Araka

The story

Araka, Istanbul: Michelin-Starred Modern Cuisine in Yeniköy

In the quiet Yeniköy neighborhood of Istanbul, Araka offers a dining experience grounded in simplicity and the natural richness of Turkish produce. Chef Zeynep Pınar Taşdemir, who founded the restaurant in 2018, leads a kitchen where vegetables and herbs are the clear protagonists. Her philosophy, shaped by years in Turkey’s finest kitchens, is one of minimal intervention—letting each ingredient speak for itself. This focused approach earned Araka a Michelin star, a recognition of its high-quality cooking and clear culinary vision.

The menu at Araka is an ever-evolving celebration of seasonality. Rooted in Chef Taşdemir’s vegetable-forward philosophy, the dishes transform local herbs and produce into artful compositions. While the spotlight remains on plants, the kitchen occasionally incorporates fine seafood or meat to create a harmonious balance of flavors. Guests can choose from an à la carte menu or a tasting menu, with vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescatarian options available for each service.

The setting is as considered as the food. Araka describes its own ambiance as calm and intimate, a space where the focus is squarely on the plate. Beyond the main dining room, the restaurant features a garden and offers catering and private event services, making it a versatile destination for modern cuisine in Istanbul.