The prestigious Michelin Guide has expanded its recognition of Istanbul’s vibrant culinary scene, unveiling its latest selections at a ceremony held at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosporus. This year, 32 new restaurants have been added, showcasing the city’s rich gastronomic diversity and talent.
Key Takeaways
- Total New Additions: 32 new restaurants recognized in the 2025 Michelin Guide.
- Michelin Stars: Two new restaurants awarded One Michelin Star, bringing the total to 14 in Turkey.
- Bib Gourmand: Eight restaurants received the Bib Gourmand award for excellent value.
- Green Stars: Six restaurants recognized for their commitment to sustainability.
Overview of Michelin’s Impact on Istanbul
Istanbul, a city that bridges two continents, boasts a culinary heritage that reflects its diverse cultural influences. The Michelin Guide’s presence in Istanbul, which began in 2022, has elevated the city’s status as a gastronomic destination. The inspectors evaluate restaurants based on five criteria: quality of ingredients, mastery of cooking techniques, harmony of flavors, the chef’s personality, and consistency.
New Michelin Star Restaurants
This year’s ceremony highlighted two new Michelin Star recipients:
- Casa Lavanda (Şile): Known for its farm-to-table approach, this restaurant sources 80% of its produce from its own gardens, offering a menu that blends Turkish and Mediterranean flavors.
- Narımor (Izmir): A small, intimate restaurant that combines local ingredients with refined culinary techniques, creating a unique dining experience.
Retained Michelin Stars
Several restaurants have successfully retained their Michelin Stars from previous years, including:
- TURK Fatih Tutak (Two Stars)
- Araka
- Mikla
- Neolokal
- Nicole
- Sankai by Nagaya
Bib Gourmand Awards
The Bib Gourmand award, which recognizes restaurants offering exceptional food at reasonable prices, was awarded to eight new establishments:
- Ali Ocakbaşı (Istanbul)
- Aslında Meyhane (Izmir)
- Tatbak (Istanbul)
- Araf İstanbul (Istanbul)
- Nazende Cadde (Istanbul)
- Beynel (Bodrum)
- Arka Ristorante Pizzeria (Bodrum)
- Agora Pansiyon (Milas)
Commitment to Sustainability
The Michelin Green Star, introduced to highlight restaurants committed to sustainable practices, was awarded to six new establishments:
- Casa Lavanda
- The Barn (Istanbul)
- Telezzüz (Istanbul)
- Mezra Yalıkavak (Bodrum)
- Agora Pansiyon (Milas)
- Asma Yaprağı (Izmir)
Conclusion
The expansion of the Michelin Guide in Istanbul not only celebrates the city’s culinary excellence but also encourages a commitment to sustainability and innovation in gastronomy. With its rich history and diverse flavors, Istanbul continues to captivate food lovers from around the world, solidifying its place on the global culinary map.