Refik: clear, inviting interior dining space

Refik: clear, inviting interior atmosphere

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Refik

★ 4.1 · 256 reviews Istanbul Opened Opening date unknown

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An old-guard intellectuals' meyhane

Refik is one of the oldest meyhanes in Asmalımescit, for years the tavern of choice for writers, journalists and the political left who filled its cramped tables. The meze list leans toward Black Sea dishes, a nod to its origins, alongside the usual rakı spread.

The room is small, plain and heavy with history, and it keeps the unhurried mood of an older Beyoğlu. It is more about the atmosphere and the regulars than any single dish.

What guests say

Reviews by Google

Abraham D 246 reviews · Local Guide 23 June 2024

***** We had an amazing dining experience at Refika Restaurant in Taksim! The Mixed Meat Platter was absolutely divine – the meat was incredibly soft, juicy, and full of flavor. The Cheddar Croquet was another highlight, with its perfect chewy texture and delicious taste. We also enjoyed the Butter Prawns and Fried Calamari, which were both cooked to perfection. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, accommodating around 20-25 guests, and the staff, though their English is limited, were friendly and attentive. Highly recommend for a delightful meal in Taksim!
Monster Jr 14 reviews 28 April 2024

Love this place the food is great and owner are nice. We came back 2nd time in the same 10 days trip. If you are craving for fish after many meat kabab, this is the place to go.
Sebastian Pleus 6 reviews 13 December 2023

Very welcoming atmosphere with amazing and freshly prepared food! We feasted and recommend the place already for his wide variety of entries. Turkey at it’s finest!
Tatiana Olinic 5 reviews · Local Guide 26 May 2023

Good restaurant with fair prices! This is the best restaurant in the area! Pathy, the cat who comes to the restaurant when is hungry, is very nice and is loved here!
Anna Seredina 2 reviews 6 May 2023

A cozy restaurant with excellent Turkish cuisine and good wines. The appetizers that we chose before the main course deserve special attention. These appetizers are traditionally offered to all guests of the restaurant. Everything was delicious! And yes - the cat is already the "calling card" of this restaurant! :-)) We also liked the service and the very hospitable owner - a young man who was very attentive to us all evening! Thanks a lot!