Restaurant Assk Kahve

If ever you take a trip to the city where east truly meet west, there is nowhere better to enjoy a view of the Bosporus and sip slowly on ice cold lemonade than Assk Kahve. This little haven in a city bustling with market places and people is like walking into a different world. The food and drinks may be tasty and homemade, but it is the atmosphere that makes Assk Kahve one of the best places to enjoy the highlights of Istanbul.

The restaurant's name is derived from the word Ask, meaning love, and you can certainly feel it in this place. Cosy corners for couples or larger tables for friends to lounge around populate the open air deck, with stunning views over the narrow stretch of sea to Asia. It is especially beautiful around sunset, so head over early to bag the best seats in the house or you might be turned away. The staff is friendly (not to mention rather hard to drag your eyes away from) and are mostly patient and helpful if you don't speak the language.

But enough rambling about the views and the well-chosen waiters, let's talk food. It is light, simple, and homemade, using only the best produce on offer. The restaurant goes organic wherever possible, as well as making its own bread, ketchup, mayo and other condiments. The Turkish breakfast is an exceptional favourite on the weekends, complete with omelettes, eggs of several varieties, smoked salmon and fresh veg. For the healthy bods out there, their salads are colossal and perfect for a long lunch. Or if you're looking for a light snack, try their toasties - an Istanbul speciality and packed with a variety of meats and cheeses.

If you head over on a hot summer's day, get the mojitos in (or a lemonade for those who don't fancy the alcohol) and prepare for a couple of hours of pure tranquillity. Be warned that the prices are quite steep, but with such a stunning location, it seems just about worth it to us!

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Smoking area: yes

Quality:

Details: Muallim Naci Cad. No.64/B Kurucesme, Besiktas, Istanbul

Tel: 212-2654734