Karaköy Güllüoğlu - Nadir Güllü

I visited Güllüoğlu recently with my husband, and honestly, it’s unlike any other place I’ve been to before. The photo shows what we tried, and I have to say, it’s easily one of the best sweet treats I’ve ever had. I’ve tried lots of desserts from various well-known places, but this one really stood out — not just because of the taste, which was absolutely brilliant, but also because the whole atmosphere is fantastic. The location is great too, making it a proper experience rather than just a quick snack. The prices aren’t cheap, but considering the quality and the whole vibe, it’s definitely worth it if you fancy treating yourself. If I want to spend quite a bit on really good quality again, this is definitely where I’d come back to.

Great atmosphere, the store was lively when we went later at night. The baklava was incredible and worth the price, in my opinion. We got multiple types of baklava, but the original was our favorite. We ordered at the counter and then ate at a table. They also have free water!!!

Very large place with a self service kind of concept. I love the large backyard and the fact that there is free drinking water. Also I enjoyed the big baklava with milk cream. I would’ve loved the baklava with ice cream as well but one is definitely enough. Not too sweet, nutty and chewy. Superb! I’m normally not a big fan of the sweet Turkish desserts but this one was amazing!

Karaköy Güllüoğlu was at the top of my must-visit list in Istanbul after seeing it featured in a documentary, and it truly lived up to the hype. The baklava here is hands down the best I’ve ever had—perfectly flaky, rich, and flavorful. I highly recommend trying the Cold Baklava, which was incredibly unique and unlike anything I’ve tasted before. I loved it so much, I went back every night during my stay in Istanbul!

We had coffee, tea and a plate of mixed Baklava at this place. Everything is self service here. There is a huge outdoor seating area where you can relax and enjoy your food. Also prices here are very reasonable. We loved it here.

An Iconic Baklava Experience – A Must in Istanbul! If you're in Istanbul and don't visit Karaköy Güllüoğlu, you're seriously missing out. This place is a "baklava institution". The baklava is out of this world: perfectly crispy, rich in flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness. Every bite melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dessert that ruins all other baklava for you forever. The variety is incredible — from the classic pistachio and walnut to chocolate and even sugar-free options, everything is crafted with such precision and care. You can taste the tradition in every piece. The place is always busy, but the service is fast, efficient, and very polite. Despite the crowds, the staff remains patient and helpful — they’ll happily explain the differences between types if you’re overwhelmed (which you will be). Also, the location is great. Grab a tray, sit outside, enjoy a Turkish tea or coffee, and just watch the life of Karaköy pass by. One of the simplest yet most memorable pleasures of Istanbul. Absolutely 10/10. I'd fly back just for this baklava.

“Baklava is good — but not worth the hype or the price anymore.” Karaköy Güllüoğlu is often described as “the best baklava shop in the world,” and while the quality is good, I personally feel the title is no longer accurate. I had the ice cream baklava (dondurmalı baklava) at the shop — it was tasty, well-presented, and enjoyable. I also bought dry baklava (kuru baklava) to carry back to India. While the packaging was professional and travel-friendly, the prices were exorbitantly high compared to equally good baklava I’ve had elsewhere. Nowadays, we have excellent baklava shops in places like Dubai and other international cities that offer the same taste, quality, and freshness at a lower price. If you’re visiting Istanbul for the experience and ambiance, sure, it’s worth a visit. But if you’re looking to buy baklava in bulk or take parcels home, I’d suggest trying less touristy and more reasonably priced shops — you’ll likely get the same satisfaction without the steep bill.

One of the Must seen places of Istanbul. This place offers the most authentic baklava experience in the city. Their pistachio baklava is exceptional - crisp, not overly sweet, and incredibly fresh. Their specialty “Fıstık Sarma” is worth trying too. Prices are average and drinks are cheap (water is free). Don’t miss having their baklava with a cup of Turkish tea for the complete experience. If you’re visiting Istanbul, this historic shop provides a true taste of Turkish culinary tradition. Perfect for a quick sweet treat or to take boxes home as gifts.