Top Far East Restaurants in Istanbul

Interest in Far Eastern cuisine has been steadily growing across Turkiye. While Chinese and Japanese dishes are the most familiar to many, there has been a noticeable rise in restaurants representing lesser-known Asian cuisines as well. One of the main reasons behind this trend is that we’ve become increasingly open to new flavors and more curious about different cultures.

In recent years, Korean restaurants, for instance, have started popping up in various neighborhoods of Istanbul. Korean culture—through its films and music—has gained a loyal following not just worldwide but also here in Turkiye. Naturally, this cultural fascination has extended to the cuisine as well, boosting interest in Korean food.

You may have noticed that the Asian product sections in supermarkets are growing larger by the day. There's also been a noticeable rise in the number of people cooking Far Eastern dishes at home. I, for one, prepare an Asian meal at least once or twice a week. My fridge is always stocked with sauces and spices from these cuisines, and thankfully, they’ve become more accessible and affordable than they used to be.

One reason for this growing interest, in my opinion, is the increasing number of simple, visually appealing, and unique recipes from different cuisines we come across on social media. These quick and tempting videos make it easier—and more exciting—to try something new in the kitchen.

When it comes to international cuisines, Istanbul is by far the most diverse city in Turkiye. While it may not yet offer the same range of options as top European cities, the growing demand is a promising sign. In this post, I’ve gathered some of the best Far East restaurants in Istanbul. From budget-friendly spots to upscale venues, there’s something on this list for every taste and wallet.

Chinese Cuisine

Dragon: As one of the oldest and most renowned Chinese restaurants in the city, Dragon is the first name that comes to mind when someone mentions “Peking duck.” Their hot and sour soup and variety of noodles are also outstanding. Located inside the Hilton Hotel in Harbiye, Dragon has recently opened a second branch in Bebek as well.

Shang Palace: Nestled inside the Shangri-La Hotel, Shang Palace is one of Istanbul’s most authentic Chinese dining experiences, both in terms of its menu and interior design. Their dim sum is simply delightful, and the tea service is particularly memorable. Every year, they also prepare a special menu to celebrate Chinese New Year.

Tiang Xiang Fu Hot Pot: If you’re looking for a more interactive Chinese dining experience, Tiang Xiang Fu Hot Pot is just the place. Based on a traditional Chinese concept, each table comes with a boiling pot of broth where you cook thinly sliced meats and vegetables for 15–20 seconds, then dip them into flavorful sauces. This unique spot is located in Şişli.

+852 Hong Kong: Highlighting its dim sum offerings, this Hong Kong-style restaurant is located in Moda. Their menu features a variety of noodle dishes as well—each one bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.

Indonesian Cuisine

Koali: If you're curious to explore one of the lesser-known yet most unique cuisines of Asia, Koali in Galata is the perfect spot to try authentic Indonesian flavors. The menu features standout dishes like Nasi Goreng, Nasi Koali, and a variety of Satay—all of which are must-tries. Indonesian cuisine may not be widely familiar in Turkiye yet, but Koali offers a delicious and memorable introduction.

Japanese Cuisine:

Inari Omekase: Known especially for its creative sushi, this restaurant has branches not only in Kuruçeşme but also in Vadi Istanbul and Bodrum. In addition to warm sushi varieties, their teppan dishes are also excellent.

Miso Ramen: If you’d like to try ramen, one of the more unique flavors of Japanese cuisine, Miso Ramen is the place to go. Located inside Trump Tower Mall, the restaurant lets you choose your own ramen ingredients.

Udonya: One of the most authentic and oldest Japanese restaurants in Istanbul. Located in Taksim, it also has a large Japanese customer base. Besides sushi, the menu features other traditional Japanese dishes. Be sure to try their tempura and gyoza.

Korean Cuisine:

Çamsut: For Korean barbecue, head to Çamsut in Levent. It's the Korean version of our “cook it yourself” grill concept. You grill your marinated meats and vegetables on the barbecue placed in the center of your table. Be sure to try galbi, which is similar to ribs, and bulgogi—they’re must-haves.

Samconne: Opened by a Korean family, this restaurant is located in Mecidiyeköy. Their Korean dumplings, mandu, are delicious. I also recommend trying japchae, a noodle dish made with sweet potato starch.

Seorabeol: One of the oldest Korean restaurants in the city. You can find every traditional Korean dish here. Their pajeon (Korean pancake), bibimbap (rice dish), and bulgogi (beef dishes) are especially well-prepared. The restaurant is located in Gayrettepe.

Vietnamese Cuisine:

Ginza: Vietnamese cuisine is one of the rarest to find in Istanbul, but Ginza in Ortaköy helps fill that gap. The menu also includes Thai and Japanese dishes in addition to Vietnamese options. Their version of pho, the famous Vietnamese noodle soup, is excellent. The spring rolls, another Vietnamese classic, are also well-made.

Thai Cuisine:

Çok Çok Thai: This long-established restaurant in Tepebaşı recently opened a second branch inside the Soho Hotel. Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup are must-tries here. Their sister venue, Az Çok, also serves Thai cuisine and is located in Çukurcuma.

Pera Thai: One of the oldest Thai restaurants in the city, Pera Thai is known for its flavorful curry dishes and fried rice served in a pineapple—both are highly recommended.

Pan-Asian & Fusion Cuisine:

Banyan: Located in Ortaköy, Banyan offers a stunning Bosphorus view along with a diverse menu featuring flavors from Thai, Japanese, Singaporean, and Chinese cuisines. They also take pride in their sushi. The red curry shrimp dish is especially delicious.

Isokyo: A true Pan-Asian restaurant, Isokyo is part of the Raffles Hotel. Its menu highlights carefully selected dishes from across the Far East, and they offer tasting menus that bring many of these flavors together. Standout items include Korean-style fried chicken, salmon and oshi sushi with yuzu mayo, and lamb ribs with hoisin sauce.