Lokanta 1741 Restaurant
Historic Romantic Upscale
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Sultanahmet
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Michelin-recognized Turkish classics in a 300-year-old hammam with romantic rooftop terrace
Restaurant
The Sarnic Restaurant
Fine dining in a 1,500-year-old Byzantine cistern by candlelight
Reviewed by Mes Prestiges Editorial Team Last reviewed June 2026
Sultanahmet |
$$$$ Premium for Restaurant
| 18:00 - 23:00 (dinner show starts 20:30)
| Last reviewed: Jun 2026 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 Guide
Must Order
Ottoman palace dishesByzantine-inspired mezes
Pro Tips
- 542 AD Byzantine cistern - 1,500 years old
- Built by Emperor Justinian I for the Great Palace
- Candlelit with wrought-iron chandeliers
At a Glance
- Capacity
- 60 · intimate
- Cuisine
- ottoman, byzantine, modern turkish
Signature Dishes
- Ottoman Palace Dishes
- Byzantine-Inspired Mezes
- Modern Anatolian Creations
Signature Drinks
- Fine Wines
- Ottoman-Style Sherbet
- Raki
Insider Tips
Must Order
Ottoman palace dishesByzantine-inspired mezes
Pro 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
- 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
Must Order:
Ottoman palace dishesByzantine-inspired mezes
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about The Sarnic Restaurant, reservations, hours, dress code, and price range.
Where is The Sarnic Restaurant?
The Sarnic Restaurant is located in Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Sogukçesme Sokak No:26, Sultanahmet, Fatih.
How do I make a reservation at The Sarnic Restaurant?
Reservations at The Sarnic Restaurant are essential. We recommend booking 1-2 days ahead in advance for weekdays and 3-4 days ahead for weekends. Reservation channels: website, phone.
What are the opening hours of The Sarnic Restaurant?
The Sarnic Restaurant is open 18:00 - 23:00 (dinner show starts 20:30).
What is the dress code at The Sarnic Restaurant?
The dress code at The Sarnic Restaurant is smart casual. Elegant evening attire appreciated for this unique setting
What type of cuisine does The Sarnic Restaurant serve?
The Sarnic Restaurant serves ottoman, byzantine, modern turkish cuisine.
What should I order at The Sarnic Restaurant?
Signature dishes to try at The Sarnic Restaurant include Ottoman Palace Dishes, Byzantine-Inspired Mezes, Modern Anatolian Creations.
What is The Sarnic Restaurant best for?
The Sarnic Restaurant is especially popular for Special Occasion, Date Night, Tourists.
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What's Nearby
4 Restaurant, 2 Hotel · 6 places nearby, by straight-line distance
Distances are approximate straight lines, not walking routes. Check directions between stops.
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~330 m
Lokanta 1741
Restaurant · Fine Dining
~370 m
Four Seasons Sultanahmet
Hotel · Luxury Hotel
~370 m
Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet
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~390 m
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