The Michelin Guide has expanded its prestigious list of restaurants in Istanbul, recognizing the city’s vibrant culinary scene with new stars and accolades. At a ceremony held at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosporus, the guide unveiled its latest selections, highlighting the exceptional talent and creativity of Turkish chefs.
Key Takeaways
- New Stars: Two restaurants received their first Michelin stars, bringing the total to 14 in Turkey.
- Sustainability Focus: Six restaurants were awarded the Michelin Green Star for their commitment to eco-friendly practices.
- Bib Gourmand Awards: Nine new establishments received Bib Gourmand recognition for offering excellent food at reasonable prices.
New Michelin Stars in Istanbul
The 2025 Michelin Guide introduced two new Michelin-starred restaurants:
- Casa Lavanda (Şile, Istanbul)
- Narımor (Urla, Izmir)
Continued Excellence
In addition to the new stars, several restaurants retained their Michelin status:
- TURK Fatih Tutak: Maintained its two-star rating, celebrated for its innovative take on Turkish cuisine.
- One-Star Restaurants: 13 establishments, including Mikla, Neolokal, and Nicole, continued to impress inspectors with their culinary excellence.
Sustainability in Focus
The Michelin Guide also emphasizes sustainability with the introduction of the Green Star award. This year, six restaurants were recognized for their eco-friendly practices:
- Casa Lavanda
- The Barn
- Telezzüz
- Mezra Yalıkavak
- Agora Pansiyon
- Asma Yaprağı
These establishments are committed to reducing waste, sourcing local ingredients, and promoting sustainable gastronomy.
Bib Gourmand Awards
The Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants that offer exceptional meals at reasonable prices. This year, nine new restaurants received this accolade:
- Ali Ocakbaşı (Istanbul)
- Aslında Meyhane (Urla, Izmir)
- Tatbak (Istanbul)
- Nazende Cadde (Istanbul)
- Beynel (Bodrum)
- Arka Ristorante Pizzeria (Bodrum)
Conclusion
Istanbul’s culinary landscape continues to flourish, with the Michelin Guide shining a spotlight on its diverse and innovative dining options. The recognition of new stars and sustainable practices reflects the city’s commitment to culinary excellence and environmental responsibility, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers around the world.