One makes a pilgrimage here . The food takes you back to the ottoman kitchen. Chef Musa Dağdeviren who is at the helm of Ciya is not just a chef but a food anthropologist or a historian. When New Yorker write a glowing tribute or Netflix feature Ciya on a docu and more recently featured on World’s 50 best Discovery , you know there got to be some truth. The ingredients and fresh produce Ciya use are just superb and hence the delicious aromatic food. I have been to Ciya Sofrasi few times, whenever I am in Istanbul and I can just say that take the ferry and go to Kadikoy , immerse yourself in a fascinating gastronomical journey !
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Chose this spot due to the number of recommendations I found perusing reddit. There were plenty of customers (mostly tourists) for a Monday lunch, and prices were relatively reasonable.
Ordered the Lahmacun, Roasted Zuccini, Red Lentil Soup, Spicy Lamb Kebab, and the Onion Kebab.
Overall, the food was good, service was excellent, and it was a nice place. Nothing too special, so I wouldn't go here just for this restaurant, but if you're in the area, its worth a try.
Note down the modest portions for the rice pilaf (as shown in 1 of the images), if you're looking to order an additional rice pilaf.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
₺500–600
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Lentil Soup
Hearty food, fast service, affordable, several vegetarian options.
Lamb&beans casserole was in practice a bean soup with a couple of small meat bites. Bread wasn't great, the type you would use for sandwiches.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
₺300–400
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Tarhana Soup
Excellent food. Excellent service. I had no choice but to come back 2 days after my first visit. Even if you are staying on the European side, you definitely should take the ferry and try Çiya.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
₺500–600
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
