Lebanese Restaurants in Istanbul: Our 2022 Picks

Lebanese cooking leads Istanbul's Arabic food scene, with legume-based dishes such as falafel, hummus and tahini sauces at generally affordable prices. These are the eight places we picked in 2022.

Why Lebanese food is so popular in Istanbul

Among Arabic cuisines, Lebanese cooking stands out for its variety. Falafel, hummus and tahini sauces bring many meat-free options, which appeal to vegetarian and vegan diners, and prices are usually moderate.

Our eight picks (2022)

1. Falafel Tyros, Beyoğlu

Popular with visitors to Taksim, Falafel Tyros specialises in falafel, as the name suggests, served as a portion or a wrap. There are other Lebanese dishes too, but no meat.

2. Buuzecedi Lokantası, Fatih

Falafel, hummus, fatteh and broad beans in a small, warm and friendly room. You may have to queue, and ordering can take patience because staff speak little Turkish. There are no serving plates or forks, only spoons and lavash, and the food speaks for itself.

3. Al Sharq Istanbul, Kozyatağı

Part of the Kozyatağı Hilton, Al Sharq combines Lebanese food with entertainment. It suits large groups and business lunches.

4. Tahin, Moda

Tahin serves both meat and vegan Lebanese dishes, and its set menus are ideal if you want to try a little of everything. We visit the Moda branch most often because it is near our office, but Tahin has several branches.

5. Arada Cafe, Galata

A concept place for experiencing Lebanese culture, with kebab and breakfast options and a steady supply of hot pita.

6. Arabesque, Harbiye

Belly dance performances, kebabs and appetisers. We recommend it for a night out, and it is also an option for parties and celebrations.

7. Salloura Oğlu Restaurant, Fatih

Our choice for kebabs and sweets from Lebanese and wider Arabic cuisine. Communicating with staff in Turkish can be difficult, but it is worth the effort.

8. Al Hallab, Nişantaşı and Fişekhane

Al Hallab brings its long experience in food and hospitality to Istanbul with a well-known menu and an elegant setting. To meet growing interest from Turkish guests, it runs two branches on the European side, in Nişantaşı and Fişekhane.

Addresses

• Falafel Tyros — Asmalı Mescit, İstiklal Cd. No:150, Beyoğlu
• Buuzecedi Lokantası — Akşemsettin, Akşemsettin Cd. No:23, Fatih
• Al Sharq Istanbul — Sahrayı Cedit, Batman Sk. No:4, Kadıköy
• Tahin (Moda) — Caferağa Mah., Dr. Esat Işık Cd., Dalga Sk. No:2/A, Kadıköy
• Arada Cafe — Hacımimi, Lüleci Hendek Cd. 23a, Beyoğlu
• Arabesque — İnönü, Cumhuriyet Cd. No:38, Şişli
• Salloura Oğlu Restaurant — Molla Gürani, Turgut Özal Millet Cd. No:60/a, Fatih
• Al Hallab Nişantaşı — Harbiye Mah., Abdi İpekçi Cd. No:16, Şişli
• Al Hallab Fişekhane — Kazlıçeşme Mah., Kennedy Cd., Büyükyalı İstanbul Sitesi O Blok No:52, Zeytinburnu