Not a single day passes in Istanbul without a new flavor stop opening up. It is not surprising at all for the city, which has hosted different cultures, religions and nations for centuries to have this many different places. And every time, that freshness and new flavor confronts Istanbul residents and tourists. Maybe this is why the city attracts millions of people each year. Located right in the heart of the city, the district of Taksim is one of the liveliest places in this respect.
To tell the truth, Tayfun Topal again made a very ostentatious place.
The antique bar carts located in different corners of the restaurant add a very retro atmosphere to the place. The long caramel chester sofa also looks very authentic and the green curtains complete this whole composition.
People is like a combination of a nightclub and a fine dining restaurant.
There is live music at "People" on many nights of the week. The stage, situated in front of the open kitchen, creates a rather intimate ambiance. For this reason, "People" is like the mixture of a night club and a fine dining restaurant. It is both chic and fun. When it comes to dinner, I liked their "open kitchen" concept. At "People," everything is in front of your eyes and they also have a stone oven. The meat pitas they make in the stone oven are a must-try. Also, the squash with shrimp, truffle potatoes, crab fettuccini and sea scallops are wonderful. I congratulate Chef Asım Yıldız and urge you to visit "People" which is open for both lunch and dinner, as soon as you can.
Another one of my suggestions in Taksim is "Rana." Located on the Gümüşsuyu ramp when going down from Taksim Square towards Beşiktaş, "Rana" is having its name mentioned a lot these days. The place, owned by a couple, Yücel and Gülin Özalp, is pretty popular. It has a great view of the Bosporus Bridge and the Kabataş district. The inside is a perfect modern gin mill and there are antique paintings and brass trays on the walls. The flooring, on the other hand, is like that of old Beyoğlu apartments. There is also an antique showcase with old-types of decanters and glasses in it. Old Turkish songs play in the background and, in short, the venue "Rana" exudes nostalgia.
The menu at "Rana" mostly consists of mezes. Everything except the main dishes are brought to the table for sharing. Short chairs, dishes and glasses with plain designs make you feel like you're at an old restaurant and the menu is as plain as the table style. The marinated sea bass with ginger, eggplant with tahini, fried octopus and humus are must-try's. Among the main dishes, on the other hand, I suggest the rib steak. When it comes to desserts, the pumpkin with walnuts should be tasted. On the other hand, the service team is rather professional and friendly. It seems like "Rana's" name will be heard a lot during the winter season both with its view and its meals.
When you stop by Taksim, make sure to take a tour around the area besides spending time at these places. Select a nice activity for yourself by visiting the Beyoğlu Festival that is still going on. Take pictures in Taksim Square and tour Istiklal Avenue. Enjoy Istanbul's history, flavor and culture all in one spot!
Tips of the week
Top 3 Restaurants of the Week
- People / Taksim
- The Mule / Nişantaşı
- TOI / Kuruçeşme
Top 3 Hotels of the Week
- Four Seasons / Sultanahmet
- St.Regis / Nişantaşı
- Museum / Cappadocia
Top 3 People of the Week
- Ceylan Yıldırım / Producer
- Dilara Koçak / Dietician
- Emre Doğru / Photographer
