There are not many vegan restaurants in Istanbul, but the number is increasing every single day with new restaurants popping up all over the city, making it hard to keep up with. I have been living in Istanbul as a vegan for quite a while and have learned so much about food and cooking here. Here are my three favorite vegan restaurants in Istanbul that every vegan should absolutely try once. Prepare to get hungry!
Community Kitchen
Community Kitchen is situated near Şişhane Metro Station and can be reached from Istiklal Street. The lovely owner Oya prepares amazing Turkish vegan dishes and has a big heart for cats. Her specialty is Seitan (made from gluten), which she has been perfecting for years, she uses it in many of her dishes ranging from vegan İskender to Döner, both are amazing! Additionally, she is hosting an open vegan buffet every Friday from 19:00. For 25 TL, you get to stuff your stomach as much as you can and have desserts on top!
For the last few weeks she has added a vegan brunch, every Sunday from 14:00 you can indulge in her delicious food. In case you can’t get enough of her food, she offers cooking classes as well. She takes you to the bazaar where you can buy the freshest ingredients to cook together. It is an amazing experience and you can take all the food home.
Address: Kumbaracı Yokuşu No: 57/ A Beyoğlu, 34425 Istanbul
Mahatma Café
Mahatma Café is a lovely little vegan café and restaurant in Kadıköy. The homemade Turkish food is delicious and they also offer mouth-watering cakes and super tasty teas. They have a spicy soup called the Mahatma soup, that is a must try. The owner speaks good English and is very accommodating. The place is also open to cats who have their own little food and water bowls at the entrance.
Adress: Rasimpaşa mah. Prof. Dr. Macit Erbudak Sok. No: 50/A -Kadıköy, Istanbul
Po Juicery
Po Juicery is a brand new juice bar in Moda on the Anatolian side. It offers fresh juices, raw desserts, smoothies and smoothie bowls. I had two amazing smoothie bowls, which were served with granola and they were decorated beautifully with coconut flakes and pieces of fresh fruits. The chocolate and mango smoothie bowl is a must have. Inside the shop, there is a glass fridge full of salads, fruits and veggies which looks absolutely beautiful and displays the vitality of the food they serve. Check it out for a smoothie bowl when you are in Moda and maybe stop by the Mahatma Café, it is quite close.
Adress: Caferağa Mahallesi, Ağabey Sk. D:No: 44/A, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul
All photos courtesy of the author.
