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Sankai by Nagaya - Restaurant in Bebek, Istanbul
Restaurant Editor's Pick

Sankai by Nagaya

Authentic Japanese omakase with Michelin precision

Reviewed by Mes Prestiges Editorial Team Last reviewed May 2026
Bebek |
$$$$ Premium for Restaurant
|
19:00 - 23:00 (Tue-Sun)
|
9.2 /10
| Last reviewed: May 2026

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.

Insider Guide

Must Order

Trust the omakase - it's the only option and worth every course

Best Table

Counter seat directly in front of Chef Nagaya

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

Ask For

Counter seating when making reservation

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, japanese fine dining
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

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

Party Size

Food & drinks
Total

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, japanese fine dining

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

phoneinstagram

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Sankai by Nagaya — reservations, hours, dress code, and price range.

Where is Sankai by Nagaya?
Sankai by Nagaya is located in Bebek, Istanbul — Cevdet Pasa Cad. No:34, Bebek (Bebek Hotel by The Stay).
How do I make a reservation at Sankai by Nagaya?
Reservations at Sankai by Nagaya are essential. We recommend booking 2 weeks recommended in advance for weekdays and 3-4 weeks recommended for weekends. Reservation channels: phone, instagram.
What are the opening hours of Sankai by Nagaya?
Sankai by Nagaya is open 19:00 - 23:00 (Tue-Sun).
What is the dress code at Sankai by Nagaya?
The dress code at Sankai by Nagaya is smart casual. Respectful attire appropriate for fine dining
What type of cuisine does Sankai by Nagaya serve?
Sankai by Nagaya serves japanese, japanese fine dining cuisine.
How much does Sankai by Nagaya cost?
The average spend per person at Sankai by Nagaya is around 5500 TRY. Prices typically range from 4700 to 7000 TRY.

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