1924 İstanbul
Istanbul
At a glance
Located in the vibrant Asmalı Mescit neighborhood of Beyoğlu, 1924 İstanbul is a restaurant that captures the essence of traditional European cuisine with a focus on Russian influences. The venue exudes an old-world charm, providing a cozy and historic atmosphere for diners looking to experience something different in Istanbul. Its interior décor reflects a vintage style that transports guests to a bygone era, enhancing the overall dining experience.
1924 İstanbul offers a menu that showcases a curated selection of dishes rooted in Russian and Eastern European culinary traditions. Diners can expect to find options that highlight the flavors and ingredients typical of these regions, served with an attention to detail that respects historical authenticity. The restaurant caters to patrons with an appreciation for classic cuisine delivered in an elegant and inviting setting.
The ambiance at 1924 İstanbul is both intimate and welcoming, making it suitable for those seeking a leisurely meal with friends or loved ones. The venue's unique character is complemented by its central location in Istanbul, providing easy access for visitors staying in or exploring the Beyoğlu area. Whether for a special occasion or a regular evening out, 1924 İstanbul offers a dining experience that is both culturally enriching and satisfyingly delicious.
Reviews
Liked a lot this place. Also the greatest thing was the table of Ataturk with name: Sonsuza kadar rezerve. Also u can try the Russian salads which I liked most and retro atmosphere
I visited this restaurant mainly for its historical importance. Notable customers included Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (the founding father of modern Turkey), Agatha Christie and Greta Garbo. I love its interior decor that reminds people of the good old times - dark wood paneling, giant crystal mirrors, glittering chandeliers, and original ceramic floor tiles. Borscht was really good. Beef Stroganoff with Mashed Potatoes was tasty. Service was professional. They have a cloak room that hang customers’ clothes, just like old days. The music was really loud which caused making conversations a bit challenging.
We recently dined at 1924 Istanbul with a group of business colleagues during a conference trip, and it was an enchanting experience from the moment we stepped in. Our host, Sasha, selected this gem for us, and it truly brought us together. Nestled on a charming street, the restaurant exudes a timeless ambiance with its beautiful wood finishes. The highlight of the evening was the delightful live accordion music that added a touch of class to the atmosphere. The food was absolutely divine, showcasing remarkable flavors that exceeded our expectations. Considering the exquisite quality and the memorable dining experience, the value was exceptional for the price we paid. I highly recommend 1924 Istanbul for anyone looking to enjoy a remarkable meal in a stunning setting.
1924 Istanbul restaurant is one of Istanbul’s most legendary venues, preserving the atmosphere of the Russian émigré era. Founded by Russian refugees in 1924, it became a meeting place for diplomats, artists, writers, and politicians. Of course, the main reason to come here is not just to eat borscht, but to touch the history of this iconic place. Atatürk himself used to visit the restaurant, and among its guests were Agatha Christie and Greta Garbo. The old wooden panels, mirrors, and live piano and accordion music still create a unique atmosphere. 1924 Istanbul is deservedly listed in the Michelin Guide for its cuisine. The menu features classic Russian and Eastern European dishes such as pirozhki, pelmeni, beef Stroganoff, and Olivier salad. On Fridays and Saturdays, there is live music, and the restaurant feels like a gastronomic museum. “Atatürk’s table” is always reserved for him as a symbol of respect and historical continuity. At the corner table where Atatürk often dined incognito and discussed state affairs with his associates, there is still a sign reading “Reserved forever”, along with a traditional setting of a bottle of rakı and a plate of white chickpeas — his favorite ritual, underscoring the venue’s reverence for his memory. There are also nameplates on other tables marking famous guests; metal plaques indicate who sat where over the years. The interior is filled with old photographs, objects, and artifacts from the émigré era. We ordered borscht served with garlic butter, cured pork fat, croutons, and pickles. The soup had plenty of meat, a pleasant tang, and a generous spoonful of sour cream. Then came manty with sour cream, which my husband tried and approved one hundred percent. For mains, we chose salmon on a bed of peas and beans and a steak with shredded potatoes. We enjoyed everything — the portion sizes, doneness, flavor, and service — and had no complaints at all. We were even lucky enough to get a table without a reservation. Address: Beyoğlu, Asmalı Mescit, Olivya Geçidi 7-A.
We had an unforgettable evening at 1924 Istanbul. ✨ The ambience is superb — elegant yet welcoming — and the food is simply perfect. The beef tartare, in particular, is the best we’ve ever had. Every dish was executed with care and flavor, making the experience one to savor. The service stood out just as much as the food. Professional, friendly, and genuinely warm, the team made us feel well looked after from start to finish. A special thanks to Seyhmus, who was exceptionally attentive, kept great care of us throughout the night, and even walked us to the taxi stand at the end — such gestures truly highlight the spirit of Turkish hospitality. It’s not the cheapest restaurant in town, but every penny is well deserved. We had one of the best nights in Istanbul here, and it’s firmly on our list of places to return. One more reason to love Turkey is the kindness and friendliness that shines through in moments like this. Highly recommended!
