Nobu Istanbul brings Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s world-renowned Japanese-Peruvian cuisine to Istanbul’s business district, housed within the Süzer Plaza in Şişli. This Michelin-listed restaurant combines Nobu’s signature techniques and iconic dishes with locally sourced ingredients and Turkish influences.
The dining experience spans multiple intimate spaces, including an open terrace where floor-to-ceiling windows frame views across the Bosphorus to the Asian shore. The kitchen works with premium imports—black cod, yellowtail, lobster—alongside daily specials that reflect the season and market. Service is precise and attentive, designed for both celebratory occasions and quiet business dinners.
Quick Facts
| Address | Süzer Plaza, Askerocağı Caddesi No:6, Elmadağ/Şişli, 34367, Istanbul Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps |
|---|---|
| District | Şişli |
| Metro | Taksim (M2, Walk 10 minutes northwest via Cumhuriyet Caddesi) Levent (M6, Walk 8 minutes north across Askerocagi Caddesi) |
| Opening hours | Mon-Wed, Sun 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Thu-Sat 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm |
| Best time to visit | Autumn (September–November) and spring (April–May) offer the most pleasant temperatures and clearest Bosphorus views. Summer (June–August) is warm and busy with tourists. Winter is cooler but offers clear evening light. Weekday lunches (if available, as this is primarily a dinner restaurant) are quieter than Thu–Sat nights. Book early in the week for shorter waits; reserve further ahead for weekends. |
| Recommended duration | 2–2.5 hours |
| Cuisine | Japanese-Peruvian Fusion |
| Reservations | Reservations strongly recommended. Online booking through the official website (noburestaurants.com/istanbul) or OpenTable. Walk-ins accepted based on availability but tables often full. Private dining and omakase counter seating available. Dress code: smart casual. |
| Website | noburestaurants.com/istanbul |
| Operating status confirmed | October 2026 |
Reservations and Ordering at Nobu Istanbul
Reservations are essential and should be made 1–2 weeks in advance for weekend dining and 3–5 days ahead for weekday tables. Book online at noburestaurants.com/istanbul or via OpenTable. Walk-in diners are accommodated based on availability, but seats are frequently full during dinner service, particularly Thu–Sat. Same-day reservations are occasionally possible mid-week.
Private dining rooms and omakase counter seating are available for groups; these require advance notice. Dress code is smart casual (no trainers, no beachwear). The restaurant accepts all major credit cards (Amex, Visa, Mastercard). Pricing for Turkish residents and student concessions may differ from the standard menu. For current pricing, special dietary requests, and group bookings, visit the official website or call +90 212 334 30 34.
Why Visit Nobu Istanbul?
Nobu Istanbul offers one of the few consistently high-level Japanese fine-dining experiences in the city, with the distinctive Nobu formula of Japanese technique, South American ingredients, and refined presentation. The Michelin Plate recognition reflects kitchen discipline and ingredient sourcing. Beyond technical skill, the Bosphorus setting and multi-room layout create an experience suited to special occasions—a date night or business dinner where predictability and refinement matter more than local discovery. The omakase format allows the kitchen to showcase seasonal creativity.
Highlights of Nobu Istanbul
Black Cod Miso
Nobu's signature hot dish: a six-ounce fillet of black cod (sablefish) glazed with house-made miso and a touch of honey, then broiled until the miso chars slightly at the edges. The fish comes from premium suppliers and the glaze balances umami depth with a subtle sweetness. This dish appears on virtually every Nobu menu globally and defines the kitchen's approach to technique and ingredient quality. Expect a pale golden crust and butter-tender flesh inside.
Tip: Order this if you want the signature Nobu experience in one dish. It is often sold out late in service.
Yellowtail with Jalapeño
Thin slices of raw yellowtail (hamachi) arranged on a plate and finished tableside with a jalapeño-infused citrus sauce and a drizzle of white truffle oil. The South American influence (jalapeño and truffle) blends with Japanese sashimi tradition. The heat from the jalapeño cuts through the richness of the fish oil, and the acidity of the citrus brightens the palate. A foundational Nobu dish.
Tip: This is best eaten immediately after the sauce is applied; the acidity firms the fish slightly.
Rock Shrimp Tempura with Spicy Creamy Sauce
Deep-fried rock shrimp (sweet, firm-fleshed crustaceans) in a light, crispy tempura batter, topped with a spicy mayo that balances heat, salt, and umami depth. Rock shrimp texture is distinct from standard shrimp—slightly crunchy and sweet. The sauce adds richness and a controlled kick of capsaicin. This is one of Nobu's earliest signature dishes, created when the restaurant first opened in the 1990s.
Tip: Eat immediately; tempura loses its crispness quickly once plated.
Omakase Tasting Menu
A chef's selection format (called 'Signature Omakase' on the menu) that typically runs 12–15 pieces across raw and prepared courses. The selection changes daily based on market arrival and the chef's judgment. Recent versions have included sashimi salad with bluefin tuna, nigiri selections, hot preparations such as beef toban yaki (seared wagyu), and a chocolate dessert. This format gives the kitchen freedom to show technical range.
Tip: Omakase is the truest expression of what the kitchen is doing that day. Book in advance and mention dietary restrictions.
The Terrace Seating
Multiple outdoor and semi-outdoor seating areas overlooking the Bosphorus. Floor-to-ceiling glass and open-air sections allow unobstructed views across the strait toward the Asian shore and the Rumeli Fortress. Evening light casts the water in shades of bronze and grey. Table positioning ensures views regardless of the time of year.
Tip: Request terrace seating when reserving, especially for sunset hours (around 5–7 pm in summer). Seating may be limited on very windy days.
Signature Cocktails and Sake Selection
The bar program features cocktails crafted with Japanese and South American influences—citrus-forward preparations, sake-based drinks, and high-end spirits. The sake list includes premium bottles and by-the-glass selections that pair with both raw and cooked dishes. House-made ingredients (infusions, shrubs) add house character to the cocktail menu.
Tip: The bartenders are well-trained; ask for a recommendation based on what you are eating.
What to Order
- Black Cod Miso
- Yellowtail with Jalapeño
- Rock Shrimp Tempura Creamy Spicy
- Beef Toban Yaki (seared wagyu)
- Signature Omakase
- Chilean Seabass Umami
Atmosphere
The dining room is modern and polished without feeling sterile. Soft lighting, natural wood tones, and minimalist décor create a calm backdrop for the food. The terrace is the strongest draw—open-air seating with floor-to-ceiling glass opens onto Bosphorus views. The room fills with business diners early in the week (Mon–Wed) and a mix of couples and celebratory groups Thu–Sat. Noise levels are moderate; conversation flows easily.
The pace is unhurried but attentive. Service staff move with purpose, plate arrivals are timed, and water glasses are kept full. The energy is sophisticated without pretension—this feels like a place for experienced diners, not a scene.
How to Get to Nobu Istanbul
By metro: Taksim Station (M2 line). Exit toward Cumhuriyet Caddesi and walk northwest for 10 minutes along the street past the Ritz-Carlton signs. The restaurant is located within Süzer Plaza, a multi-use office and hotel complex. Alternatively, Levent Station (M6 line) is 8 minutes walk north, crossing Askerocagi Caddesi toward the plaza.
By taxi or car: Give the driver ‘Süzer Plaza, Askerocagi Caddesi No:6, Elmadağ/Şişli.’ Valet parking is available at the venue. Street parking nearby is limited.
Walking: The restaurant is situated in a business district with modern high-rises. Sidewalks are well-lit and pedestrian-friendly. Allow 10–15 minutes from central Taksim or nearby metro hubs.
Accessibility
The Ritz-Carlton complex and Nobu Istanbul include wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms. The ground-floor dining room is on one level with smooth transitions. Some terrace seating is accessible, though some sections involve steps. Contact the restaurant in advance (via the website or phone +90 212 334 30 34) to confirm accessibility of specific seating areas, as the multi-level terrace layout may limit options for wheelchair users.
Food Nearby
The Süzer Plaza complex itself contains several cafes and quick-service options. Nearby Nişantaşı is a residential and retail district with bakeries, sandwich shops, and mid-range restaurants within 5–10 minutes walk. Cumhuriyet Caddesi (the main approach to the metro) has Turkish fast food and kebab vendors. The restaurant district of Teşvikiye is a short walk northeast. Supermarkets (Carrefour, Migros) are present in the district.
What to Bring
A reservation confirmation on your phone. Smart casual attire (long trousers or a dress, closed-toe shoes; no trainers, sportswear or swimwear). An open mind about the omakase format if ordering the tasting menu—there's no à la carte alternative. The venue is indoors; weather is not a concern.
Photography Rules
Interior and terrace photography is permitted for personal use. Flash and tripods require staff approval; ask before setting up. The terrace offers excellent natural light in late afternoon and early evening, especially in summer and autumn. Note that other diners may appear in candid shots; be respectful.
Family Suitability
This is an adult-focused fine dining venue. The refined, slow-paced service and small-portion tasting formats suit older teens and adults more than families with young children. High chairs are not typically available, and the menu is built for adventurous palates (raw fish, complex flavors). Children above age 12 who enjoy sushi and are comfortable in formal dining settings may enjoy the experience; families with younger children should consider other venues.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- Book the omakase format for the best expression of what the kitchen is doing that day. It is worth the premium price and gives the chefs freedom to showcase both technical skill and seasonal creativity.
- Request terrace seating when you make your reservation. The Bosphorus views are a core part of the Nobu Istanbul experience and worth the slight premium if tables are priced differently. Sunset views (roughly 5–7 pm in summer) are most photogenic.
- Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail with Jalapeño often sell out by late service. If these are priorities, dine earlier in the evening (before 8 pm) or mention them when booking.
- The wine and sake list is strong but expensive. Signature cocktails offer better value and are well-made; ask the bartender for a pairing recommendation based on what you will eat.
- Allow 2–2.5 hours for dinner, including the aperitif and dessert course. The kitchen paces service to let flavors settle between courses. Do not rush; this is part of the experience.
- If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, allergies, etc.), mention them at the time of booking so the kitchen can prepare properly. Nobu kitchens are experienced in accommodating requests without compromising technique.
Make an Outing of Your Visit to Nobu Istanbul
Nobu Istanbul is within walking distance of places that pair well with a meal. A simple way to build the outing:
Before or after your meal
Maçka Park – about 450 m away (~7 min walk) · typical visit: 1–2 hoursOpen 24 hoursMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Atatürk Cultural Center – about 550 m away (~9 min walk) · typical visit: 2–3 hours8 min on foot from Kabataş metro, Open daily 10:00–18:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture – about 600 m away (~10 min walk) · typical visit: 1–2 hours11 min on foot from Kabataş metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Time needed: plan about 5.5–9 hours for the whole outing, including the meal (roughly 1–1.5 hours), the places above and the walking between them.
Explore Nearby Nobu Istanbul
Metro stations near Nobu Istanbul
Kabataş – about 650 m away (~11 min walk)Open daily 06:15–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Restaurants and cafes near Nobu Istanbul
Ayaspaşa Russian Restaurant – about 450 m away (~8 min walk)5 min on foot from Kabataş metro, Open daily 12:30–23:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Tiflisi – about 500 m away (~8 min walk)10 min on foot from Kabataş metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Kızılkayalar – about 750 m away (~13 min walk)11 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open daily 08:00–05:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Topaz – about 850 m away (~14 min walk)11 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open 18:00–00:00, closed SunMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Nightlife near Nobu Istanbul
Upperist – about 700 m away (~11 min walk)10 min on foot from Kabataş metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Craft Beer Lababout 950 m away (~15 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Train stations and river piers near Nobu Istanbul
Kabataş Ferry Terminalabout 850 m away (~14 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Beşiktaş Ferry Terminalabout 900 m away (~15 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Events and traditions near Nobu Istanbul
Istanbul Music Festivalabout 1.5 km away (~24 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istanbul Film Festivalabout 1.7 km away (~28 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
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FAQ: Nobu Istanbul
Is Nobu Istanbul really worth the price?
Nobu Istanbul holds a Michelin Plate, which reflects consistent technique, ingredient quality, and service. If you value Japanese fine dining, Bosphorus views, and the Nobu format (signatures like Black Cod Miso), the experience justifies the cost. It is not the only fine dining option in Istanbul, but it is one of the most reliable. First-time visitors often find it memorable.
Can I walk in without a reservation?
Walk-ins are accepted based on availability, but the restaurant is frequently fully booked, especially Thu–Sat. Expect a wait or potential turnaway. Book in advance (1–2 weeks for weekends) to guarantee a table.
What is the dress code?
Smart casual: long trousers or a dress, closed-toe shoes. No sportswear, trainers, or beachwear. A blazer is not required but adds to the formality. If in doubt, dress up slightly; this is a fine dining restaurant.
Is the restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton?
Nobu Istanbul is located within Süzer Plaza in Şişli, a separate building complex near (but not inside) the Ritz-Carlton. The two properties are close to each other but distinct. Nobu is accessible from both buildings.
What is omakase, and why is it more expensive?
Omakase is a chef's tasting menu (10–15 pieces) where the kitchen selects the day's finest raw and prepared dishes based on market arrivals. It showcases the chef's skill and creative freedom. It costs more because it often uses premium ingredients (sashimi-grade fish, wagyu) and reflects the chef's time and expertise.
Are there vegetarian options?
The menu is seafood and meat focused. Vegetarian diners should inform the restaurant at booking so the kitchen can prepare a suitable tasting menu or à la carte selections. This is possible but not the restaurant's main strength.
How far in advance should I book?
For weekend dining, 1–2 weeks ahead. For weekday tables (Mon–Wed), 3–5 days is usually sufficient. Summer (June–August) fills faster. Reservation requests can be made up to 2 months in advance via the website.
Does the restaurant offer lunch?
Nobu Istanbul operates dinner service only (opens 5 pm). Lunch is not currently available. Call the restaurant to confirm current hours.
Istanbul Vibes is a one-person project. A coffee keeps it going
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Distances are straight-line, from OpenStreetMap data.
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