Nicole is a Michelin-starred fine-dining restaurant located in the Beyoğlu district. Situated on the terrace of Tomtom Suites in the historical Tomtom neighborhood, the restaurant offers views of the Historical Peninsula and the Marmara Sea.
Established in 2013 with French-influenced cuisine, since late 2021 the restaurant has been led by Executive Chef Serkan Aksoy, focusing on contemporary Anatolian cuisine. Seating is limited and intimate, with an interior bar area and the main terrace overlooking the city. Access is via steep cobblestone streets—a deliberate separation from the busier streets of Beyoğlu.
Quick Facts
| Address | Tomtom Kaptan Sokak No:18, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, 34433 Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps |
|---|---|
| District | Beyoğlu |
| Best time to visit | Evening visits are essential—the restaurant operates dinner only and is closed Mondays. Visit from April to June or September to November for the most pleasant terrace weather. Try for an evening or sunset time to enjoy the view. Weekday dining offers a quieter atmosphere; weekends are busier and require earlier booking. |
| Recommended duration | 2.5–3 hours |
| Cuisine | Modern Turkish, Contemporary Mediterranean |
| Reservations | Reservations are strongly recommended and essential, particularly for weekends. Book 1–2 weeks ahead for weekdays, 2–3 weeks for Saturdays and Sundays. The tasting menu (Menu No. 1) is only served until 20:30; after 21:00 only Menu No. 2 is available. Tables are held on the terrace weather permitting. Contact +90 212 292 4467 or reserve via the official website. |
| Website | nicole.com.tr |
| Operating status confirmed | October 2026 |
Reservations and Ordering at Nicole
Reservations are essential and should be made 1–2 weeks in advance for weekdays and 2–3 weeks for weekends. Book via the official website at nicole.com.tr or by telephone at +90 212 292 4467.
Walk-ins are not practical; this restaurant operates on a reservation-only basis.
Tasting Menu Availability: The signature tasting menu (Menu No. 1) is served only until 20:30; after 21:00, a second menu becomes available. If the tasting menu is your priority, arrive by 19:30 or 20:00.
Location and Access: The entrance is reached via a narrow, car-free pedestrian street in the Tomtom quarter. The restaurant is on the top floor, accessed by elevator.
Why Visit Nicole?
On the top floor, the elegance and luxury of the place is taken up a notch, and exquisite dishes and the well-heeled clientele show that this fine dining restaurant is of the highest calibre. The view it commands is one of the most comprehensive in Istanbul: the Galata Tower at eye level, the Bosphorus beyond it, and on clear evenings the Asian shore of the city dissolving into the hills. The seasonal tasting menu changes every six weeks to follow what local farmers and producers are offering, ensuring every visit tastes different.
Highlights of Nicole
The Terrace and View
At the entrance, you are greeted by works of modern art. On the top floor, the elegance and luxury of the place is taken up a notch – and the view of the old town from here is fabulous. The restaurant sits on the rooftop of Tomtom Suites, a 19th-century building in an embassy and consulate district, entirely removed from the noise of Istiklal Caddesi.
Tip: Try for an evening or sunset time to enjoy the view.
Contemporary Anatolian Tasting Menu
Since late 2021, the restaurant has been led by Executive Chef Serkan Aksoy, focusing on contemporary Anatolian cuisine. The seasonal tasting menu—offered in two versions depending on service time—combines traditional Turkish culinary heritage with refined contemporary technique, all sourced from dedicated local producers and farmers.
Tip: Tasting menu is only until 8:30 pm; they mention it on their website. Book early if this is your priority.
Turkish Wine Pairing
The wine program features carefully selected Turkish and international bottles, many from Turkish wine regions. The sommelier team offers thoughtful pairings that complement the contemporary interpretation of Turkish dishes, adding another layer of discovery to the meal.
Tip: Ask the sommelier for recommendations from lesser-known Turkish regions—the wine pairing is a key part of the experience.
Historic Building and Naming
The restaurant is named after Mother Agnès Marthe Nicole, a Franciscan nun who resided in the building during the early 20th century when it served as a convent. A series of narrow lanes leads to the building, which, as you will see, has undergone major renovations.
Tip: The building's history is part of its character; ask the staff about the restoration and its past as a convent and later cultural center.
Michelin Star Recognition
In 2022, Nicole became one of the first restaurants in Istanbul to be awarded a Michelin Star. Nicole is a one-star restaurant in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Türkiye.
Tip: This is one of very few Michelin-starred establishments in Istanbul; make reservations well in advance.
What to Order
- Seasonal tasting menu (Menu No. 1 until 20:30)
- Turkish wine pairing selection
- Dishes featuring Black Sea fish or seasonal seafood
- Contemporary reinterpretations of traditional Turkish vegetables and grains
Atmosphere
The terrace is quiet and deliberate, a deliberate contrast to the busier parts of Beyoğlu. Tomtom Suites occupies a 19th-century building on a street of embassies and consulates where the city seems to breathe more deliberately. Nicole sits on the rooftop of that building, and the view it commands is one of the most comprehensive in Istanbul. The interior bar area, small and refined, serves as an alternative to terrace seating. Staff are attentive and knowledgeable. Dinner service is evening-focused, with the main tasting menu available only until 20:30; the later service emphasizes a second menu option. Dress is smart casual to elegant.
History of Nicole
Established in 2013, Nicole was originally known for its French-influenced cuisine under founding chef Aylin Yazıcıoğlu. During this period, Nicole gained international recognition, notably being the highest-ranked Turkish restaurant on La Liste.
Following Yazıcıoğlu’s departure in late 2019, the restaurant closed for a two-year hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. It reopened with a new creative direction and leadership.
Since late 2021, the restaurant has been led by Executive Chef Serkan Aksoy, focusing on contemporary Anatolian cuisine. In 2022, Nicole became one of the first restaurants in Istanbul to be awarded a Michelin Star, a recognition it has maintained through subsequent Michelin Guide editions.
The restaurant is named after Mother Agnès Marthe Nicole, a Franciscan nun who resided in the building during the early 20th century when it served as a convent. The building has undergone major renovations, preserving its historical character while adapting it for contemporary use.
How to Get to Nicole
By Metro: No direct metro station serves Tomtom Kaptan Sokak. The nearest metro stop is Şişhane Station on the M2 line (Red Line); from there, exit and walk northwest through the Beyoğlu neighborhood, approximately 10–15 minutes uphill on cobblestone streets toward Istiklal Caddesi and beyond.
From Istiklal Caddesi: Walk northwest from the central pedestrian avenue toward the quieter residential streets. Tomtom Kaptan Sokak is a narrow, traffic-free lane a 5–10 minute walk from the main avenue.
Taxi or Ride-Share: Tell the driver “Tomtom Kaptan Sokak, Beyoğlu” (near the Italian Consulate). Due to traffic restrictions, the taxi will drop you at the mouth of the pedestrian street; from there, walk uphill to the building entrance. The restaurant itself is signposted.
On Foot: If staying near Taksim Square or Dolmabahçe Palace, allow 15–20 minutes to reach the entrance on foot.
Accessibility
The building is accessed via steep cobblestone streets and requires climbing multiple levels of stairs to enter. The interior has an elevator to the top-floor restaurant. Wheelchair users and visitors with mobility challenges should contact the restaurant in advance at +90 212 292 4467 to discuss accessibility options, as the exterior pedestrian approach and historic structure present limitations.
Food Nearby
The Tomtom quarter is residential and quiet; few other restaurants occupy the immediate surroundings. Istiklal Caddesi, a 5–10 minute walk away, offers abundant dining options. Beyoğlu more broadly has cafes, kebab houses, seafood restaurants, and street food vendors. The restaurant itself is the primary reason to visit this specific location.
What to Bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for steep cobblestone streets. In winter (November to March), bring a jacket for the exposed terrace, even if you are dining indoors. Smart casual to elegant dress is expected. No special bag restrictions apply, but the restaurant is formal dining; leave bulky backpacks and loud casual wear at your hotel.
Photography Rules
Interior and terrace photography is permitted for personal use. Tripods and professional equipment require prior permission. Flash is generally discouraged indoors to maintain ambiance. Drones are not permitted.
Family Suitability
Nicole is a fine-dining restaurant designed for adult diners and is not particularly family-oriented. While children are technically welcome if accompanied by adults and properly attired, the lengthy tasting menu, sophisticated plating, wine-focused atmosphere, and evening-only service make it unsuitable for young children or families seeking casual dining. Older teenagers (16+) with an interest in gastronomy may appreciate the experience with advance planning.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- Book your reservation as early as possible—preferably 2–3 weeks ahead for weekends. Friday and Saturday tables fill up months in advance.
- Arrive by 19:30 or 20:00 if you want the full tasting menu (Menu No. 1). After 21:00, only the second menu is served.
- Come for sunset or early evening (around 18:30–19:30) to see the Old Town and Bosphorus in the best light. Later in the evening, the view becomes less distinct.
- The wine pairing is worth the extra cost and is thoughtfully designed to complement the dishes. Ask the sommelier about Turkish wines—many diners discover new favorites.
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the steep, narrow cobblestone approach. The street is atmospheric but uneven and occasionally slippery when wet.
- Allow extra time for the first visit—the pedestrian approach is easy to miss, and the reservation-only format means late arrivals cause problems for the kitchen schedule.
Make an Outing of Your Visit to Nicole
Nicole is within walking distance of places that pair well with a meal. A simple way to build the outing:
Before or after your meal
Meşher – about 150 m away (~3 min walk) · typical visit: 1–2 hours4 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open 11:00–19:00, closed MonMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Museum of Innocence – about 200 m away (~3 min walk) · typical visit: 1.5–2.5 hours8 min on foot from Tophane metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Suriye Passage – about 200 m away (~3 min walk) · typical visit: 30 minutes–1 hour3 min on foot from Tünel metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Time needed: plan about 4–6.5 hours for the whole outing, including the meal (roughly 1–1.5 hours), the places above and the walking between them.
Explore Nearby Nicole
Metro stations near Nicole
Tünelabout 350 m away (~6 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Tophaneabout 500 m away (~8 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Restaurants and cafes near Nicole
Yeni Lokanta – about 200 m away (~3 min walk)3 min on foot from Tünel metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Vegan Community Kitchen – about 200 m away (~3 min walk)3 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open 12:30–22:30, closed MonMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Hodan – about 200 m away (~4 min walk)9 min on foot from Tünel metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Eleos Restaurant – about 200 m away (~4 min walk)2 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open daily 14:30–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Nightlife near Nicole
Flekk – about 200 m away (~3 min walk)9 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open daily 17:00–02:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Blind – about 250 m away (~4 min walk)3 min on foot from Tünel metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Train stations and river piers near Nicole
Karaköy Ferry Terminalabout 950 m away (~15 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Kabataş Ferry Terminalabout 1.4 km away (~22 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Events and traditions near Nicole
Istanbul Music Festivalabout 900 m away (~15 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istanbul Film Festivalabout 2.0 km away (~32 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Related guides
Galata Tower: Tickets, Views and 700 Years of History4 min on foot from Şişhane metro, Open daily 08:30–23:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istiklal Street: Walk Istanbul’s Most Famous Pedestrian Avenue12 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open 24 hoursMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Galata Bridge: Crossing Istanbul’s Golden Horn10 min on foot from Haliç metro, Open 24 hoursMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Topkapi Palace: Ottoman Empire’s Power, Treasures and Harem15 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open 09:00–18:30, closed TueMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Golden Horn: Istanbul’s Historic Waterway and Waterfront GuideMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Browse more: More in Beyoğlu · All Fine Dining · All Restaurants
FAQ: Nicole
Is Nicole really a Michelin-starred restaurant?
Yes, Nicole is a one-star restaurant in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Türkiye. In 2022, Nicole became one of the first restaurants in Istanbul to be awarded a Michelin Star.
Do I need a reservation?
Yes. The restaurant accepts reservations only and does not accommodate walk-ins. Book at least 1–2 weeks ahead for weekdays, 2–3 weeks for weekends, via nicole.com.tr or +90 212 292 4467.
What time should I arrive?
Tasting menu is only until 8:30 pm, they mention it on their website. Arrive by 19:30 or 20:00 for the main tasting menu. After 21:00, only a second menu option is available. The restaurant opens at 18:30.
Can I visit for lunch?
No, Nicole operates dinner only. The restaurant is closed Mondays and opens at 18:30 Tuesday through Sunday.
What type of cuisine is served?
Since late 2021, the restaurant has been led by Executive Chef Serkan Aksoy, focusing on contemporary Anatolian cuisine. The menu changes seasonally and emphasizes fresh, local Turkish ingredients with refined presentation.
Is the view of Istanbul really that good?
The view commands one of the most comprehensive in Istanbul: the Galata Tower at eye level, the Bosphorus beyond it, and on clear evenings the Asian shore of the city dissolving into the hills. Come at sunset for the best sight.
Is there a dress code?
Smart casual to elegant dress is expected. Avoid very casual wear such as athletic clothes or beachwear. The restaurant is fine dining and draws a well-dressed crowd.
How do I find the entrance?
The restaurant is located at Tomtom Kaptan Sokak No:18, on a narrow, car-free pedestrian street near the Italian Consulate in Beyoğlu. Approach from Istiklal Caddesi and look for the street entrance; the building is signposted and reached via an uphill cobblestone lane.
Istanbul Vibes is a one-person project. A coffee keeps it going
Other restaurants nearby
- Zanaat Atelye 1885 (150 m) Google Maps
- Limonlu bahçe (150 m) Google Maps
- Peymane (200 m) Google Maps
- Parole (200 m) Google Maps
- Olea Pizzeria (200 m) Google Maps
Distances are straight-line, from OpenStreetMap data.
Local Dishes to Try Here
Turkish WineMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Take this guide with you
Get a free PDF of this guide to print or read offline: key facts, tips and a map link on a few clean pages.
Report an issue on this page
How we research and update our guides
About this guide: AI assistance and accuracy
This guide is created with the help of AI and is based on official sources where available. Mistakes can still happen. Opening hours, prices, rules and other details are given to the best of our knowledge as of the date shown and can change without notice. It offers general recommendations only, not professional, legal or travel advice. Please confirm important details with the official source before you travel; you are responsible for your own plans and decisions.
* Affiliate link: as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
