An iconic Beyoglu rooftop restaurant and bar at the Richmond Hotel on Istiklal Street. Leb-i Derya is famous for its panoramic views over the Bosphorus and Golden Horn, creative cocktails, and a menu of modern Turkish and Mediterranean dishes. One of Istanbul's most romantic settings.
Leb-i Derya Richmond occupies the rooftop of the Richmond Hotel on Istiklal Caddesi, Istanbul's principal pedestrian thoroughfare in Beyoglu, offering what is consistently ranked among the most spectacular urban views in Turkey: a panorama taking in the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, Topkapi Palace, the Princes' Islands in the distance, and the Galata Tower directly below. The restaurant's name — 'leb-i derya' means 'by the sea' in Ottoman Turkish — announces its defining proposition. The menu spans modern Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines: inventive meze, fresh fish dishes, lamb and chicken preparations with Turkish herb profiles, and an international selection that caters to the hotel's diverse guest mix. The cocktail programme is sophisticated and popular; the bar is a destination in itself for aperitivo hour and after-dinner drinks. The interior combines a partially covered terrace with an indoor dining room, allowing year-round operation regardless of weather. Weekend reservations are in high demand, particularly for terrace tables at sunset. The combination of accessible quality Turkish food, a well-executed cocktail list, and one of Istanbul's finest views has made Leb-i Derya Richmond one of the most visited rooftop destinations in the city.
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 11am-2am
- Reservations
- True
Location
Istiklal Cd. No:445, 34433 Beyoglu/Istanbul
Highlights
- Panoramic rooftop view of the Golden Horn, Bosphorus, Topkapi, and Galata Tower from Istiklal Caddesi
- Sophisticated cocktail programme — among Beyoglu's best-regarded rooftop bars
- Modern Turkish-Mediterranean menu suitable for both full dinner and drinks-only visits
- Year-round operation with covered terrace and indoor dining room
Tips for visiting
- The view at sunset (around 8–9pm in summer) is the peak experience — reserve specifically for this window
- A drinks visit to the bar without dining is entirely welcome and more affordable than a full dinner
- Book a terrace table explicitly at reservation; indoor seating has a more limited view
- The restaurant has a sister location in Kumbaraci; the Richmond branch has the superior elevation
Accessibility
The restaurant is reached via the Richmond Hotel elevator. The rooftop is fully accessible by lift from the hotel lobby. The terrace area has even flooring; wheelchair users can be accommodated with advance notice to ensure appropriate table placement.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a second Leb-i Derya?
Yes — a sister location operates in the Kumbaraci area of Beyoglu. The Richmond branch on Istiklal is the more famous and higher-elevation option.
Can visitors come just for drinks without dining?
Yes — the bar section welcomes drinks-only guests and is a popular pre-dinner or after-dinner destination.
What is the dress code?
Smart casual. The rooftop attracts a well-dressed Beyoglu crowd; overly casual attire may be turned away.
How busy does it get?
Weekend evenings in summer are extremely busy. Weeknight visits and lunch offer a less crowded alternative with the same views.