Hamdi Restaurant was founded by Hamdi Arpacı, who came to Istanbul from Urfa in the 1960’s and opened up a small stand next to the Spice Bazaar where he began to cook and sell kebabs with the flavors of home. His kebabs become so popular so quickly that Hamdi Arapcı soon moved into a larger space and opened a restaurant.

This is the story of Hamdi Restaurant’s founding and it is still at its first address: next to the Spice Bazaar and with a truly splendid view of the Historical Peninsula, the Galata Bridge and the Golden Horn.

With one of the most popular kebabs in Istanbul, it also has a clean dining space with smiling staff and quick service. It is a very popular restaurant with locals and foreigners alike, so if you plan to dine here (and particularly if you plan to eat on the terrace) it is advisable to make reservations in advance. Other than kebabs, Hamdi offers chicken and fish dishes, cold mezes and desserts. Its içli köfte, lahmacun, kebab with pistachio, katmer and baklava are especially worth trying.