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Neolokal - Restaurant in Karaköy, Istanbul
Restaurant Editor's Pick Partner

Neolokal

Preserving endangered Turkish recipes in SALT Galata

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Reviewed by Mes Prestiges Editorial Team Last reviewed December 2025
Karaköy |
$$$$ Mid-range for Restaurant
|
18:00 - 01:00 (Tue-Sat, closed Sun-Mon)
|
9.3 /10
| Last reviewed: Dec 2025

Chef Maksut Askar's mission is nothing less than saving Turkey's disappearing culinary heritage. Located in the stunning SALT Galata cultural center, Neolokal holds both a Michelin star and the coveted Green star for sustainability. Every dish tells a story of regional traditions reimagined for modern palates.

Editor's Tip

1 Michelin star + Green star. The classic-elegant building adds magic to the experience. Don't skip dessert.

1 Michelin Star
Michelin Green Star for SustainabilityWorlds 50 Best Restaurants #63 Pioneer of New Anatolian cuisine movement

At a Glance

Established
2014
Capacity
60 · medium
Chef
Maksut Askar
Cuisine
turkish modern, turkish modern, anatolian
Average Spend
2,500 TRY / per person
View
Historic Monuments, Courtyard

Signature Dishes

  • Heritage grains and ancient wheat preparations
  • Seasonal Anatolian vegetable dishes
  • Traditional fermented foods
  • Regional desserts revived from obscurity

Signature Drinks

  • Natural Turkish wines
  • House-made fermented beverages

Insider Tips

Must Order

Tasting menu to experience full range of heritage dishesHeritage grain bread basketSeasonal vegetable preparations

Pro Tips

  • The lunch menu offers exceptional value compared to dinner
  • Green star reflects genuine commitment to sustainability - ask about sourcing
  • Visit SALT Galata exhibitions before or after dinner
  • Seasonal menu means different experience each visit

Best Table

Window table overlooking the classic-elegant street

Pricing Guide

Per Person

2,500 TRY

Range: 1,800 - 4,000

Couples Dinner

5,500 TRY

Range: 3,600 - 9,000

Group of Four

11,000 TRY

Range: 7,200 - 18,000

Service charge: Not included | Tipping: expected 10 15

Budget Calculator

2 people

Minimum

—

Typical

—

Maximum

—

Atmosphere

Music

ambient

Subtle background music complementing classic-elegant ambiance

Volume Level

moderate

Conversation friendly

Capacity

60 guests

medium venue

Dress Code

smart casual

Casual elegance appropriate for the setting

Ambiance: natural lighting, classic elegant & modern minimalist style

Views & Setting

View Type

Historic Monuments, Courtyard

View Quality

Good

Indoor Terrace

Rain covered | Terrace available spring through fall

Food & Drinks

Cuisine

turkish modern, turkish modern, anatolian

Food Quality

*****/5

Chef: Maksut Askar

Bar Program

craft cocktails

sommelier curated wine list

Must-Try Dishes

  • Heritage grains and ancient wheat preparations
  • Seasonal Anatolian vegetable dishes
  • Traditional fermented foods
  • Regional desserts revived from obscurity

Signature Drinks

  • Natural Turkish wines
  • House-made fermented beverages
Vegetarian Friendly Vegan Options Gluten-Free Available

Reservations

Policy

Essential

Weekday

1 week recommended

Weekend

2 weeks recommended

Special table: 2-3 weeks for window seats

websitephone

Tip: Lunch service offers excellent value. Request window table for best atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit

Spring Autumn

Menu changes seasonally to reflect ingredient availability

Weather Dependency: low

Best Times to Visit

Best Days

Friday, Saturday

Best Time for Dinner

19:30-20:30

Avoid: Monday - closed

The Crowd

Age Range

30-55

Vibe

creative casual

Mix

55% Locals, 30% Tourists

couplesbusinessartistsyoung professionals

Instagram Worthiness: *****/5

Best spots: Historic interior, Table presentations, SALT Galata architecture

Perfect For

Date Night Anniversary Birthday Business Dinner Celebration

Max group size: 8 people

0

Kids: tolerated - Best for older children who appreciate fine dining

Recognition & Quality

Michelin one star

Awards

  • Michelin Green Star for Sustainability
  • Worlds 50 Best Restaurants #63

Consistency

reliable

Value for Money

*****/5

Local Opinion

beloved

Established 2014 | independent

Getting There

Parking

Not available

Difficulty: challenging

Transport

Taxi: convenient

Walking distance from Karaköy tram stop

Tell your driver: SALT Galata cultural center, classic-elegant bank building

Wheelchair Accessible Elevator Amex Accepted

Staff speaks: Turkish, English

Service style: friendly casual , leisurely pace

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