Best Vegan Restaurants in Istanbul

Istanbul has rapidly evolved into one of the most exciting vegan-friendly cities in Europe and the Middle East. From traditional Turkish comfort food reinvented in plant-based form to elegant Michelin-level cuisine, the city offers an impressive range of vegan dining experiences. Below is a detailed and uniquely crafted guide to the best vegan restaurants in Istanbul, highlighting their specialties, ambiance, signature dishes, and what makes each of them stand out.

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Kumin Vegan Lezzetler (Kadıköy)

Nestled on a quiet street in Rasimpaşa, Kumin Vegan Lezzetler feels more like a warm invitation into someone’s home than a restaurant. This intimate eatery specializes in a fusion of Turkish and global vegan cuisine, drawing inspiration from regional Turkish cooking as well as international plant‑based traditions. The menu often showcases seasonal vegetables, slowly cooked stews, delicately spiced meze plates, and comforting homemade dishes that change throughout the year. Guests frequently praise not only the peaceful garden at the back—an unexpectedly serene escape in the heart of Kadıköy—but also the warm, neighborly hospitality that makes the space feel deeply personal. Many describe the chef’s meticulous attention to detail, from the careful seasoning of each plate to the thoughtful, nurturing presentation that reflects a genuine love for cooking.

Why it stands out: A hidden-gem ambiance, soulful recipes, and a serene garden that enhances the dining experience.

What to try: Stuffed eggplant with tahini, pumpkin soup, and house-made vegan desserts.

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Vegan Dükkan Lokanta (Cihangir)

Located just steps from the iconic Vegan Dükkan vegan shop, this restaurant has earned a reputation for transforming beloved Turkish dishes into plant‑based masterpieces. With only a handful of tables, it offers an intimate and homely space where guests enjoy daily specials prepared with refined techniques. The ambiance feels warm, familiar, and community‑driven—much like being welcomed into a neighborhood dining room where the menu changes with the chef’s inspiration and seasonal produce. Every dish reflects a thoughtful approach to flavor, texture, and presentation, making this small establishment one of the most respected pillars of Istanbul’s vegan scene.

Over time, Vegan Dükkan Lokanta has become a destination for both locals and travelers who want to experience traditional Turkish cuisine through a vegan lens without losing authenticity. The restaurant frequently crafts special dishes inspired by regional Turkish flavors, bringing forward recipes from Anatolia, the Aegean, and the southeast in creative, fully plant‑based expressions. Guests appreciate the dedication to using wholesome ingredients and the consistent balance between familiar comfort and culinary innovation. Despite its modest size, the restaurant’s influence extends widely—its dishes are often described as some of the most carefully prepared vegan interpretations available in the city.

Why it stands out: Creative reinterpretations of traditional dishes such as mantı and Adana‑style kebabs, with an emphasis on authenticity, craftsmanship, and a home‑cooked warmth that resonates with diners.

What to try: Vegan mantı with yogurt and tomato‑chickpea sauce, börek pastries, fragrant stews, daily inspired regional dishes, and any special seasonal offerings.

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Veganarsist (Kadıköy)

A family-run favorite that has built a loyal following, Veganarsist offers an extensive menu entirely dedicated to vegan Turkish cuisine. It’s known for its hearty portions, sincere hospitality, and commitment to vegan ethics.

Over the years, Veganarsist has become a vibrant cultural hub within Kadıköy’s plant-based food scene. Beyond simply offering vegan versions of beloved Turkish dishes, the restaurant embraces a philosophy of inclusivity and creativity. The team experiments with flavors from different regions of Turkey, often introducing diners to lesser-known traditional recipes that have been thoughtfully adapted into vegan form. The welcoming atmosphere makes it an inviting space for both seasoned vegans and newcomers who are curious about plant-based dining. With its warm lighting, comforting aromas, and friendly staff, the restaurant feels like a familiar and cozy kitchen—one where every dish is prepared with intention and pride.

The extensive menu spans everything from street-food classics to homestyle stews, oven-baked specialties, and celebratory dishes normally served during holidays or family gatherings. Veganarsist places emphasis on handcrafted components, including seitan, vegan cheese, yogurt alternatives, and richly seasoned fillings. This attention to detail ensures that every dish captures the heart of its original inspiration while offering a fresh, plant-forward interpretation.

Why it stands out: Almost any local Turkish dish you crave has been veganized here—without sacrificing flavor. The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and culinary innovation makes it one of the most comprehensive and beloved vegan dining destinations in the city.

What to try: Vegan lahmacun, mantı, stuffed cabbage rolls, homemade vegan baklava, richly spiced stews, seasonal specials, and any weekly chef’s recommendations.

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Bi Nevi Deli (Etiler)

Bi Nevi Deli has positioned itself as one of Istanbul’s pioneers in contemporary vegan cuisine. Its whole-food, health-focused menu appeals to both serious foodies and wellness-oriented diners. The dishes often highlight vegetables, legumes, and grains with creative, international flair.

In addition to its focus on nutrition, Bi Nevi Deli embraces bold experimentation with flavors, textures, and global culinary traditions. The kitchen frequently incorporates ingredients such as fermented foods, nut-based cheeses, and house-made sauces to enhance both depth and nutritional value. The restaurant’s design echoes its food philosophy—bright, modern, and refreshing—making it an ideal backdrop for mindful eating, casual meetings, or leisurely weekend brunch.

Regular visitors admire the restaurant’s ability to evolve with the seasons. Its rotating menu offers vibrant bowls, inventive salads, hearty entrées, and beautifully plated desserts that appeal to both health-focused diners and those simply seeking an elevated plant-based experience. Every plate feels intentionally composed, reflecting the team’s passion for culinary artistry and whole-food nutrition.

Why it stands out: Innovative, wholesome dishes presented beautifully in a stylish, friendly café setting. Bi Nevi Deli excels at merging gourmet creativity with nutrient-dense cooking, offering meals that satisfy both the palate and the body.

What to try: Artichoke dip, beet & black bean koftë, sweet potato hummus, pomegranate cheesecake, seasonal signature bowls, and any specialty dessert crafted with fresh, naturally sweet ingredients.

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Telezzüz (Kuzguncuk – Fine Dining)

Telezzüz has redefined fine dining in Istanbul as the country’s first fully vegan gourmet restaurant, even earning a Michelin Green Star for sustainability. The restaurant has quickly become a landmark in Turkey’s plant-based culinary movement, not only for its accolades but also for its philosophy of elevating vegan cuisine into an art form. Every detail—from the curation of ingredients to the pacing of each course—is orchestrated with exceptional care. The tasting menus unfold like a story, with each dish designed to stimulate the senses through layered textures, aromatic herbs, complex sauces, and visually striking plating. Seasonal produce sourced from local farms plays a central role, allowing the chef to build menus that evolve with the rhythm of the land.

The dining experience at Telezzüz is intentionally immersive. Guests are guided through a sequence of courses that highlight the chef’s mastery in transforming humble vegetables into haute-cuisine masterpieces. The ambiance is serene and refined, blending soft lighting, natural materials, and understated décor influenced by the restaurant’s sustainability ethos. Service is attentive without being intrusive, with staff explaining the inspiration and preparation behind each course—adding depth and narrative to the overall experience.

Why it stands out: The most elevated vegan dining experience in Turkey, offering poetic tasting menus, world-class culinary technique, and a commitment to sustainability that permeates every aspect of the restaurant.

What to try: Seasonal tasting menu highlighting mushroom ceviche, kohlrabi tartare, artichoke variations, imaginative multi-layered desserts, and other ever-changing creations shaped by the chef’s inspiration and local harvests.

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Yuzu Moda (Kadıköy)

Bringing plant-based Japanese and Asian flavors to Istanbul, Yuzu Moda has grown from a neighborhood favorite into one of the city’s most innovative vegan destinations. Its menu blends traditional Japanese techniques with modern plant-based creativity, offering dishes that are both comforting and beautifully presented. Guests praise the freshness of the ingredients, the attention to detail in preparation, and the consistency of flavors that rival traditional Japanese eateries. The minimalist design of the space—with clean lines, natural textures, and thoughtful lighting—creates a calming environment, while the cozy terrace adds a relaxed charm, especially during warm spring and summer evenings.

Beyond sushi and ramen, the restaurant frequently introduces seasonal specials inspired by broader Asian cuisines, giving diners the opportunity to explore new textures and taste profiles. Yuzu Moda’s commitment to quality is evident in its house-made sauces, carefully marinated tofu, and the delicate balance of umami found throughout the menu. Whether visiting for a light lunch or a leisurely dinner, guests experience a culinary journey that feels both familiar and delightfully unexpected.

Why it stands out: Exceptional vegan sushi, refined Japanese-inspired entrées, fresh ingredients, and a serene dining atmosphere not found elsewhere in the city.

What to try: Rainbow sushi rolls, tempura plates, miso-glazed tofu, ramen bowls, and any seasonal specials featuring marinated tofu, fresh vegetables, or house-made dipping sauces.

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Vegan Masa (Beşiktaş)

Vegan Masa specializes in veganized versions of traditional Turkish pide and lahmacun, offering a nostalgic street-food experience with a modern twist. Their menu recreates familiar flavors from classic Turkish bakeries but replaces conventional ingredients with rich plant-based alternatives. The dough is soft, airy, and freshly baked for each order, while the vegan cheese and seitan-based toppings add layers of flavor that satisfy even the most discerning palates. The small, unpretentious environment allows the food to take center stage, making it an ideal stop for a comforting and affordable meal.

The charm of Vegan Masa lies not only in its taste but also in its commitment to preserving the authenticity of Turkish culinary traditions. They regularly experiment with new toppings, seasonal vegetables, and innovative vegan interpretations of classic pide varieties. The staff is friendly and passionate, often offering recommendations to newcomers. Many guests appreciate the restaurant’s relaxed ambiance, where the smell of freshly baked dough fills the air, and the steady rhythm of orders being rolled, topped, and baked creates an inviting and homey atmosphere.

Why it stands out: The best spot in Istanbul for vegan pide and lahmacun—authentic, affordable, satisfying, and consistently prepared with care.

What to try: Mushroom & cheese pide, vegan lahmacun, soy-based cacık, and any limited-edition pide varieties featuring seasonal vegetables or new plant-based toppings.

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Vegan Istanbul (Cihangir)

A staple in the Cihangir neighborhood, Vegan Istanbul is known for its abundant buffet of veganized Turkish home‑cooked favorites. The restaurant has become a comforting refuge for both locals and travelers searching for hearty, nourishing meals that feel as if they were prepared in a traditional Turkish household. Its rotating assortment of meze, slow‑cooked stews, oven‑baked dishes, and crisp salads allows diners to explore a wide range of flavors in a single visit. The bright, casual setting enhances the experience, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to linger, sample, and savor. Many visitors appreciate that every dish feels authentic—not simply vegan replacements, but meaningful reinterpretations of cherished classics.

Vegan Istanbul also excels in offering a consistent balance of healthy options and indulgent comfort foods. Whether you are in the mood for something light like olive‑oil vegetables or craving a richly seasoned stew, the buffet setup ensures variety and freshness throughout the day. Portions are generous, prices are budget‑friendly, and the staff is known for warmly guiding newcomers through the dishes, making it an accessible entry point into Turkish vegan cuisine.

Why it stands out: Incredible value, a wide variety of traditional dishes, and an unmistakable home‑style warmth that makes it one of Cihangir’s most beloved vegan staples.

What to try: Stuffed vine leaves, lentil soup, zeytinyağlı vegetable dishes, baked casseroles, and the generously portioned homemade cakes.

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Vegan Community Kitchen (Balat)

More than just a restaurant, this grassroots establishment emerged from the Gezi Park movement, where volunteers served free vegan meals as a symbol of community care and solidarity. Today, Vegan Community Kitchen continues to honor those activist roots through its welcoming, intimate environment and deeply heartfelt approach to plant‑based cooking. Tucked beneath a historic archway in Balat, the space immediately conveys warmth, simplicity, and authenticity.

The menu changes daily, reflecting what the team prepares fresh in small batches. Dishes often include hearty stews, traditional comfort plates, and handmade staples like seitan, plant‑based yogurt, and pastries. Guests frequently comment on the sincerity behind every bite—the food is not only flavorful but also clearly prepared with intention and love. Many visitors find themselves returning not only for the food but for the sense of community the space cultivates. Conversations between diners, shared tables, and the presence of regulars create an atmosphere reminiscent of a neighborhood kitchen rather than a commercial restaurant.

Why it stands out: A meaningful mission rooted in activism, combined with heart‑warming Turkish comfort dishes prepared using homemade, thoughtfully crafted ingredients.

What to try: Vegan seitan döner wrap, mantı, daily stews, and any special desserts offered that day.

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Vegan Food Cartel / The Vegan Regime (Beşiktaş)

A hotspot for vegan fast‑food lovers, this restaurant has earned a devoted following for its ability to transform classic comfort dishes into indulgent, fully plant‑based creations. Here, diners can enjoy towering burgers, creamy pastas, generously sauced döner plates, and boldly seasoned bowls that successfully replicate the richness and satisfaction of traditional fast food. Every dish is designed to be hearty and filling, making it a favorite among those who crave strong flavors, substantial portions, and a memorable, flavor‑packed experience. The atmosphere is energetic and urban, with a steady flow of regulars who appreciate both the creativity and consistency of the menu.

Beyond its well‑known staples, the restaurant also experiments with new items, offering rotating specials that push the boundaries of vegan comfort cuisine. Its seitan‑based meats, smoky sauces, and melty vegan cheeses are crafted to deliver a uniquely bold profile, appealing not only to vegans but also to curious omnivores looking for satisfying alternatives. With its late‑night feel and youthful vibe, The Vegan Regime captures the essence of modern plant‑based fast dining in Istanbul.

Why it stands out: The go‑to place for vegan junk‑food cravings, offering bold seasonings, hearty textures, and generous portions that rival any classic fast‑food experience.

What to try: Vegan İskender, double cheeseburger with vegan bacon, shish kebab bowls, and rotating seitan‑based specials that showcase the kitchen’s innovative approach.

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Turp (Moda)

Turp captures the soul of Turkish street food through a vegan lens, offering an experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Despite its small size, this compact eatery has built a strong reputation for delivering some of the most flavorful and authentically seasoned plant‑based versions of Turkey’s most iconic street dishes. The aromas of sizzling tempeh, freshly grilled lavash, and spice‑laden fillings drift out onto the street, often drawing curious passersby who quickly become regulars.

Turp’s menu focuses on fast, satisfying handhelds that showcase the bold, savory, and spicy flavor profiles Turkish street food is famous for. Every wrap and dürüm is assembled to order, ensuring freshness and the perfect balance of textures. The vibe is casual and bustling—typical of a Moda neighborhood favorite—and many diners enjoy taking their food to the nearby seaside to eat with a view.

Why it stands out: Turp delivers truly authentic street‑food character while remaining fully vegan. Its commitment to preserving the original taste profiles of tantuni, döner, and kokoreç makes it a standout for both locals and travelers seeking bold, satisfying flavors without compromise.

What to try: The vegan tantuni made from finely seasoned tempeh is the star of the menu, offering a spicy, juicy, and aromatic experience. The döner dürüm provides a hearty, protein‑packed option, while the vegan kokoreç showcases the shop’s creativity with its perfectly spiced mushroom‑based filling.

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Final Thoughts

Istanbul’s vegan dining scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re seeking a Michelin-level tasting menu, traditional Turkish dishes reinvented as plant-based, or a quick street-food wrap on the go, the city has a rich selection of vegan restaurants to explore. Each establishment above brings its own perspective, creativity, and cultural flavor to the table—making Istanbul a paradise for vegans and food enthusiasts alike.

Enjoy discovering these culinary gems across the city—and afiyet olsun!