Asmalı Cavit

★ 4.6 · 1,133 reviews Istanbul Opened Opening date unknown

Directions

A meyhane the way they used to be

Asmalı Cavit is the meyhane most people name when they want to explain what the old Beyoğlu taverns were like. Run by Cavit Saatçı, it is a plain room hung with photographs where the meze come around on a tray, the fish is whatever is good that day, and the rakı keeps flowing.

There is no reinvention here and that is the point. It stays packed and loud most nights, and booking is close to mandatory.

Good to know

Book ahead; the meze tray is the way to order.

What guests say

Reviews by Google

Graham Dickson 2 reviews 5 July 2026

Excellent food and service, we went for evening meal and the next day for a quick lunch. Great selection of fresh mezes and grilled meats to follow. Staff were brilliant and a lovely busy atmosphere in the evening.
Victoria Schneider 49 reviews · Local Guide 29 March 2026

Amazing food, super friendly staff, and great atmosphere. We loved it!
ali kurshat altinsoy 84 reviews · Local Guide 3 September 2025

Asmali Cavit - arguably one of the city's most internationally well-known dining spots now. this super-authentic hidden-away restaurant serves delicious mezze and kebab main courses. the mezze plates are great, so be careful not to fill up before the meat dishes - a classic problem across town.
Aimee Duffy 41 reviews · Local Guide 4 June 2025

An absolutely amazing experience. The staff were above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable, waiter brought us all the small plates they had to offer and helped us order. Locals eating here too were super helpful, encouraging us to try different dishes - so friendly. The food itself was delicious. Great great great appetizers. The mashed fava beans were amazing, as was the chard. Must come!
C W 64 reviews · Local Guide 6 May 2025

A great place for local food fare. Best book in advance. Can much recommend the seaweed salad. All dishes we had were fantastic. Highlight was the grilled anchovies