Travel with Kids: Eating in Istanbul, Turkey with Kids

Ciya

Address Caferaga Mah. Güneslibahce Sk. 48/B Kadiköy, Istanbul Map, Tel (216) 336 30 13 Call, Website

Our meal at Ciya was the best meal we ate in Turkey. The atmosphere is simple, and we loved the outdoor patio seating, but the food is carefully prepared. This is a great place to try Turkish stews, turkish pizza, and mezze. A kabob restaurant across the street serves only kabob. Vegetarian dishes are also available. The staff is very accommodating with kids, and we were able to order mounds of fresh-baked bread and "Turkish Pizza" for them. more

Doi-Doi

Address Sifa Hamami Sok. 13, Sultanahment, Istanbul Map, Tel 212 517 1588 Call,

This bustling restaurant near the Blue Mosque is frequented by locals. It's a great place to try a variety of kabobs and stews, and the restaurant also serves pide (Turkish Pizza) baked in the wood fired oven. Families with young children may like to sit on the ground floor where kids can watch bread being made, but the sunnier upstairs seating and view terrace are also very nice. more

Pandeli Restaurant

Address Misir Carsisi 1, Eminonu, Istanbul Map, Tel 527-3909 Call, Hours Closed Sunday, Reservations Recommended Website

As you enter the spice market, look for a small, unassuming looking door on the left hand side of the entrance. When you step through it and climb the narrow stairs, you'll find yourself in a surprisingly upscale restaurant. This hidden dining room caters mostly to businessmen, but the staff is friendly and service is quick if you arrive outside of peak hours. The menu here is huge, and we had a difficult time confining ourselves to just a few choices. Kids may enjoy the kabobs, rice with peas, yogurt, fresh cucumbers or beans. more

Seasons Restaraunt at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet

Address Tevkifhane Sokak No. 1, Sultanahmet-Eminönü, Istanbul, Turkey, 34110 Map, Tel 90 (212) 402 30 00 Call, Website

A fancy restaurant in an upscale hotel might not seem like the best place to take your kids on a vacation in Istanbul, but if you have picky eaters, they'll be grateful. The Four Season's restaurant, located in a glass pavilion in the garden has a traditional kids menu including items like hot dogs, pizza, and chicken fingers. The staff is attentive, and kids are given coloring books and colored pencils. High chairs are available. more

Sofyali 9

Address Asmalimescit Cad, Sofyali Sok. No:9, Beyoglu, Istanbul Map, Tel 0 212 245 03 62 Call, Website

This small restaurant is at once homey and fashionable. While it doesn't specifically cater to kids, the staff is very friendly. You will choose your own food here from large trays filled with different "Mezes" or small plates - making this an ideal choice for fast service with children. Food is fresh and flavorful, and this was among our best meals. more

Tarihi Sultanahmet Koftecisi

Address Divan yolu cad 12, Istanbul, Turkey? Map, Tel 0212 513 1438? Call, Website

Sometimes a restaurant is popular for being popular, and that seems to be the case with Tarihi Sultanahmet Koftecisi. The kabobs here are good, but not exceptional. Still, the service is quick, prices are reasonable, and the restaurant is located just a few minutes walk from the Blue Mosque and Aya Sofia. You'll see lots of local families grabbing a quick lunch along with the tourists. This place is bustling, and your children will hardly be noticed, let alone made to feel uncomfortable. more

The House Cafe

Address ?stiklal Caddesi M?s?r Apt. No: 163 Beyo?lu ?stanbul Map, Tel 0212 251 7991 Call, Locations Other locations inlcude Website

When your kids are craving American food, but you'd like to dine in an environment nicer than Pizza Hut, the House Cafe is a good choice. The simple dishes, which include choices like Pizza, Burgers and more work well for kids, and there is also a children's menu. The restaurant also serves an American style breakfast that includes Omelets and Pancakes. more