Romance in Every Corner: A Date Guide to Istanbul

A date is more than spending time together, it is a chance to escape from the modern world’s tempo, appreciate the precious people in our lives, and be grateful for the shared experiences. Istanbul may not be called the city of love, but it certainly is a place that hosts many love stories and tells its own romantic tale through fascinating views and romantic streets with the rapid flow of the city. While being an intersection point of many cultures, its atmosphere is constructed by historical and contemporary architecture, sea views, and delicious food. From candlelit dinners by the Bosphorus to quiet cafes in the streets of Kuzguncuk, Istanbul welcomes couples to discover the joy of love in their own unique way and preferences.

1. Luxury Italian Dinner—Il Cortile: If you are searching for an Italian restaurant that is impressive, elegant, and serves a first-class dining experience, then Il Cortile is the perfect place for you. The building was renovated from a French school and turned into a hotel. Il Cortile is settled in the hotel’s courtyard in the heart of Galata which allows you to feel the authentic Italian cuisine with the restaurant’s modern touches. Keep in mind that this restaurant requires reservation!

   

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2. A Different Experience—MSA Culinary School Restaurant: MSA Culinary School Restaurant is located within the Sakıp Sabancı Museum, in Sarıyer. This restaurant is the educational restaurant of the Culinary Arts Academy and is listed among the best culinary schools in the world. At MSA Restaurant, students who continue their professional education at the school, work both in the kitchen and in the service, and do their internships to consolidate the education they receive at the school in the most effective way in a real restaurant service. If you are interested in art, you can explore the Sakıp Sabancı Museum and then enjoy your meal with the stunning Bosphorus view. You are not required to visit the museum to enter the restaurant, therefore you can solely go there for the dining. The menu offers a plenty of choices from breakfast and beverages to delicious main dishes. It is prefered to make an online reservation before arrival.

   
   

   

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3. Rooftop Experience—Firuzende Galata: Firuzende Galata is a stylish rooftop restaurant with a breathtaking view of Galata Tower. From the rooftop, Galata Tower appears to be magically close, and the menu offers fish, kebabs, chicken, pastas, salads and Turkish classics like kumpir, stuffed grape leaves, and zucchini fritters. Guests can also choose a set menu for a complete dining according to their preferences. It is advised to make a reservation before going there, as there may not be available seats every time due to the crowd.

   

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4. Dessert and Cozy Date—San Sebastian Mutfağı: San Sebastian Mutfağı is the ideal place for dessert lovers, and it is famous for its signature cheesecake, along with other dessert options. It is located in Kuzguncuk, and the building is restored from a traditional Kuzguncuk house with a rooftop terrace. This place feels more like a home than a cafe because the interior design is authentic with nostalgic touches, from furniture to vintage plates, forks, and glasses. The warm and intimate atmosphere of this cafe is an ideal spot for couples who want a cozy and relaxing night together in a sincere ambiance.

   

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5. Budget-Friendly Bosphorus View—Duatepe Park: This park offers one of the most beautiful and fascinating Bosphorus views for couples who prefer being in nature rather than at luxury restaurants. The Duatepe Park is located in Hisarüstü and there is no menu here, so bring your own snacks and drinks to create the best dinner of your choice.

The photo is taken by the author

Whether it is a tasty meat dinner in a luxury restaurant, a candlelit Italian dinner in Galata, or a simple date in the park, Istanbul offers many ways for couples to celebrate and appreciate their love for each other. As Istanbul has many options for every budget, it reminds people that a date is not the measured by where they go, or how luxurious the restaurant is; but by the valuable time they spend with people in their lives.

Writer: Zeynep Sözbilir

Editor: Cemre Sanlav