My favorite places in Istanbul

Probably the most perfect cafe in Istanbul, watch this to get in the mood: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpK3-2-q8GA

Modern Turkish bistro feels stylish but not snooty.

Best souvenirs in the back from Kagithane House of Paper.

Beautifully-restored museum, gallery, and restaurant. Check out the awesome bathroom sinks!

Ask to see Barack(lava) Obama!

Another nice spot in Karakoy with gorgeous design.

Home of the "We are all made of doner kebab" t-shirts.

Best rooftop bar with low(ish) drink prices and low key atmosphere.

Some of the most reasonable wine prices in town, cozy spot, and surprisingly good food.

Unusual and interesting spot for lunch, enter through the kitchen to dine in or takeaway yummy baked goods.

Solid spot for pizza and wine in gentrifying neighborhood, they have rooms too!

Gorgeous hand-made shoes and boots, good prices especially on sale.

Another fun place for unusual souvenirs and design items actually made in Turkey.

Eat pide here with pastirma and egg and die happy.

Another good wine bar near Taksim among bland hotels. Sit outside for good people-watching.

Great wine, not cheap, but lovely spot. Don't go hungry and poor, other options around for dinner if you want more than bites.

Everyone knows Ciya on the Asian side, but the garden at this wine house is a lesser known spot. Food is not bad, but house wine is why you go.

Pando is getting old, so it might not be around forever. Head there early to grab a seat and eat delicious clotted cream and honey.

New spot near the eagle statue, nice spot for early evening drinks with odd school/ski lodge decor. Good drink snacks.

 

Lunch-only spot in posh Nisantasi, order from the chalkboard menu only what's fresh and seasonal. Always delish limonata.

South African chain with brilliant blue design and serious coffee. Total breath of fresh air in traditional Eminonu.

Try the manti (Turkish ravioli) sampler. Sit outside and people-watch Turks with more money than sense.

A little overpriced, but worth it for the views and perfect salads.

 

Best Starbucks views in the world, right on the Bosphorus.

More gorgeous views, slightly pricey but great food (salads especially). If you aren't drinking alcohol, try the local grape juice. Also love the Nisantasi location.

An Irish pub in Istanbul? But this is tiny and charming and gives you a break from Efes. One of the few pubs my baby is always welcome in.

Expat hangout and good starter point in Cihangir with a little of everything on the menu, Asian-inspired stuff better than average for Turkey.