In recent years, healing flavors have become a global fascination, reflecting a growing interest in healthy living and natural remedies. There is increasing awareness that food can do more than just nourish the body. But centuries before modern wellness trends emerged, cooks of the Ottoman Empire were preparing dishes infused with medicinal ingredients.
Today, Deraliye Restaurant in Sultanahmet is bringing these traditions back to life, blending culinary heritage with the healing power of nature.
Culinary Wisdom from the Ottoman Court
The kitchens of the Topkapi Palace were not only known for their grandeur but also for their understanding of functional ingredients. Ottoman chefs created dishes designed to balance the body, support digestion, and improve vitality. Spices and herbs were selected not just for flavor, but for their medicinal properties—many of which are still used at Deraliye today.
Some of the most celebrated healing ingredients from the Ottoman repertoire include:
- Sumac: Rich in antioxidants and known to aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Clove: A powerful antiseptic, often used to alleviate toothaches and aid gastrointestinal health.
- Cinnamon: Used to regulate blood sugar and improve circulation, cinnamon was a staple in both sweet and savory palace dishes.
- Rose water and pomegranate: Both praised for their calming effects and high antioxidant content.
These ingredients are not merely sprinkled on top—they form the soul of many traditional recipes revived at Deraliye.
Deraliye’s Commitment to Healing Flavors
Located just steps from the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, Deraliye is not just a restaurant—it’s a bridge between Istanbul’s past and present. With a deep respect for historical gastronomy, Deraliye aims to preserve and celebrate the healing flavors and food traditions of the Ottoman Empire.
Under the guidance of Executive Chef Necati Yılmaz, the restaurant’s menu revives forgotten recipes and presents them with contemporary elegance. From slow-cooked lamb infused with sumac to saffron rice scented with cinnamon, each dish tells a story of healing flavor, function, and cultural memory.
Where Taste Meets Wellness
In a world where dining is often rushed, Deraliye offers a slower, more intentional experience—one where each bite is steeped in centuries of wisdom. Visitors don’t just taste Ottoman cuisine—they experience its philosophy: food as a source of pleasure, healing, and connection.
Chef Necati Yılmaz emphasizes this in his approach to every dish: “Ottoman cuisine was built on balance—between flavors, textures, and health. At Deraliye, we continue that legacy.”
A Unique Dining Destination in Istanbul
Whether you’re a traveler seeking an authentic taste of Turkey or a local rediscovering historical flavors, Deraliye stands out as a fine dining destination in Sultanahmet where the past is not only preserved—but brought to life.
Here, tradition is more than aesthetic—it’s served on every plate.
