Istanbul is a treasure trove of incredible restaurants, and one of the very best is Tuğra, at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel. Tuğra is a traditional Ottomon experience, with cuisine that is executed perfectly through innovative flavors, unique cooking techniques and meticulous presentation. Now, add-in the fact that you dine in a Sultan’s palace dating back to 1863 with incomparable views of the Bosphorus and the Asian side of the city, and you have a meal that is truly unforgettable.
Seated in the opulent space with soaring ceilings and incredible textures used on every surface from the walls to the floors, your senses are bombarded by color and beauty. No less than three servers attend to your every need while a true epicurean fantasy unfolds in front of you. The dinner began with an amuse-bouche followed by course after course of homemade breads, mezze, a delicious lamb dish called “Kulbasti”, black sea turbot and desserts only fit for a sultan. The experience was matched with a wine pairing from selected Turkish vineyards. Every detail was thought-of and prepared for.
Every bite at Tuğra was delicious – not one beat missed. This is truly one of the best dining establishments in the city and I would eat here over and over again. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the meal of a lifetime while in Istanbul.