3. Smelt & Co, Fatih
Open throughout the summer, the neat rooftop terrace of Smelt & Co overlooks Balat—one of Istanbul’s oldest and most cosmopolitan districts—as well as part of the Golden Horn. The rooftop terrace of Smelt & Co overlooks Balat, one of Istanbul’s oldest and most cosmopolitan districts, as well as part of the Golden Horn. Each item on the menu is fresh, creative and flavorful.
4. Biz Istanbul, Beyoğlu
Located inside the vibrant Atatürk Cultural Center, colloquially known as the AKM, Biz Istanbul is perfect for sampling some of Istanbul’s authentic street food favorites like fried mussels, crispy manti, mini borek, and spicy sucuk. Following the demolition of the old AKM building in 2018 and an extensive reconstruction project that ended in 2021, the new complex—designed by Murat Tabanlıoğlu, son of the original AKM building’s designer, Hayati Tabanlıoğlu—features a theater, cinema, concert halls, and an art gallery, along with several pleasant cafés and restaurants. With an open kitchen designed to give visitors great views of what’s happening behind the scenes—complete with wood-fired ovens and coal grills—and a carefully curated selection of wines and raki, Biz Istanbul’s rooftop bar is the perfect place to experience a little Turkish culture, both on and off the plate.
5. Monkey Istanbul, Beyoğlu
This cocktail bar sits above the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts. A non-profit, it aims to place Istanbul at the heart of the global arts scene. Salon Iksv is the venue that hosts concerts and other events. Before the event begins, visitors can have a sunset drink at the rooftop bar of Monkey Istanbul. The view is spectacular and overlooks the Golden Horn. You can follow the locals and sample a “Hot Passion”, a signature cocktail, or a mocktail while listening to house and disco music.
