Istanbul's rooftops: amazing views, exquisite dishes

With the warming weather, Istanbul's rooftops and terraces once again the place to go thanks to their atmosphere, exquisite food and mesmerizing views of Istanbul



The weather is getting warmer by the day, and rooftops and terraces around Istanbul are becoming more popular due to the shining sun. Many Istanbulites are looking for a place to enjoy fresh air and watch look out on great views of the city. It is a must to have a drink while enjoying the sunset over the Bosporus and a meal with a view of the entire city is a must in Istanbul.
Daily Sabah compiled a list of rooftop and terrace locations that have amazing atmospheres, good drinks and mesmerizing views of the sunset.
Mikla
One of the most-visited rooftops in Istanbul is Mikla, which opened in 2005 by Turkish-Finn Mehmet Gürs. Breathtaking views along with one of the finest dinners in Istanbul, what more could a visitor ask for? Mikla is a refined Istanbul restaurant for those who want to dine while being charmed by magical views of the Hagia Sofia and Topkapı Palace.You are sure to be taken for a gastronomic and historic ride through old Istanbul. Located on the top of the Marmara Pera Hotel, Mikla is funky and retro with chrome 1970s and 1950s furniture and a stunning wooden rail sleeper bar. Serving a tantalizing menu suitable for a variety of palates, Mikla opened a new Anatolian kitchen, updating traditional dishes with contemporary techniques. Address: The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Caddesi 15, 34430, Beyoğlu, Istanbul
Telephone: +90 (212) 293 5656
Leb-i Derya
Located in the Tomtom neighborhood, a top tourist location in Istanbul, Leb-i Derya is an exquisite lounge with an amazing view of the Golden Horn on its terrace. In the lounge you can have a drink in a cozy atmosphere while watching the sun set over the Bosporus.Leb-i Derya is located at the top of an old building on İstiklal Avenue, and it is one of the best restaurants to combine moonlight and the old Istanbul spirit. Its rooftop provides the perfect atmosphere to relax and have a drink on hot summer days and an indoor area to eat and enjoy the Istanbul landscape at the same time. On weekends a reservation is a must, but on weekdays you can find a place to sit. Leb-i Derya is a perfect place for a regular night out. It is open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. on weekdays and 4 p.m. to 3 a.m. on weekends.Address: Tomtom Mahallesi, Kumbaracı Yokuşu, No: 57/6, Beyoğlu, IstanbulTelephone: +90 212 2934989
360
Among the most well-known rooftops bars in Istanbul, 360 has been in business for the last 10 years and is located on the top floor of the Mısır Apartments in the Tomtom neighborhood. However, the rooftop is not the only reason to visit the Mısır Apartments, which is also famous among Istanbulites for its art galleries.360 gives its diners a 360-degree view of the city, all the way from the steeple of St. Anthony's Church to the Hagia Sophia and even further to the Bosporus. Many famous DJs such as Boy George, Roger Sanchez and Felix da Housecat can be seen at 360. The rooftop is renowned for its award-winning drinks, including cocktails and fresh fruit mixes. The desserts are also one of the most preferred dishes in 360 with their eye-catching names, such as Chocolate Orgazm and Death by Chocolate.
Address: İstiklal Avenue, Mısır Apartments 8th floor No: 163 Beyoğlu, Istanbul
Telephone: +90 212 251 10 42/43
Müzedechanga
With a terrace with an enchanting Bosporus view, Müzedechanga is situated in the lush garden of Sakıp Sabancı Museum. Müzedechanga – Turkish for "Changa at the museum" – offers a light, fresh, all day-menu for museum visitors with seating for 80 indoors and 120 people on the terrace. Transforming into a fine dining restaurant in the evening, this great spot offers high quality selection of Turkish dishes combined with Mediterranean freshness. Located in a glass box-like building, Müzedechanga reflects the atmosphere of 20th century Scandinavian design. The interior and all the furniture were designed by the award-winning Autoban design team. Address: Sakıp Sabancı Caddesi 42, Emirgan, Istanbul
Telephone: +90 212 323 0901
Spago by Wolfgang Puck
Located on the top of St. Regis Istanbul in the Maçka neighbor, Spago Istanbul rooftop restaurant and lounge combines stunning views of Maçka Park and the Bosporus with contemporary design and signature details that enhance the glamour of the setting. With portraits by Andy Warhol inside the cozy restaurant or sipping a drink with a Bosporus view from the terrace, Spago is one of the best terraces with its easily accessed location. The menu features Puck's famed wood-oven fired pizzas, appetizers, handmade pastas, a wide selection of entrees and seasonal cuisine with influences from all around the world.
Address: The St. Regis Istanbul, Mim Kemal Öke Cad. No: 35 Nişantaşı
Telephone: +90 212 368 08 08