Istanbul’s Old Town—especially the historic Sultanahmet district—isn’t just home to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. It’s also a culinary destination packed with flavors as rich as the city’s history. Whether you're after a panoramic rooftop view, a royal fine dining experience, or the freshest seafood in the city, Sultanahmet restaurants near Hagia Sophia deliver unforgettable meals in unforgettable settings.
In this post, we explore top restaurants in Old Town Istanbul, including the iconic Seven Hills Restaurant, plus the best spots for seafood, fine dining, and rooftop romance.
If you're walking through Sultanahmet and wondering where to eat, here are the best restaurants Sultanahmet has to offer—perfect for every taste and budget.
No list would be complete without the famous Seven Hills Restaurant, arguably the most iconic Sultanahmet rooftop restaurant. Located just a stone’s throw from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, it offers jaw-dropping 360° views of Istanbul.
The moment you step onto the rooftop terrace of Seven Hills Restaurant, time seems to pause. To the east, the shimmering Bosphorus stretches like a ribbon toward the Sea of Marmara. To the west, the ancient domes and minarets of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque stand proudly, telling stories that span empires.
It’s not just a place to dine—it’s where Istanbul embraces you.
Seven Hills Restaurant isn’t merely one of the top restaurants in Old Town Istanbul—it’s an essential part of the Sultanahmet experience. With its fine seafood, unforgettable rooftop ambiance, and rich connection to Istanbul’s historic heart, it has earned its reputation as one of the best restaurants Sultanahmet has to offer.
Come for the view, stay for the food, and leave with a memory you’ll carry long after your visit. Whether you visit for a romantic dinner at sunset or a leisurely seafood lunch under the blue sky, this view alone is worth the journey.
