Elif Castle Street

You'll find Elif tucked on Castle Street, where the city's older money meets newer energy. It's the kind of place where locals actually eat rather than just Instagram—no faffing about with foam or spheres, just honest Turkish cooking done right. The mezze spreads are generous, the lamb is tender, and they know their way around a charcoal grill. It gets properly busy, especially weekends, which tells you everything you need to know.