Çiya Sofrası Restaurant, Istanbul


The Çiya Sofrası restaurant has gained immense popularity thanks to the show Chef’s Table, in which it appeared in the 2nd episode of the 5th season. The Chef’s Table series is dedicated to the best or most interesting chefs in the world.

The owner of Çiya Sofrası is Musa Dağdeviren, a Turkish chef who has significantly contributed to documenting historical regional cuisine throughout Turkey. Musa’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the flavors and ingredients of his childhood. He is known for using forgotten ingredients such as wild herbs and plants, which he collects himself in the Black Sea region. His dedication to traditional Turkish cuisine has earned him international recognition, including a prestigious place on the list of the 50 best restaurants in the world.

Çiya Sofrası - appetizer plate

The restaurant prepares approximately 10 – 20 dishes daily based on the seasonal ingredients available, and it is also possible to choose from the appetizer bar. The price for appetizers depends on the weight, and main dishes can be ordered in large or small portions. A small portion is more suitable if you want to order multiple dishes.

Çiya Sofrası - main course selection

The menu includes, for example, lamb with onions, chestnuts, chickpeas, and turmeric, a hearty “anali kizli” soup with bulgur, lamb, chickpeas, and onions, or stuffed dried vegetables. All the food was excellently seasoned, and some combinations were quite unconventional.

Çiya Sofrası - dessert

For dessert, the restaurant offers candied fruits and vegetables – walnut, tomato, pumpkin, or eggplant. The staff is very pleasant, and you can easily communicate with them in English. If you want to go to the restaurant for dinner, a reservation is recommended.

Enjoy the interesting regional Turkish cuisine!

More information can be obtained by clicking on the map link:

Accommodation in Istanbul
I wholeheartedly endorse the Mest Hotel located directly in the heart of Istanbul. The hotel is elegantly renovated, the breakfasts are incredible and the views are spectacular. I last stayed here in the fall of 2022 and will definitely be back again.