Topside Bar

Great view! That’s about it. Service - a bit confusing, we had about 4-5 staff attending us. Had a chat with one staff and talked about preferences but then the one took the order was different staff & my friend didn’t get what she asked for and got annoyed. It was her birthday too.. to give credit, the staff apologised & offered replacement on the house. My first choice of cocktail - “Yemen”, was not available, so I had to pick another one - “HongKong”. It was okay, it tasted like normal margarita with chilli oil. Cost TL 1300 per glass - making it the most expensive cocktail I’ve ever paid - yet I didn’t get what I really wanted & got excited for. So overall, I didn’t get the experience I had hoped for. Very pricey too.

In line with the other reviews, the prices here are out of this world. For AUD50 a cocktail, there is no room for a single error or hiccup. Unfortunately my cocktail order was misunderstood, despite my explaining it to two different people. In my annoyance, I said I didn’t want it remade and waited for my friend to finish her drink. To give credit where it’s due, I did have two separate people come out and offer me a replacement on the house. I turned down the first one but the second one actually came with the remade cocktail so I accepted. It was tasty but unfortunately there was a little hair in the glass. Also I was told they don’t chill their cocktail glasses, which is unusual (for me) at that price point. Unlike the restaurant downstairs which I wouldn’t return to, I would probably give this place another go as they did seem very genuine. And it is a beautiful setting.

I had a wonderful experience at this bar in Karaköy. The Bosphorus view was absolutely breathtaking.l'd especially like to thank Mr. Harun for his kindness and warm hospitality. His genuine attitude made our visit even more special. Highly recommended

The location, the view and the staff/ service was good. However prices of the menu was ghastly. $50 for a cocktail and $30 for their local beer is wild. We ordered the lahmacun dumplings and realised the portions were comical and sadly they were also a bit cold on the inside. Maybe we got unlucky as it was also a very windy day but we simply did not enjoy our time

Delightful cocktails (some classic, some modern), inventive appetizers, beautiful view of the Bosphorus! Try Negroni, it’s a simple classic cocktail, but wonderfully executed at Topside Bar. Clover Club cocktail is probably the best I have ever had- perfectly balanced (not too sweet, not too sour). Beautiful rooftop bar, even though a bit pricy, but worth it. We came twice, were promptly seated and the Topside team took great care of us. Thank you!

Good view, great service, good choices of drinks. We only had drinks and enjoyed the sunset. View in serenity with quality service. Recommended.

Excellent view, very helpful [English speaking] staff, and delicious cocktails for a very agreeable price. My only slight disappointment was the selection of nibbles we were given was a bit limited. The worst part was not the fault of the bar, but the number of people smoking on the terrace was rather off-putting to non-smokers. We'll definitely be back, but will try to choose a quiet time with as few smokers as possible.

Topside Bar isn’t just one of my favorite spots in Istanbul — I truly believe it’s the best bar in the city. The atmosphere, the view, and the attention to detail make it an exceptional place. Sipping a cocktail with Bosphorus view from the rooftop is an experience itself. I especially recommend trying the “Hong Kong” cocktail — it’s one of the most balanced and creative drinks I’ve ever had. The flavor and presentation were both top-notch. The service was excellent; the staff were attentive, friendly, and clearly passionate about what they do. The ambiance strikes the perfect balance between elegant and relaxed — ideal for catching up with friends or unwinding after a long day. Special thanks to Alihan and Serdar for making the night even more enjoyable — your hospitality was truly appreciated!