Last Updated on 31/03/2023
Five restaurants in Istanbul received stars from Michelin for the first time. Ever since the Michelin Guide determined Istanbul as its new destination, the gastronomy industry has been in a rush. Finally, on October 11, when the results were announced, 5 of the best restaurants in Istanbul had the honor to earn Michelin stars in different categories. Let’s discover them together.
Michelin Star Restaurants in Istanbul 2023
Finally, 5 of the best restaurants in Istanbul earned the privilege of getting Michelin stars. This is an important event for the actors in the culinary sector in the world. TURK Fatih Tutak restaurant situated in Bomonti neighborhood got two stars. The extensive seasonal tasting menu at Fatih Tutak features sophisticated reinterpretations of traditional Turkish cuisine.
Which five Istanbul Restaurants won Michelin stars for the first time?
Besides, Türk Fatih Tutak restaurant, four other eateries in the city became among Istanbul Michelin star restaurants.
Mikla
Mikla is a restaurant and bar located on the European side in the Pera district. It is on the top floor of Marmara Pera hotel. At the Mikla restaurant in Istanbul, you can enjoy a glass of wine, sitting on the terrace with an exceptional panoramic view. Moreover, , Mikla has a large selection of good wines, at a price that matches the quality. Therefore, Mikla became one of Istanbul Michelin restaurants with one star.
Nicole
The restaurant stands on the top level of an old building. By fusing the Traditional Turkish Cuisine concept with a distinctive contemporary interpretation, Nicole Restaurant aims to provide guests with unforgettable culinary experiences on its stylish terrace presenting a breathtaking view of Istanbul. Besides, it was founded with inspiration from the historical past of the building and today’s modern reflections, The restaurant entered the list of Istanbul Michelin restaurant with one star.
Araka
Here, it’s simple to forget that you’re in Istanbul’s bustling metropolis. In fact, you are in the city’s northern Yeniköy neighborhood, just past the upscale marina you passed on the way. Moreover, behind its lovely exterior, a cozy, romantic interior and a terrace where you may escape the outside world await you in this rural-style restaurant. Araka got one Michelin star.
Neolokal
Located on the floor of Salt Galata, a few hundred meters from the bridge, Neolokal has resolutely a chic and sophisticated atmosphere and cuisine. Moreover, it includes a roof top with outdoor space and a sublime view of course. Beside the professional service, you can find in your plate, very good products cooked with elegance. Neolokal got one Michelin star and also the green star for sustainable gastronomy.
Bib Gourmand Award
Restaurant owners don’t know the date or time of the inspection. Moreover, an inspector may make three to six visits before reporting back to their fellow inspectors, to decide later the results. A restaurant can get a star rating between 0 and 3. Those who didn’t make it to become among Istanbul Michelin restaurants could receive the ‘Bib Gourmand’ award for serving up good food at an affordable price. Therefore, we would like to mention that 10 of the best restaurants in Istanbul were granted the “Bib Gourmand” award which refers to restaurants with “interesting value-for-money places”. They are the following:
- Karakoy Lokantasi
- Pandeli
- Alaf
- Aheste
- Tershane
- Giritli
- Calipso
- Cuma
- SADE Bes Denizler Mutfagi
- Aman da Bravo
Michelin Stars Rating for Restaurants
Lets find out more on Michelin restaurants stars rating
What is Michelin Restaurants Stars Rating?
Michelin stars rating is the highest symbol of culinary perfection in the world. Consequently, restaurants that have a particularly high grade can earn Michelin stars. TO explain, the designation can be with one, two, or three stars, according to highly qualified chefs all around the world. A single star refers to “a very good restaurant” when the star system was originally implemented in 1926. Two stars indicate “good cookery that is worth a detour,” while three stars refer to “outstanding cuisine that is worth a special expedition.” The second and third stars appeared in 1933. Since its first edition in 1900, the Michelin Guide has helped travelers locate mechanics, accommodations, and, of course, excellent dining options.
The idea gained popularity worldwide in the years that followed, and guides for significant cities all over the world were created. The business also engaged the assistance of the renowned Michelin Inspectors and created the stringent testing regime that has turned the Michelin Guide into the modern-day bible of fine dining. Today, many restaurants in the world including the best restaurants in Istanbul have the ambition to get Michelin stars to be a reference in the culinary world.
How did Restaurants in Istanbul get Michelin stars?
Secret Experts
In contrast to other ranking systems that depend on customers’ experience, Michelin stars rely on anonymous food experts known as the Michelin Inspectors to conduct covert inspections. Inspectors receive official Michelin Guide training in France while maintaining their anonymity to prevent receiving preferential treatment. They can’t speak to the media. Besides, the majority should have at least some prior restaurant industry experience. Even being encouraged to keep their actions from their families and friends! A Michelin Inspector is someone who is passionate and educated about food, has excellent attention to detail, and can pass for an average consumer.
The Taste Matters the Most
The experts evaluate each restaurant according to the same standards. They emphasize the quality of the ingredients, the cooking methods, and above all, the flavor. Although the comfort and quality are graded on a scale of 1 to 5 using a crossed fork and spoon sign, Michelin stars are only based entirely on the caliber of cuisine. Therefore, inspectors will not consider factors like restaurant decor or ambiance when awarding stars.
FAQ
Does Istanbul have Michelin-star restaurants?
Yes, Istanbul includes many Michelin-star restaurants.
How many Michelin-star restaurants are there in Istanbul?
In Istanbul, there are 5 restaurants with Michelin stars and 10 restaurants with Bib Gourmand award.
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