Sariyer Things to Do

Most of the Meyhanes (taverns) in Ortaköy have vanished as the district has become more and more gentrified: Ilham's Place is the last one remaining. Photographs of several decades of extremely satisfied customers cover the wal... more

Cantina was originally meant to be a Spanish restaurant and bar, but when that idea didn't take off, the owners did some fast rethinking. It's now a small pre-club joint with a long bar. A dance floor on the lower level can hol... more

Although hidden away at Mis Sokak, Club Purple is one of Istanbul's wildest nightclubs. Frequented by mainly gay and lesbian clientele, it is famous for its casual and comfortable vibe. White leather sofas and the purple decor... more

Located right in the center of the city's largest cinema complex, at first glance 35mm seems like one of those commonplace fancy sandwich joints. However, there is a subtle difference that makes 35mm a cool place to meet up wit... more

Godet is an intimate café by day and, more unusually, also functions as a store for clubwear, such as T-shirts, trousers and accessories. Come night time, it's a popular pre-club destination, mainly for early-bird clubbers head... more

Riza is one of Istanbul's suaver and quieter movie stars who hasn't yet given up film-making to own and run two bars: Cambaz and Palyaco. Like Cambaz, the decor in Palyaco is very laid back and comfortable, with thick wooden pl... more

This is a busy wine bar-cum-restaurant with a cool, clean European feel. It overlooks the pedestrian traffic on İstiklal Caddesi, and is located next to the Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage) and the Balık Pazarı (Fish Market). If y... more

Istanbul's most venerable jazz venue was recently renovated. Enjoying a prime location right next to the upper Tünel station, it's a café by day, overlooking the small square. Gramofon has a reputation as a classy place to hang... more

Tucked away inside the entrance hall of the Alkazar Cinema, this elegant dark wood 1940s style café is a popular gathering place for cinema-goers and socialites alike. It is laid out on two floors—the top floor hugs the walls a... more

The narrow entrance leading downstairs to the cellar level gives little away. Once through the low doorway though, you could be a million miles from Taksim Square, as you find yourself in a smart, Mediterranean-style bar, compl... more