A beloved Bosphorus fish restaurant on the Asian shore in Anadoluhisari, Ozkonak is known for its spectacularly fresh fish served in a casual waterfront setting. The view across to Rumeli Fortress from the tables is stunning. Go for the whole grilled sea bass.
Ozkonak Fish Restaurant sits on the Bosphorus waterfront in Anadoluhisari on the Asian shore of Istanbul, within short walking distance of the historic Anatolian Fortress (Anadolu Hisari), one of the oldest Ottoman fortifications still standing. The restaurant occupies a simple waterside building with outdoor tables that extend almost to the water's edge, offering unobstructed views across the narrowest point of the Bosphorus to the Rumeli Hisari (European Fortress) on the opposite bank — a crossing that has been strategically significant since the Byzantine era. The menu is straightforward: fresh fish and seafood bought daily from local fishermen who work the upper Bosphorus, prepared with minimal intervention — grilled, pan-fried, or baked in parchment. Sea bass, turbot, bluefish, and anchovy dominate the menu according to season. Cold meze of marinated fish, octopus, and tarator sauce precede the main course. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, consistent with the character of Anadoluhisari village, which has retained a quieter pace than the city center. Ozkonak is particularly popular with Istanbulites escaping the noise of central neighborhoods on weekend afternoons. Reservations are advisable for summer weekends.
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 12pm-11pm
- Reservations
- True
Location
Anadoluhisari, Beykoz/Istanbul
Highlights
- Waterfront tables at the narrowest Bosphorus point, opposite Rumeli Hisari fortress
- Daily fresh catch from upper Bosphorus fishermen served with minimal preparation
- Grilled sea bass and seasonal turbot as the standout preparations
- Casual village atmosphere in unspoiled Anadoluhisari on the Asian shore
Tips for visiting
- Visiting on a weekday avoids the weekend family crowds and guarantees a waterfront table
- Ask for sea bass baked in salt (kaya tuzunda levrek) if available — a superior preparation method
- Combine lunch at Ozkonak with a walk to Anadolu Hisari fortress, a 5-minute stroll along the waterfront
- Upper Bosphorus restaurants are best reached by Bosphorus ferry or by car; public buses are slow
Accessibility
The restaurant is at street and waterfront level with step-free access from the road. Outdoor tables are accessible. The interior is simple and on one level. Wheelchair access is straightforward to the outdoor dining area.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach Ozkonak from central Istanbul?
A taxi from Besiktas takes approximately 30–40 minutes. Alternatively, take the Bosphorus ferry and disembark at Kanlica, then a short taxi to Anadoluhisari.
What fish is available at Ozkonak?
The menu changes daily based on the catch. Bluefish is seasonal in autumn; turbot is a winter fish; sea bass and red mullet are available through most of the year.
Is alcohol served?
Yes — raki, wine, and beer are available.
What is the price range?
Moderately priced for Istanbul seafood restaurants — a full meal with drinks typically costs 800–1,500 TL per person.