Octo
Istanbul
Recensioner
We went twice to Octa. I had grilled chicken the first time which came with grilled vegetables - it was well-plated and grilled. Next time, I had Octo's signature food of which was the product (main ingredient) provided by women entrepreneurs. My partner had sunflower grill twice as they adored its taste and cooking technique The drinks are very expensive however I enjoyed the Turkish white wine. The atmosphere is mystical and provides comfort after the long Istanbul hills. Make sure you went up to the roof. The view is gorg!
Perched on the 9th floor of the JW Marriott Istanbul Bosphorus, Octo is a masterclass in "view-driven" fine dining. While many Istanbul rooftops rely solely on their vantage point, Octo backs up its scenery with a sophisticated, Michelin-recommended menu that balances Turkish heritage with modern Mediterranean flair. The "Billion-Dollar" View Octo offers one of the most comprehensive panoramas in the city. Because the hotel is housed in the restored Veli Alemdar Han, the restaurant sits at a perfect height to feel connected to the water. The Sightline: You get an uninterrupted 180-degree view that spans from the Maiden’s Tower and the Bosphorus Bridge to the minarets of the Old City (Sultanahmet). Timing: Arriving 30 minutes before sunset is essential. Watching the sky turn purple over the Golden Horn while the city lights begin to flicker is a quintessential Istanbul experience. Culinary Concept & Performance The kitchen focuses on high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients, often collaborating with local farmers and women-led cooperatives. The Signature: As the name suggests, the Grilled Octopus is a must-try. It’s expertly prepared—tender with a distinct smokiness and paired with vibrant Mediterranean accompaniments. Seafood & Beyond: The Grilled Sea Bass and Slow-Cooked Roasted Lamb Shoulder are standouts for those wanting a deeper dive into Anatolian flavors. Ambiance & Design The space, designed by the renowned firm Autoban, feels sleek and cosmopolitan without being cold. The Vibe: It’s intimate and romantic. The tables are spaced well enough for private conversation, making it a top-tier choice for a date or a celebratory dinner. The Bar: The cocktail program is inventive, using local botanicals and fruits. It’s worth arriving early to have a drink at the bar to soak in the "bohemian-chic" energy of the Karaköy neighborhood from above. I loved the view and wine in this restaurant. They have an in-house someliar "Ezel" who could advise on the different local Turkish wines. Fantastic service delivered by Ezel. They gave cheese to compliment with the wine. The view is as breathtaking as the menu. The price point is slightly on the higher end but it's worth it for the view, service and food #Octo #JW #Marriott
We stumbled upon Octo by chance while walking nearby and discovered it’s located on the 9th floor of the JW Marriott Bosphorus. It truly felt like finding a hidden gem. The atmosphere is relaxed and elegant, with calming music and a breathtaking view over the Bosphorus. What stood out immediately was how genuinely family-friendly the restaurant is. Our daughter was warmly welcomed with a coloring placemat and special children’s cutlery, which made us feel comfortable from the very beginning. The service was outstanding. Warm, attentive without being intrusive, and perfectly paced. The staff showed excellent knowledge of the menu and a natural sense of hospitality. Melissa and Sedat deserve special recognition for their kindness, professionalism, and thoughtful attention throughout the evening. We ordered the Semizotu Salatası, İstanbul Salatası, Fırınlanmış Organik Yarım Tavuk, and Tepsi Mantı. The İstanbul Salatası was a real standout and is highly recommended. Every dish was beautifully prepared and full of flavor. The roasted organic half chicken was perfectly cooked, and the tepsi mantı had a rich, comforting depth that truly impressed us. As a wonderful surprise, the chef treated us to a pomegranate sorbet. Exceptional, refreshing, and unforgettable. The price–quality ratio is excellent, especially considering the location and overall experience. Even though I am very critical, there was honestly nothing I would change. Perfect for both couples and families. Our daughter absolutely loved it, and so did we. This will without a doubt become our go-to address in Istanbul. Highly recommended.
I highly recommend this restaurant. The view is absolutely stunning, the atmosphere is wonderful, and the food is exceptional. The friendly and attentive staff make the experience even better. This place has so many great qualities that it’s hard to name them all. You simply have to eat here at least once. I especially recommend the fish — it’s absolutely delicious.
