Ismet Baba Fish Restaurant

Excellent fresh fish restaurant on the bosphorus in a traditional setting. The market fish prices are reasonable, however the drinks menu is very expensive. Overall awesome lunch overlooking the bosphorus, but be prepared to pay. Service was OK.

Let’s start with the positives: the setting is charming, and I had three small seafood meze dishes that were quite tasty. But let’s be honest — these were very small appetizers, barely enough to qualify as a single course. The waiters were quite insistent that I order a main dish, without giving any price indication. I declined — probably wisely, given other guests’ reviews. The bill? €31 for three bite-sized meze and a glass of water. That’s absurdly overpriced. To be fair, Baba is not the only one. Sadly, Istanbul’s dining scene has become overwhelmingly tourist-oriented, often at the expense of value and authenticity. It’s a growing trend — and a good reason not to return.

I think food is very expensive for its portions and quality. I paid 1000 TL for me alone for 1 starter (chose cheapest option) - main dish and side dish only (Chose middle rate option) & 1 drink. I was lucky to sit next to the window and the view was really nice.

The service, food, and atmosphere are amazing. The fish was fresh and perfectly cooked. Strongly recommend for sea food lovers.

Nice place right by the water with great views. Very busy with locals when I went on a Friday evening. Waiters helpful to foreigners, but not over-friendly. Food was fairly decent, but fried fish quite pricey for what it is.

The moment we entered the restaurant - it felt wierd . they clearly didn’t want us in . although almost all seats were free and empty , they made us sit at one of the only two tables which had no views of the sea. They claimed all other tables were reserved, the whole time we were there no one came in . But overall the food was great , fish was fresh and tasty. i wouldn’t recommend visiting if you are not a turk or look white

Such a beautiful view and great restaurant with fresh fish and delicious appitizers. Prices are very reasonable. We were able to find a table on a Friday night before 8pm but I wouldn't count on it and make a reservation. Servers seems to be working here for years and trust their recommendations.

According to a local guide, this is the best fish restaurant in town. And it was indeed very good! A whole experience actually. Not very touristic so don’t expect the staff speaking English. But they are friendly enough to communicate. The waiters took me to see the fish and starters myself and introduced me to raki.

First of all, you have found Kuzguncuk, so congratulations! One of the cutest neighborhoods on the Asia side, imo. Ismet Baba is great. The fish is fresh, the mezes are awesome and the price is reasonable. Doesn't look like much when you walk in but don't let that fool you! Try to sit by the windw and enjoy the view, some calamari and a glass of raki. You won't regret!

Don't go here! Dirty. Smells bad because they let people smoke right at the entrance. Food is mediocre at best. Although most of the staff is helpful, the manager makes sure you are not welcomed! Prices are high. Won't be back!