Restaurant
Classic Classic
Balikci Sabahattin
$$$
Old City's finest fish restaurant since 1927
Restaurant
The Sarnic Restaurant
Fine dining in a 1,500-year-old Byzantine cistern by candlelight
In the heart of Sultanahmet lies The Sarnic, an extraordinary dining venue within a 1,500-year-old Byzantine cistern built in 542 AD during Emperor Justinian I's reign. Originally constructed to supply water to the Great Palace, this monumental feat of ancient Roman engineering now hosts intimate candlelit dinners accompanied by live piano. The menu reimagines Ottoman and Byzantine cuisine with modern elegance, served beneath six ancient pillars and a domed ceiling illuminated by wrought-iron chandeliers.
Editor's Tip
542 AD Byzantine cistern - truly unique. Built by Emperor Justinian I. Candlelit dinner with live piano. Near Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Dinner show at 8:30pm. Ottoman-Byzantine cuisine.
Insider Tips
- 542 AD Byzantine cistern - 1,500 years old
- Built by Emperor Justinian I for the Great Palace
- Candlelit with wrought-iron chandeliers
- Live piano dinner show at 8:30pm
- Steps from Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque
Atmosphere
Music
live piano, classical
Live piano music during dinner show starting 20:30
Volume Level
quiet
Conversation friendly
Capacity
60 guests
intimate venue
Dress Code
smart casual
Elegant evening attire appreciated for this unique setting
Food & Drinks
Cuisine
ottoman, byzantine, modern turkish
Food Quality
****/5
Bar Program
curated cocktails
curated wine list
Must-Try Dishes
- Ottoman Palace Dishes
- Byzantine-Inspired Mezes
- Modern Anatolian Creations
Signature Drinks
- Fine Wines
- Ottoman-Style Sherbet
- Raki
Reservations
Policy
essential
Weekday
1-2 days ahead
Weekend
3-4 days ahead
websitephone
Tip: Book for dinner show starting 8:30pm. Near Hagia Sophia - combine with sightseeing.
Best For
More in Sultanahmet
Discover other places in the neighborhood
