that’s now a national treasure. Every recipe still honors Gaziantep’s culinary spirit — using pure olive oil, red pepper paste, pomegranate molasses, and bulgur sourced directly from southeastern Turkey.
Why Go: A true Turkish legend since 1912, Develi is known for innovation and tradition — including inventing the pistachio kebab. Generous portions, warm hospitality, and a nostalgic setting make it a timeless dining experience that transcends generations.
Insider Tip: Visit during sunset for a seat on the terrace with a view of the Marmara Sea. Order the pistachio kebab with a side of içli köfte (stuffed bulgur shells) and finish your meal with warm Antep baklava or fıstıklı katmer (pistachio pastry) for an authentic taste of Gaziantep right in Istanbul.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you crave a sizzling Adana kebab, a buttery steak cooked tableside, or a gourmet burger crafted with precision, Istanbul’s meat restaurants offer unmatched variety and flavor. From the glitz of Nusr-Et to the humble excellence of Şehzade Cağ Kebap, each venue reflects a facet of Turkey’s deep-rooted love affair with meat.

For the ultimate carnivorous tour, start with an ocakbaşı in Beyoğlu, move to an Anatolian grill in Karaköy, and finish your evening at a Bosphorus-view steakhouse in Ulus — savoring every cut, flame, and story along the way.