Cafe Istanbul
Mona · 271 Google reviewsCafe Istanbul — solid, no-fuss middle eastern in Wicker Park. The kind of spot that earns loyalty, not hype. The kitchen isn't playing it safe. "juicy, well-seasoned, & cooked like the chef was aiming for a medal" — M Zaibak [$$, patio]
What 1,378 diners keep saying
What 1,378 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Ordered the Turkish breakfast. Delicious and filling. The food and plating could be a little more refined, but it was tasty.”
“We went there cause I saw some photos and reels on insta. Glad to say that we weren't disappointed. The food is great. We took an outside table and enjoyed the dinner in the porch light and city vibe. The waiter helped us pick our foods as we were new and we are glad that we took his suggestions. Highly recommended ❤️”
“So delicious I recommended for everyone Turkish food really very good!!”
“What a gem! Especially love the outdoor patio. My favorite items were the hummus, grilled octopus, and baklava.”
“Had a wonderful experience here. Service was excellent, delicious food, and a very pleasant atmosphere.”
“This place absolutely delivers. The service was warm and attentive, the food was outstanding, and the dessert alone is worth the visit. Do not skip the Pear Delight. I’m serious. It’s one of those desserts you think about afterward and immediately want again. Order it, thank me later. The meat was seasoned perfectly.. deep, rich flavor, not just salt-forward.. and somehow tasted just as incredible the next day. Leftovers rarely improve; these did. If you know what’s good for you, just go here. Simple as that.”
“A true gastronomic delight! Incredible presentation, exquisite flavors, and attentive service. The restaurant left a lasting impression. I recommend it to anyone who appreciates quality and atmosphere🌟🌟🌟Emir was great! He explained everything so well!”
“Visited Cafe Istanbul and tried a pretty wide range of dishes mashed potatoes, lahmacun, the seafood mixed grill, chef’s mixed grill, and kuzu şiş. Overall, the food was genuinely good. Everything came out flavorful, seasoned, and cooked nicely. The seafood and kuzu şiş especially stood out. The only downside was one specific order I requested well done. It came out medium three different times, even after sending it back twice. Eventually, I had to cancel that item altogether, which was disappointing considering how good the rest of the meal was. Great food, nice menu just wish the kitchen paid a bit more attention to specific cooking requests.”
“Hands down this is the best turkish restaurant in Chicago area I have ever been to. The staff are very friendly and nice and the foods are very decent, delicious, fresh and generous portion. Have been coming here almost once ever frew weeks. Hope they can keep it up and win more business.”
“Café Istanbul is one of those spots I somehow return to every few months without even thinking about it & every time, the food reminds me why. It’s just fire. i got the Chef’s Mixed Grill with a lentil soup, & both were perfect. juicy, well-seasoned, & cooked like the chef was aiming for a medal. the lentil soup hit exactly how it should warm, smooth, comforting. my sister ordered the kuzu şiş well done. it came out medium. Sent it back… came out medium-well. At that point the lamb said “this is the best I can do today.” 😂 But as someone who always eats here, I know the quality is legit. Great menu, great flavors, and you really can’t go wrong with anything you order.”
“Our co worker friend took us here with his family. His wife is Turkish and recommended this spot. Everything was absolutely amazing!!! My favorite was the crepes which were perfectly paired with the jellies that came with everything else. I would come back again and again. The brunch deal is definitely the way to go to have meze for everyone to share. Can’t wait to come back someday!”
“Charming Experience at Istanbul Cafe Istanbul Cafe offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a taste of Turkish cuisine. The service was fantastic, with Amir and Baran standing out as incredibly charming and polite servers. Their attentiveness and warm hospitality truly enhanced our dining experience. Their homemade bread was a highlight—it reminded me of Barbari bread, and I absolutely loved it. However, I wasn’t a fan of their homemade Dough, as the taste was too sour for my liking. As a Turkish restaurant, I was hoping to see some classic Turkish desserts and hot drinks like Saleb or even sugar cubes (قند) to complement the authentic experience. Including these would definitely elevate the menu and make it even more appealing. Overall, Istanbul Cafe is a nice spot with great service from Amir and Baran and some delicious options, but I’d love to see them expand their menu to include more traditional Turkish favorites.”
Sounds like your kind of place?
Star it — your hit list is where dinner decisions get made.
One email a month — new openings, hidden gems, and where locals are actually eating.
More Middle Eastern in Wicker Park & Logan Square
See the ranking →
In the same lane · Middle Eastern, mid-range
If it's packed, walk to…
More good rooms in Wicker Park, minutes away.