Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Istanbul

We all know that meat is an important part of Turkish cuisine. We can find it in dozens of dishes such as kofte, doner, borek and kebab. But times are changing, and more and more people are eating vegetarian or vegan foods. As a cosmopolitan city, Istanbul recognizes that some of its residents and many tourists have joined the rise of plant-based cuisine. While it's often difficult to find a cafe or restaurant with a 100% vegetarian or vegan menu, it's not impossible.

In this blog, we profile five restaurants that specialize in vegetarian and vegan dishes. Whether you're plant-based or not, we're sure you'll be captivated by the possibilities. We hope you enjoy them!

By the way, we don't know if you realize this, but there is a website called Happy Cow where you can check out vegan and vegetarian options from around the world. This is a great app, perfect for non-meat eaters who travel a lot. Happy Cow will show you the location of the restaurant, some photos of the dishes, and the ratings users have given the restaurant.

Govinda

The first vegetarian restaurant we present to you is Govinda, a restaurant in the Mecidiyeköy in the Sisli district. This restaurant is known for its authentic plant-based Indian cuisine. In fact, it is believed to be the first restaurant in all of Turkey to serve vegetarian Indian cuisine. Prices are quite affordable and Govinda is the perfect place to enjoy a quality vegetarian meal, as its dishes go beyond vegetables and offer diners traditional options made with gluten, tofu or other vegan proteins.

KafeNAsanat

Located in Besiktas, KafeNAsanat is another favorite plant-based restaurant in the city. This place offers a completely vegetarian and vegan menu to suit all tastes. Among the dishes offered, Dürüm stands out because you can choose between several different types of protein, whole vegetables: tofu, falafel, meatballs, chicken nuggets, schnitzel... some options are so authentic that you Thought it tasted delicious meat. The menu also includes salads, pasta, soups and a variety of desserts.

Bi Nevi Deli

Bi Nevi Deli is a plant-based restaurant in Besiktas that uses ingredients from organic and local producers and makes vegan products on time. At this restaurant, you'll find fresh, seasonal breakfasts, lunches and dinners, carefully prepared and crafted with so-called "superfood" ingredients. The menu has a variety of dishes such as burgers, Mexican bowls, tacos, Asian chopped salads... It is such a treat to eat at this restaurant.

Mahatma Cafe & Restaurant

Fourth, we introduce you to Mahatma Cafe & Restoran, a vegan eco-restaurant located in Kadikoy district. It's an easy spot to spot, as it stands out for its colorful aesthetic: turquoise interiors and a patio furnished with tables and chairs in every colour. Also, the menu leaves no one indifferent. Mahatma Cafe & Restoran is known for its very delicate desserts and cakes with the most original decorations.

Community Kitchen

Last but not least, we present Vegan Community Kitchen, a very quirky vegetarian restaurant in the colorful Bala district. Some tourists who patronize the restaurant have described it as "going to grandma's house for dinner" because the owner of the restaurant is known for his hospitality and sensitivity to his customers. At the Vegetarian Community Kitchen you will mainly find traditional Turkish dishes such as kebabs made from plant-based products. Here's the perfect plan: wander the streets of Bharat and end the morning with a vegetarian meal at this cozy place.