Sultanahmet is not just the historical heart of Istanbul—it’s where the stories of empires, faiths, and flavors intertwine. From the shadow of the Hagia Sophia to the scent of spice-filled kitchens, every corner of this district whispers a tale. But for those with a true passion for food, Sultanahmet offers something even more enticing: a direct taste of the past.
The Birthplace of Imperial Cuisine
During the height of the Ottoman Empire, Sultanahmet was not only home to grand mosques and royal courts but also to the very origins of what we now call Ottoman cuisine. Cooked in the kitchens of Topkapı Palace, these dishes were refined over centuries and became a fusion of Anatolian, Balkan, Persian, and Arab influences—creating one of the richest culinary traditions in the world.
From richly spiced stews to fragrant rice dishes, palace cuisine was a reflection of the empire itself: complex, layered, and full of surprises.
What Makes Sultanahmet’s Food Scene Special?
Today, Sultanahmet continues to carry this culinary legacy with pride. Wandering through its winding streets, you’ll encounter traditional lokantas, spice stalls, and bakeries that still use century-old techniques. But among all these, only a few places offer a curated and historically faithful experience of Ottoman palace cuisine.
That’s where Deraliye Restaurant stands out.
Deraliye: Where History is Served on a Plate
Nestled just minutes from the Blue Mosque, Deraliye Ottoman Palace Cuisine is not just a restaurant—it is a time capsule. Recommended by Michelin Istanbul 2025 and Gault&Millau 2025, Deraliye reinterprets royal recipes with a chef’s precision and a historian’s respect.
- Why Food Lovers Choose Deraliye
- Located in the heart of Sultanahmet
- Offers an authentic Ottoman tasting menu
- Features dishes from real palace archives (as early as 1469!)
- Recognized by top international culinary guides
Led by a dedicated family of chefs with over 25 years of experience
Signature Dishes Inspired by the Sultans
Guests at Deraliye can enjoy the Sultan’s Tasting Menu, which includes dishes such as:
- Kaz Kebabı (Goose Kebab) – A 16th-century recipe from Sultan Suleiman’s private kitchen.
- Vişneli Yaprak Sarma – Grape leaves stuffed with spiced rice and sour cherry, balancing sweet and savory.
- Ali Nazik Kebab – Lamb skewers with eggplant purée, famously served to Sultan Selim I.
- Hoşaf – A lightly sweet fruit compote once favored in palace banquets.
- Katmer with Ice Cream – A regal dessert of pistachios and cream in thin baklava dough.
Every dish tells a story—from the ingredients chosen to the way it’s presented. It’s not just dining; it’s cultural immersion.
What Else to Try in Sultanahmet?
While Deraliye offers a refined take on palace cuisine, don’t miss out on these iconic local flavors as you explore the district:
- Simit fresh out of a street vendor’s cart
- Künefe at a hidden dessert shop in the back alleys
- Turkish coffee brewed in sand at an old-school café
- Mısır Çarşısı-style spice blends in boutique jars
A Journey Beyond the Landmarks
Visiting Sultanahmet often starts with history—the Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern. But it’s the food that brings that history to life. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a traveler looking for meaning behind every bite, Sultanahmet’s culinary landscape will stay with you long after the trip ends.
And if there’s one table you should reserve, one experience that will transport you to the very heart of the Ottoman Empire—it’s dinner at Deraliye.
Let your palate explore where empires once dined.
Book your table at Deraliye and turn your Sultanahmet visit into a feast of history.
