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Restaurants · Istanbul, Istanbul

Zuma Istanbul

  • CuisineJapanese Izakaya
  • CategoryFine Dining
  • VibeGlamorous and energetic, high-design Japanese theatre, affluent Istanbul night out
  • Price$$$$

Zuma Istanbul is the Turkey outpost of the internationally acclaimed Zuma brand, the Japanese izakaya-inspired concept that has become a byword for upscale, social Japanese dining in major cities worldwide. Located within the Zorlu Center luxury complex in the Levazim area of Besiktas, the Istanbul restaurant occupies a large, architecturally striking space consistent with the Zuma aesthetic globally: raw materials — stone, wood, and metal — combined with dramatic lighting to create a sophisticated yet energetic dining environment.

The Istanbul outpost of the globally acclaimed Zuma brand serving izakaya-style Japanese cuisine. Located in the Raffles Istanbul hotel, Zuma offers an extensive menu of sushi, robata-grilled meats, and innovative Japanese dishes in a stunning modern interior. One of Istanbul's most glamorous dining experiences.

Zuma Istanbul is the Turkey outpost of the internationally acclaimed Zuma brand, the Japanese izakaya-inspired concept that has become a byword for upscale, social Japanese dining in major cities worldwide. Located within the Zorlu Center luxury complex in the Levazim area of Besiktas, the Istanbul restaurant occupies a large, architecturally striking space consistent with the Zuma aesthetic globally: raw materials — stone, wood, and metal — combined with dramatic lighting to create a sophisticated yet energetic dining environment. The menu spans robata-grilled meats and vegetables, an extensive sushi and sashimi selection, Osaka-style kushiyaki skewers, tempura, and creative contemporary Japanese dishes. The robata grill is a visual centrepiece: an open charcoal fire over which wagyu beef, premium fish, and seasonal vegetables are cooked at high heat under direct supervision. Zuma's wine and sake list is extensive; the cocktail programme draws on Japanese flavors and techniques. The Zorlu Center location connects the restaurant to one of Istanbul's highest-end retail and hotel developments, making it a natural venue for corporate entertainment, special occasions, and international visitors staying in the Besiktas area.

Good to know

Hours
Daily 12pm-3pm, 6pm-1am
Reservations
True

Location

Zorlu Center, Levazim, 34340 Besiktas/Istanbul

Highlights

  • Istanbul outpost of the globally acclaimed Zuma izakaya-Japanese concept
  • Robata grill centrepiece featuring wagyu beef, premium fish, and seasonal vegetables over open charcoal
  • Extensive sushi and sashimi selection alongside Osaka-style kushiyaki skewers
  • Dramatic architect-designed interior in the luxury Zorlu Center complex in Besiktas

Tips for visiting

  • The robata-grilled wagyu beef and black cod are the signature orders and most emblematic dishes
  • Reserve a counter seat facing the robata grill if available — the visual experience adds substantially
  • A lunch visit is significantly more affordable than dinner and includes most of the same kitchen output
  • Omakase-style ordering through the waiter — selecting from all menu sections — produces the most satisfying meal

Accessibility

Zorlu Center is a modern luxury complex with full accessibility — lifts, ramps, and step-free access throughout. Zuma Istanbul's dining room is on one level and fully wheelchair accessible. The restaurant team is experienced in accommodating all guests.

Frequently asked questions

What is Zuma's concept?

Zuma is inspired by the Japanese izakaya — a relaxed drinking and eating establishment — elevated into an upscale dining format with premium ingredients, a robata grill, sushi counter, and sophisticated cocktail and sake programme.

Is Zuma Istanbul expensive?

Zuma is at the premium end of Istanbul dining — a full dinner with drinks per person typically runs 3,000–8,000 TL.

Do I need a reservation?

Yes — reservations are essential, particularly for weekend evenings. Weekday lunch is more accessible.

Is Zorlu Center easy to reach?

Zorlu Center is on the Zincirlikuyu metro stop on the M2 line. Taxis from Besiktas or Sisli take approximately 10–15 minutes.