Best Sea View Meyhanes in Istanbul: Waterfront Dining with Rakı
Updated: 3 hours ago
Istanbul is one of the few cities where you can dine by the sea on two continents. The city's meyhane culture thrives along its waterfronts, where fresh fish, homemade mezes, and rakı are enjoyed against stunning sea views. Here is your guide to the best waterfront meyhanes.
Short answer: For a sea-view meyhane on Istanbul's Asian side, head to the Moda waterfront in Kadıköy. Century-old Koço Restaurant sits across from Moda Pier; its terrace and garden look out over the Sea of Marmara, the Princes' Islands and Fenerbahçe. Book ahead for sunset. Koço seats more than 500 guests, and the terrace and garden are open all year round. Address: Moda Caddesi No:171, Kadıköy, Istanbul (across from Moda Pier) · Reservations: +90 216 336 07 95 · Open daily 12:00–00:00.
Koço Restaurant: Marmara Sea & Prince Islands View
Located in Kadıköy Moda since 1928, Koço Restaurant offers a wide panoramic sea view. From its west-facing terrace, diners look out over the Marmara Sea, the Prince Islands and the sunset. As one of Istanbul's oldest surviving meyhanes, it combines a century of tradition with breathtaking scenery.
A Seaside Meyhane Across from Moda Pier
Looking for a seaside meyhane in Istanbul? At Koço, across from Moda Pier, the spacious garden sets your table right beside the sea, and on summer evenings a cool breeze comes in at sunset.
In summer, cold meze leads the table: fava (broad bean purée), sea beans, aubergine salad and tarama, with honeydew melon and white cheese as the classic partner for rakı. Lighter hot meze such as fried calamari and fried mussels are summer favourites, and your waiter can tell you the freshest catch of the day. Our meze guide and seasonal fish guide go into more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which meyhane has the best sea view in Istanbul?
Koço Restaurant in Kadıköy Moda offers a wide panoramic view of the Marmara Sea, with the Prince Islands visible on clear days. Founded in 1928, it pairs the view with over 30 homemade mezes and daily fresh fish.
Can I watch the sunset at a meyhane?
Yes, Koço Restaurant's west-facing terrace in Moda looks out over the Marmara Sea at sunset. Arrive a little before sunset for golden-hour views over the Marmara Sea; sunset time changes with the season.
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