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Restaurant Editor's Pick
Sankai by Nagaya
Authentic Japanese omakase with Michelin precision
Reviewed by Mes Prestiges Editorial Team Last reviewed December 2025
Sankai brings the meticulous traditions of Japanese fine dining to Istanbul. The omakase experience showcases the freshest seasonal ingredients, prepared with techniques honed over generations. The modern-minimalist space allows the food to be the star, earning it a well-deserved Michelin star.
Editor's Tip
1 Michelin star. True Japanese precision and respect for ingredients. Counter seats are the best.
1 Michelin Star
Best Japanese restaurant in Turkey Only Michelin-starred Japanese in Istanbul At a Glance
- Established
- 2018
- Capacity
- 24 · intimate
- Chef
- Chef Nagaya
- Cuisine
- japanese
- Average Spend
- 5,500 TRY / per person
Signature Dishes
- Omakase tasting course
- Fresh sashimi selection
- Seasonal nigiri
- Traditional Japanese preparations
Signature Drinks
- Japanese sake selection
- Premium Japanese whisky
Insider Tips
Must Order
Trust the omakase - it's the only option and worth every course
Pro Tips
- Omakase menu is 4,700 TRY - a journey through seasonal Japanese flavors
- Only 24 seats total - book as far in advance as possible
- Counter seats offer interaction with the chef - worth requesting
- Inform of allergies when booking - no substitutions during service
Best Table
Counter seat directly in front of Chef Nagaya
- Omakase menu is 4,700 TRY - a journey through seasonal Japanese flavors
- Only 24 seats total - book as far in advance as possible
- Counter seats offer interaction with the chef - worth requesting
- Inform of allergies when booking - no substitutions during service
Best Table: Counter seat directly in front of Chef Nagaya
Ask For: Counter seating when making reservation
Must Order:
Trust the omakase - it's the only option and worth every course
Pricing Guide
Per Person
5,500 TRY
Range: 4,700 - 7,000
Couples Dinner
12,000 TRY
Range: 9,400 - 15,000
Group of Four
24,000 TRY
Range: 18,800 - 30,000
Service charge: Not included | Tipping: optional
Budget Calculator
2 people
Minimum
—
Typical
—
Maximum
—
Atmosphere
Music
ambient, none
Minimal to no music - focus on the omakase experience
Volume Level
quiet
Conversation friendly
Capacity
24 guests
intimate venue
Dress Code
smart casual
Respectful attire appropriate for fine dining
Ambiance: warm lighting, modern minimalist style
Views & Setting
View Type
No View
View Quality
No View
Indoor
Food & Drinks
Cuisine
japanese
Food Quality
*****/5
Chef: Chef Nagaya
Bar Program
basic cocktails
limited wine list
Must-Try Dishes
- Omakase tasting course
- Fresh sashimi selection
- Seasonal nigiri
- Traditional Japanese preparations
Signature Drinks
- Japanese sake selection
- Premium Japanese whisky
Reservations
Policy
Essential
Weekday
2 weeks recommended
Weekend
3-4 weeks recommended
Special table: 1 month for counter seats
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Tip: Counter seats offer the best experience. Very limited capacity - book well ahead.
Best Time to Visit
Spring Autumn
Best Times to Visit
Best Days
Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Best Time for Dinner
19:00 - first seating
Avoid: Monday - closed
The Crowd
Age Range
30-55
Vibe
quiet refined
Mix
40% Locals, 40% Tourists
couplesbusinessyoung professionals
Instagram Worthiness: ****/5
Best spots: Counter preparations, Sushi presentations
Perfect For
Date Night Anniversary Birthday Business Dinner Celebration
Max group size: 4 people
Kids: not suitable - Adults only - formal omakase experience
Recognition & Quality
Michelin one star
Awards
- Best Japanese restaurant in Turkey
Consistency
reliable
Value for Money
****/5
Local Opinion
respected
Established 2018 | independent
Getting There
Parking
Not available
Difficulty: challenging
Transport
Taxi: convenient
Bus connections along Ciragan Caddesi
Tell your driver: Ciragan Caddesi, near the Palace
Amex Accepted
Staff speaks: Turkish, English, Japanese
Service style: professional , leisurely pace
Best For
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