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

Neolokal

Preserving endangered Turkish recipes in SALT Galata

Reviewed by Mes Prestiges Editorial Team Last reviewed May 2026
Karaköy |
$$$$ Premium for Restaurant
|
18:00 - 01:00 (Tue-Sat, closed Sun-Mon)
|
9.3 /10
| Last reviewed: May 2026

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.

Insider Guide

Must Order

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

Best Table

Window table overlooking the classic-elegant street

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

Ask For

Details about which regional recipes inspired each dish

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, 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

Party Size

Food & drinks
Total

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, 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

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Neolokal — reservations, hours, dress code, and price range.

Where is Neolokal?
Neolokal is located in Karaköy, Istanbul — SALT Galata, Bankalar Cad. No:11, Karaköy.
How do I make a reservation at Neolokal?
Reservations at Neolokal are essential. We recommend booking 1 week recommended in advance for weekdays and 2 weeks recommended for weekends. Reservation channels: website, phone.
What are the opening hours of Neolokal?
Neolokal is open 18:00 - 01:00 (Tue-Sat, closed Sun-Mon).
What is the dress code at Neolokal?
The dress code at Neolokal is smart casual. Casual elegance appropriate for the setting
What type of cuisine does Neolokal serve?
Neolokal serves turkish modern, anatolian cuisine.
How much does Neolokal cost?
The average spend per person at Neolokal is around 2500 TRY. Prices typically range from 1800 to 4000 TRY.

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