53 restaurants enter Michelin’s first Istanbul guide

A total of 53 restaurants have spotlighted in the selection of the Michelin's first Istanbul Guide, with Fatih Tutak's "Turk" the only place to receive two stars for its "exceptional cuisine."

Located in the Şişli district on the European side, Turk "offers a modern and sophisticated stage for gourmets looking for typically Turkish flavors," the guide said.

"The culinary preparations, which often feature delicate sour and smoked notes, the chef's signature, are forthright, precise and more importantly, express the chef's fondness of his region and his roots," it added.

Four other restaurants, which share an attachment to Turkish products and flavors, received one Michelin star.

Located in the neighborhood of Yeniköy, Araka proposes an escapade away from the hustle and bustle of the city, according to the guide.

"On the menu, chef Zeynep Pınar Taşdemir creates a highly personal and audacious cuisine with a focus on seasonal vegetables and herbs."

At Mikla, in the Beyoğlu district, the cuisine revisits Anatolian traditions with a touch of innovation. Celebrating all the richness and diversity of Turkish produce, the creations offer a flavor explosion, the guide said.

Located in the Modern Art Museum, Neolokal also serves a typically Anatolian repertoire.

"The daring techniques and culinary innovation result in dishes which are intended as a permanent bridge between tradition and modernity, just like the spicy cupcakes made from bulgur and a delicious chicken preparation, served with a creamy sauce, a seasoned chicken demi-glace and topped with crispy potato."

Finally, Nicole, in the Beyoğlu district, "proposes a subtle cuisine, where traditional Turkish recipes rub shoulders with Middle-Eastern spices."<...