Dominique L.
Yelp
I first heard of 5.Kat in a Guardian feature on the best rooftop bars around the world. This made the list, and, having visited this place for myself earlier this year, can wholeheartedly agree that this definitely is one of the best rooftop bars that I have ever been to.
I visited the bar shortly before sunset and was blown away. The views were thoroughly amazing, and I fully encourage anyone visiting to walk around and take in the 360 degree view (including walking up the stairs to what seemed to be the staff smoking area).
I do agree that drinks are a little on the pricey side, but, to be fair, that's been the case with almost all places with amazing views that I've been to. I accept there's a premium to be paid because, hey, there must be plenty of people who come by and just nurse drinks, and, heck, one does need to pay the rent after all. Still, it wasn't exorbitantly expensive, nor did they seem to mind when it looked like I was only going to have the one glass of wine. I'll be the first to admit that their service wasn't terribly good; when my friend decided to join us and we decided to see if we could have dinner there, we were told there were no tables available, despite there being several empty tables and no reserved signs.
In any case, if you want a truly wonderful view of the magnificent city that is Istanbul, I highly, highly recommend this place for a quick drink or two. And come before sunset. You won't regret it.