Listed In
What to Order
- Cuisine
- Çay Bahçesi & Kafe
- Avg / person
- ~₺80
- Reservation
- Not required
- Rating
- ★4.7 (2,793 reviews)
AI Summary
Kanlıca Çınaraltı is one of the most beloved institutions on the Bosphorus — a traditional waterfront tea garden in the village of Kanlıca on the Asian shore (Beykoz district), sitting directly beside the Kanlıca ferry pier. The reason people come here, above all else, is the Kanlıca yogurt: a thick, tangy, creamy yogurt made locally and served with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It is one of Istanbul's most famous regional food experiences. The tea garden itself operates under the shade of an ancient plane tree (çınar), with Bosphorus views from the terrace. Order a pot of tea, a bowl of yogurt, a piece of börek and watch the tankers and ferries pass. With 26,800+ reviews at 4.2 stars, it remains one of Istanbul's most visited waterfront spots. Prices are extremely reasonable. Easiest to reach by ferry from Eminönü, Beşiktaş or Üsküdar.
Photos
Review Analysis
Sentiment
Iconic Bosphorus tea garden in Kanlıca — 4.2★ / 26,800+ reviews. Famous for thick Kanlıca yogurt with honey, served under a centuries-old plane tree right on the water.
Istanbul's most famous yogurt spot — centuries-old plane tree terrace on the Bosphorus in Kanlıca, serving legendary thick yogurt with honey since generations.
Menu & Prices
Features & Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kanlıca Çınaraltı famous for?
Kanlıca Çınaraltı is famous above all for Kanlıca yogurt — a thick, tangy, locally produced yogurt served with honey and cinnamon. It is one of Istanbul's most iconic regional food experiences. The setting is equally memorable: a centuries-old plane tree (çınar) beside the Bosphorus in Kanlıca village, with views across the strait and ferry boats passing just metres away.
How do I get to Kanlıca Çınaraltı?
The easiest and most enjoyable way is by ferry: Bosphorus excursion ferries from Eminönü stop at Kanlıca pier (about 1.5 hours). Regular passenger ferries also run from Üsküdar to Kanlıca. By car it is about 30–40 minutes from central Istanbul via the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, though parking in the village is limited. The ferry approach is strongly recommended — you arrive at the pier right in front of the tea garden.
What should I order at Kanlıca Çınaraltı?
The signature order is Kanlıca yoğurdu (Kanlıca yogurt) with honey and cinnamon — this is non-negotiable. Pair it with a glass of Turkish çay (tea) or ayran. The börek (cheese or spinach pastry) is also good. The menu is simple and affordable: this is a tea garden, not a restaurant, so keep expectations focused on snacks and yogurt rather than full meals.
Is Kanlıca Çınaraltı worth visiting just for yogurt?
Absolutely. The combination of the Kanlıca yogurt, the Bosphorus terrace under the ancient plane tree, and the ferry journey to reach it makes this one of Istanbul's most complete experiences. It is also genuinely affordable: a bowl of yogurt with tea costs under 100 TL. Many Istanbul visitors rank it among their best food memories, and locals make special trips just for the yogurt.
What are the opening hours and best time to visit?
Kanlıca Çınaraltı is open daily from approximately 08:00 to 22:00 (hours estimated — they vary by season). The best time to visit is late morning or early afternoon on a weekday when it is quieter. On summer weekends and public holidays it can get very busy as Istanbul families arrive by ferry. Autumn (September–October) is particularly beautiful: the leaves change colour and the Bosphorus is still warm.
Where is Kanlıca Çınaraltı located in Istanbul?
Kanlıca Çınaraltı is in the İstanbul neighbourhood of Istanbul, at Kanlıca, Halide Edip Adıvar Cd. No:6, 34810 Beykoz/İstanbul, Türkiye.
What type of food does Kanlıca Çınaraltı serve?
Kanlıca Çınaraltı serves Çay Bahçesi & Kafe cuisine. Known for: Kanlıca Yoğurdu, Türk Çayı, Börek.
How much does it cost to eat at Kanlıca Çınaraltı?
Kanlıca Çınaraltı is budget-friendly (under ₺200/person) Average meal cost is around ₺80 per person.
Does Kanlıca Çınaraltı take reservations?
Walk-ins are welcome at Kanlıca Çınaraltı. For busy evenings, calling ahead is recommended.
Does Kanlıca Çınaraltı have outdoor seating?
Yes, Kanlıca Çınaraltı has a terrace with a sea view. Outdoor seating is available, weather permitting.
What are the most popular dishes at Kanlıca Çınaraltı?
The most popular dishes at Kanlıca Çınaraltı are Kanlıca Yoğurdu, Türk Çayı, Börek, Ayran. Signature dishes include Kanlıca Yoğurdu.
What Visitors Say
10 reviewsRoya M
Google · Jun 2026
I arrived in Istanbul at midnight after a long flight from Australia, and this morning I stumbled upon the most beautiful, cozy café for breakfast. I ordered a traditional Turkish omelette, and it was absolutely delicious—warm, fresh, and full of flavor. The coffee was great too! The staff were so kind and friendly, which made the experience even better. And the view? Just gorgeous. I’m sure I’ll be coming back to try more from their menu!
Abbas Fairouz
Google · Jun 2026
One of the best breakfast restaurants in Istanbul’s Asia side. The food is really delicious. We had a breakfast for 2 persons. They served multiple kind of cheeses, each one of them had a remarkable taste. The atmosphere is really calm. The staff were so nice and friendly. I highly recommend it 👍🏻
Sam Miri
Google · Jun 2026
A cool and friendly atmosphere where you can sit and play board games for hours. The quality of the food was good and acceptable. The behavior of the staff was very friendly and respectful.
ziba akbar
Google · Jun 2026
we had the most amazing time here a few months ago! this is a very affordable but tasty place away from the chaos of istanbul city centre. we came here for breakfast and left in disbelief bc it was easily our favorite experience in türkiye. additionally the service was amazing. the price of all the food pictured was 800 lira or $24 for 2 PEOPLE! very impressed by this place. we will return the next time i come to istanbul!
Kathy Ells
Google · Jun 2026
We stopped in for lunch. The staff was very friendly and the food was delicious! A Fun place to play board games on a rainy day!
Elizabeth Finnemore
Google · Jun 2026
Absolutely beautiful food, never had as nice a breakfast as this one. Congratulations to the owners for such a great place.
Selim Sanje
Google · Jun 2026
I was here for the famous “Kanlıca Yoğurdu” but realized they offer much more. Breakfast looks very good, relaxed place, and a room full of box games !!!! The collection is crazy; i will come back to play :)
Berkman Lord Gülenç
Google · Jun 2026
Brilliant spot for some quick grub and boy such a nice atmosphere. Food is decent with great prices. Staff is very friendly. They have Catan and Expansions so I might be biased.
fatma
Google · Jun 2026
Food is good Service good and they can talk English (very welcoming staff) The prices is low The view is great you will see the sea There is a bus station near the restaurant and this is great
Alexandra Azarova
Google · Jun 2026
Tasty food, rapid service and friendly staff, we had a really good lunch here during our trip up the Bosphorus. The mixed salad was flawlessly fresh, chicken curry and chicken noodles were of hearty portions and very well cooked. Nice views to Kanlica hill and mansions up there. The place to recommend!
Reservation & Directions
Also Listed In
More in İstanbul
See all →Istanbul Guide
Istanbul Seafood Guide
The best fish restaurants, Bosphorus meyhane and what to order by season.
Read the guide →
Tags
Data Quality