Neolokal

The MICHELIN Guide Türkiye Reveals its 2026 Restaurant Selection

"Distinguishes itself in Istanbul as a One-Star and Green Star restaurant with a remarkable wine program led by Ersin Topkara, winner of the MICHELIN Sommelier Award 2026. His deep knowledge of Turkish wines shows in a list that highlights what Türkiye’s wine regions can produce, with pairings that not only complement the food but also tell a story about the restaurant, reflecting careful study, a sensitive palate and a commitment to spreading the culture of Turkish wine." - The MICHELIN Guide

The World's 50 Best Restaurants | Previous Lists

"Neolokal is listed at the The World's 50 Best Restaurants in 2025 as rank 91." - The World's 50 Best Restaurants

"Neolokal bridges the gap between old and new. Respect for Turkish culinary traditions provides the foundation on which this restaurant is able to constantly renew itself. Flavours from the past are the mainstays here and are metamorphosed by the use of contemporary ideas and techniques. Maksut Aşkar and his young team preserve their culinary heritage and guide it into the future with their exciting cuisine. This also involves an emphasis on sustainability, with a vegetarian menu, using carefully selected local produce (including fine Turkish wines!) and working with nearby suppliers. Chef Aşkar puts his stamp on authentic recipes with a quirky subtlety. Think succulent dumpling with minced beef and bulgur, pine nuts and nuts seasoned with mild spices. A creamy emulsion of yoghurt with paprika and a parsley oil round off this light, original dish beautifully. The restaurant's location, in the Salt Galata, makes your experience all the more memorable. The large windows and fabulous terrace afford superb views of Istanbul's rooftops and magnificent mosques. Neolokal is truly special." - Michelin Inspector

Restaurants Carry Türkiye's Heritage Grapes to The Future

"Founded eight years ago with a wine list composed solely of local wines, this restaurant carries its motto—“We believe that those who do not know and protect their traditions cannot have a future”—into both glass and plate, pouring wines from every region of Türkiye. Pairing menus match dishes exclusively with wines from local grapes, and a newly designed second pairing menu adds global grapes cultivated in Türkiye; as new wines appear, new pairings emerge and the visibility of local grapes grows day by day. Overseen since day one by co-founder Erim Leblebicioğlu, the list holds over 200 local wines, roughly half made from local grape varieties, embraces natural wines in response to guest demand, and highlights terroir differences—think İçli köfte dumplings with Çalkarası and Kalecik Karası, or olive oil braised Jerusalem artichoke and chestnut with Ak Üzüm." - MICHELIN Guide

Three Istanbul restaurants that made an impression on our inspectors

"Set in the historic former National Ottoman Bank building—now home to the Salt Galata cultural institution—this vibrant restaurant bridges old and new with early Art Nouveau details preserved and respectfully brought into the 21st century. We were greeted by the buzz of a state-of-the-art kitchen before ascending a wooden staircase to a minimalist upper dining room enlivened by a colorful bar. A table on the spacious terrace is an absolute must, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping views over Galata’s rooftops and the minarets of Hagia Sophia and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, offering a serene sense of remove from the bustle. On the plate, an original medley of old recipes highlights a commitment to sustainability and local suppliers, letting Istanbul put its best foot forward." - MICHELIN Guide