Vegan Dükkan is located in the Cihangir neighborhood of Beyoğlu, Istanbul, a bohemian district known for its artistic character and independent cafes. Opened in May 2022, the restaurant serves organic, homemade meals using clean, local, and organic ingredients. It is the sister company of Vegan Dukkan, the first vegan market in Turkey.
This small but ultra-popular vegan restaurant operates from a narrow street in the heart of Cihangir, where it has developed a dedicated following among locals and visiting vegans. The menu is primarily vegan with many gluten-free options marked, and the team is willing to work around other allergies, though the limited seating means there may be a wait.
Quick Facts
| Address | Cihangir Mahallesi, Soğancı Sokak No:8/D, Beyoğlu, Istanbul Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps |
|---|---|
| District | Beyoğlu |
| Metro | Taksim (M2, 6 min walk downhill into Cihangir) Kabataş (F1, 7 min walk uphill) |
| Admission | free |
| Best time to visit | The restaurant is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00–21:00. The quietest times are mid-afternoon (16:00–18:00) and immediately after opening (10:00–11:00). Peak lunch is 12:00–14:00; peak dinner is 19:00–21:00. Weekday visits (Wednesday–Friday) are less crowded than weekends. Since this is a small neighborhood spot, autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May) bring comfortable weather for walking to Cihangir. Summer can be warm and crowded with tourists; winter is mild but occasionally rainy. |
| Recommended duration | 1–1.5 hours |
| Cuisine | Turkish Vegan |
| Reservations | Walk-ins are welcome but the restaurant has limited seating and can have queues during peak lunch and dinner hours. For groups or to avoid waiting, phone ahead to check availability. No online reservation system; call +90 212 741 43 59. Takeaway and delivery options are available. |
| Website | vegandukkanlokanta.com |
| Operating status confirmed | October 2026 |
Reservations and Ordering at Vegan Dukkan
Vegan Dükkan does not have an online reservation system. To reserve a table, phone +90 212 741 43 59 during opening hours. Calling ahead is recommended during lunch (12:00–14:30) and dinner (19:00–21:00) when the restaurant fills quickly due to limited seating. Walk-ins are welcome outside peak hours; arrivals between 16:00–18:00 or after 21:00 usually have no wait.
Takeaway and delivery are available. For delivery, ask the restaurant directly for current partners or place a pickup order by phone.
Why Visit Vegan Dukkan?
The signature dishes include gluten-free spaghetti with plant-based ‘meatballs’, tofu katsu curry, and smoked eggplant. The menu features creative vegan dishes such as meat-free adana kebabs, gluten-free spaghetti, and vegan tofu katsu curry. Vegan Dükkan Lokanta focuses on health foods with both Western dishes and traditional Turkish dishes, such as mantı (Turkish ravioli) and kebab, and also makes a vegan version of ayran, the savory Turkish yogurt drink. The restaurant suits vegans, vegetarians, people with gluten sensitivities, and anyone curious about plant-based Turkish cooking in an intimate neighborhood setting.
Highlights of Vegan Dukkan
Turkish Vegan Kebab
The restaurant is noted for having the best vegan kebab. Rather than imitating meat, the house version uses layers of seasoned vegetables and plant-based proteins, served on pide bread or with rice. This dish exemplifies the restaurant's philosophy of reinterpreting tradition with plant-based ingredients while respecting Turkish flavor profiles.
Tip: Order with rice and a side of the house-made yogurt sauce to experience the full Turkish-style preparation.
Turkish Ravioli (Mantı)
Turkish ravioli is one of the restaurant's recommendations. The mantı, also known as Turkish ravioli, is a traditional Turkish dish. Vegan Dükkan fills these by hand with vegetables and serves them with vegan yogurt and spiced oil. This is one of the most intricate dishes on the menu.
Tip: Arrive early in the day when the fresh batch is available; these hand-rolled dumplings sell out.
Smoked Eggplant
Smoked eggplant is one of the signature dishes. The restaurant brings a bold, flavor-forward approach to Turkish food, and the smoked eggplant is a standout main. The eggplant is charred over flame, then blended into a silky purée, served warm as a traditional Turkish meze.
Tip: Pair it with fresh bread to scoop up the dip, the traditional way.
Gluten-Free Spaghetti with 'Meatballs'
The menu includes gluten-free spaghetti with 'meatballs'. The restaurant serves creative vegan dishes, and the raw beetroot salad is made with seasonal greens, beetroot, carrot, kale, sprouts, microgreens, and homemade almond feta cheese. This dish bridges international and Turkish tastes and demonstrates the kitchen's commitment to dietary accommodations.
Tip: Request the meatballs on the side if you prefer to taste them separately from the pasta.
Börek with Cashew Yogurt
The signature börek is topped with cashew yogurt. Börek is a traditional Turkish pastry, typically filled with cheese and spinach. Vegan Dükkan's version uses plant-based fillings and replaces dairy yogurt with a cashew-based alternative.
Tip: Order it hot out of the oven, as the flaky layers are best enjoyed immediately.
Cashew Ayran
The restaurant does a vegan version of ayran, which is a savory Turkish yogurt drink, made with cashews. Ayran is an essential Turkish beverage, salty and cooling. The cashew version maintains the traditional salty-savory taste while being fully plant-based.
Tip: This is the perfect accompaniment to any meal and a taste of authentic Turkish drinking culture.
What to Order
- Turkish vegan kebab
- Mantı (Turkish ravioli)
- Smoked eggplant purée
- Gluten-free spaghetti with plant-based 'meatballs'
- Börek with cashew yogurt
Atmosphere
The restaurant occupies a small, simple space on a quiet street in Cihangir, with a warm, intimate atmosphere. Tucked on a quiet street, the fully vegan lokanta brings a bold, flavor-forward approach to Turkish food. The walls are often decorated with local art, and the tables are close together, creating a community-like feel. The space has limited seating, which means there may be a wait during peak hours. The clientele is mixed: Istanbul vegans, curious locals, and international visitors seeking authentic plant-based Turkish food. At lunch (roughly 12:00–14:00) and dinner (19:00–21:00), the small room fills with the sounds of Turkish conversation, clinking glasses, and the kitchen preparing fresh dishes. The mood is casual and friendly, without pretense.
History of Vegan Dukkan
Vegan Dükkan opened in May 2022. This all-vegan eatery is the sister company of Vegan Dukkan, the first vegan market in Turkey. Both are owned and operated by a vegan team. The restaurant was born from the broader growth of the vegan scene in Istanbul during the 2020s, when several new vegan restaurants and shops began to open across the city. Vegan Dükkan filled a gap in Cihangir: a fully plant-based lokanta (traditional Turkish casual eatery) that treats vegan Turkish cooking not as a substitute for meat-based versions but as its own cuisine with integrity and flavor. The restaurant’s emphasis on local, organic ingredients reflects a wider movement in Turkish food culture toward farm-to-table dining and sustainability. Its success in a small, neighborhood-focused location has made it one of the most sought-out vegan destinations in Istanbul.
How to Get to Vegan Dukkan
By Metro: Take the M2 line and get off at Taksim or Şişhane station; Cihangir is just a few minutes’ walk away. From Taksim station, exit and walk downhill (south) into the Cihangir neighborhood. The restaurant is on Soğancı Sokak, a small street off Sıraselviler Caddesi. From Şişhane, walk uphill toward Taksim and turn into the Cihangir streets; it is slightly farther but quieter.
By Tram: The nearest tram station is Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Ü., a 5 min walk away. Take tram T1 to Fındıklı and climb uphill into Cihangir. Take the T1 line to the Tophane or Fındıklı stop, then walk up the hill.
Walking from Taksim Square: Exit Taksim metro or the square itself, then descend into Cihangir via any street heading south or southeast. Ask a local for Soğancı Sokak if needed; the street is narrow and easy to miss.
Accessibility
The restaurant is accessed by stairs or by downhill walking from Taksim. There is no elevator. The interior seating is at small tables in a compact space with limited legroom. The restroom is small and may be difficult for users with mobility challenges. Street-level access is from Soğancı Sokak, a narrow side street with uneven pavement. Wheelchair users should phone ahead (+90 212 741 43 59) to discuss feasibility; staff will assist where possible but the space is not purpose-built for wheelchair access.
Food Nearby
Cihangir is filled with independent cafes and restaurants within a few minutes' walk. Susam Cafe is a restaurant in the Cihangir neighborhood. Other options include bakeries, meyhanes (traditional Turkish taverns), pizza spots, and international cafes along Sıraselviler Caddesi. For groceries, small corner shops and a produce market are scattered throughout the neighborhood. The nearest larger supermarket is a 10-minute walk toward Taksim.
What to Bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes; Cihangir is hilly and involves ascending and descending narrow streets. Bring a small bag if you wish to carry any takeaway items. In winter, a light jacket is advisable. No special bag restrictions apply to the restaurant; standard security screening is not typical at casual eateries of this type.
Photography Rules
Photography is permitted inside the restaurant for personal use. Flash is not required or typical in the low-lit interior. The restaurant does not prohibit photos of food or the dining space for social media, though it is respectful to ask permission before photographing other diners. Drones and tripods are not relevant to a small indoor eatery.
Family Suitability
Vegan Dükkan suits families with children interested in plant-based food. The menu is free of common allergens (eggs, dairy) and naturally accommodates vegan children. The small, intimate space is not ideal for large groups or very young children who need space to move. High chairs are not available; children should be able to sit at regular tables. The food is not spicy by default, making it accessible to children's palates. Parents appreciate the healthy, homemade quality of the meals. The casual, friendly atmosphere welcomes families, especially at off-peak times.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- Call ahead before visiting with a group of more than four people; the small seating means your party may not fit at one time, and staff will appreciate advance notice to manage flow.
- The menu changes seasonally based on available local ingredients. Ask staff for current specials or daily dishes not on the static menu.
- If you have severe nut allergies, inform staff immediately; cashew-based yogurt and almond feta are used in several dishes.
- Arrive at off-peak times (mid-afternoon or late morning) if you want a leisurely meal; during peak hours, tables turn over quickly and you may feel rushed.
- The restaurant is tucked on a quiet side street; Soğancı Sokak is easy to miss at first. Look for it branching off Sıraselviler Caddesi, between Taksim and lower Cihangir.
Make an Outing of Your Visit to Vegan Dukkan
Vegan Dukkan is within walking distance of places that pair well with a meal. A simple way to build the outing:
Before or after your meal
Salt Beyoğlu – about 100 m away (~2 min walk) · typical visit: 2–3 hours14 min on foot from Tünel metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istanbul Research Institute – about 150 m away (~2 min walk) · typical visit: 1–2 hours11 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open 10:00–19:00, closed SunMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
St. Anthony of Padua Church – about 200 m away (~3 min walk) · typical visit: 30–45 minutes15 min on foot from Tünel metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Time needed: plan about 4.5–7.5 hours for the whole outing, including the meal (roughly 1–1.5 hours), the places above and the walking between them.
Explore Nearby Vegan Dukkan
Metro stations near Vegan Dukkan
Tünelabout 750 m away (~13 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Şişhane – about 850 m away (~14 min walk)Open daily 06:09–00:09Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Restaurants and cafes near Vegan Dukkan
Susam Cafe – about 950 m away (~16 min walk)6 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open daily 10:00–02:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
1924 İstanbul – about 50 m away (~1 min walk)13 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open daily 16:00–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Aret'in Yeri – about 150 m away (~3 min walk)13 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open daily 15:00–01:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Mikla – about 200 m away (~4 min walk)15 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open 18:00–01:00, closed SunMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Nightlife near Vegan Dukkan
Fiyaka Club – about 100 m away (~1 min walk)13 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open daily 23:00–04:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Back Street Taksim – about 150 m away (~2 min walk)12 min on foot from Tünel metro, Open daily 12:00–04:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Events and traditions near Vegan Dukkan
Istanbul Music Festivalabout 300 m away (~5 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istanbul Film Festivalabout 1.4 km away (~22 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
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FAQ: Vegan Dukkan
Is everything on the menu vegan?
Yes, Vegan Dükkan is a 100% vegan restaurant. Every dish is free of animal products, including meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, and honey. This makes it suitable for strict vegans and vegetarians.
Are there gluten-free options?
The menu is primarily vegan with many gluten-free options marked, and the team is willing to work around other allergies. Major selections of gluten-free dishes are available. Inform staff of your needs when ordering.
Can I make a reservation?
There is no online reservation system. Phone +90 212 741 43 59 to reserve a table, especially for groups or during peak meal times. Walk-ins are welcome but expect a wait during lunch and dinner.
What is the restaurant's policy on large groups?
The restaurant has very limited seating. Groups of more than four should call ahead (+90 212 741 43 59). Staff will do their best to accommodate you, but seating may need to be staggered or you may need to wait.
Does the restaurant offer takeaway or delivery?
The restaurant provides both dine-in and take-away options. Phone to ask about current delivery partners or to place a pickup order.
What are the nearest metro stations?
The nearest metro station is Taksim, a 6 min walk away. Kabataş (F1 line) is also nearby. Both are on the M2 line; Taksim is closest and most direct from the restaurant.
Is the restaurant accessible by wheelchair?
The restaurant is accessed by stairs and involves hilly streets in Cihangir. The interior is compact with limited maneuvering space. Wheelchair users should phone ahead (+90 212 741 43 59) to discuss specific needs.
What makes Vegan Dükkan different from other vegan restaurants in Istanbul?
This all-vegan eatery is the sister company of Vegan Dukkan, the first vegan market in Turkey. The fully vegan lokanta brings a bold, flavor-forward approach to Turkish food, reinterpreting tradition with imagination and heart. It focuses specifically on traditional Turkish home cooking reimagined as vegan, rather than serving international plant-based fare.
Istanbul Vibes is a one-person project. A coffee keeps it going
Other restaurants nearby
- Vera Restaurant Fish & Meat House (150 m) Google Maps
- me gusta (200 m) Google Maps
- Imroz (250 m) Google Maps
- Ehlitat Lokantasi (250 m) Google Maps
- Şampiyon Kokoreç (250 m) Google Maps
Distances are straight-line, from OpenStreetMap data.
Local Dishes to Try Here
BörekMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
KebabMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
MantıMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
AyranMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
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