Neolokal is a modern Turkish restaurant in Karaköy, Beyoğlu, known for chef Maksut Aşkar's tasting menus that rework old Anatolian recipes, served inside the SALT Galata building with views over the rooftops.
Neolokal occupies part of the SALT Galata building on Bankalar Caddesi. Michelin's inspectors mention large windows and a terrace overlooking Istanbul's rooftops and mosques, so ask for a window or terrace table when you book.
The idea is to link past and present Turkish cooking. Aşkar takes dishes from the country's home and regional traditions and gives them a small, sometimes playful twist. Time Out's early review explained the name: the focus is on where the ingredients come from and who grows them. Each dish arrives with a card that explains it. The Green Star recognises that commitment to local suppliers and seasonal produce, and the restaurant pours Turkish wines.
This is a sit-down tasting-menu dinner, best for a special evening, a couple or a small group of curious eaters. Vegetarians are well served here, which is unusual in Istanbul fine dining.
What to order
The 2026 menu on the official site offers three eight-course tasting menus: the main Tasting Menu, a Vegetarian Tasting Menu and a gluten-, lactose- and nut-free version. Each can come with a wine pairing or a premium pairing. Courses named on the spring 2026 menu include:
Seared lakerda (cured bonito) with wild greens
Erişte (Turkish egg noodles) with red shrimp
Slow-cooked lamb shoulder with freekeh pilaf
Seasonal vegetable mantı (vegetarian menu)
Keşkül-ü fukara, a milk pudding dessert, and pistachio tulumba
Good to know
Michelin lists the restaurant as closed on Sundays and Mondays.
The vegetarian menu contains egg and cheese, so it is not vegan. Tell staff about allergies when you book.
The menu notes that service is not included in the price.
There is a terrace with a view, and Michelin lists card payments.
Opening hours and menus change — check the official site before you go.
Nearby
Bankalar Caddesi (Bank Street) runs between the Karaköy waterfront and the Galata Tower area, so dinner here pairs easily with an afternoon walk around Galata. To learn the dishes behind the menu, read our guide to 30 Turkish dishes to try.
Been here?
Which tasting menu did you choose, and did you add the wine pairing? Share what you paid and whether you'd book again so other travellers can decide. Reply below.
Comments
Neolokal is a modern Turkish restaurant in Karaköy, Beyoğlu, known for chef Maksut Aşkar's tasting menus that rework old Anatolian recipes, served inside the SALT Galata building with views over the rooftops.
Quick facts
What to expect
Neolokal occupies part of the SALT Galata building on Bankalar Caddesi. Michelin's inspectors mention large windows and a terrace overlooking Istanbul's rooftops and mosques, so ask for a window or terrace table when you book.
The idea is to link past and present Turkish cooking. Aşkar takes dishes from the country's home and regional traditions and gives them a small, sometimes playful twist. Time Out's early review explained the name: the focus is on where the ingredients come from and who grows them. Each dish arrives with a card that explains it. The Green Star recognises that commitment to local suppliers and seasonal produce, and the restaurant pours Turkish wines.
This is a sit-down tasting-menu dinner, best for a special evening, a couple or a small group of curious eaters. Vegetarians are well served here, which is unusual in Istanbul fine dining.
What to order
The 2026 menu on the official site offers three eight-course tasting menus: the main Tasting Menu, a Vegetarian Tasting Menu and a gluten-, lactose- and nut-free version. Each can come with a wine pairing or a premium pairing. Courses named on the spring 2026 menu include:
Good to know
Nearby
Bankalar Caddesi (Bank Street) runs between the Karaköy waterfront and the Galata Tower area, so dinner here pairs easily with an afternoon walk around Galata. To learn the dishes behind the menu, read our guide to 30 Turkish dishes to try.
Been here?
Which tasting menu did you choose, and did you add the wine pairing? Share what you paid and whether you'd book again so other travellers can decide. Reply below.
Sources
Last checked: November 2026. Spotted something out of date? Reply below and the editorial team will update it.
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