Sumahan - on the Water

Second time having dinner here. Beautiful setting on the banks of the Bosphorus on the Asian side with views down to the first Bosphorus bridge and beyond to the Old City. Both times have arrived in time for sunset. Food excellent and service good. Will be going again.

My mother and I had the pleasure of staying at this magnificent hotel in March 2023. A dear friend from Istanbul recommended the place to us for the outstanding quality of personal service and the breathtaking location right on the shore of the Bosphorus. The hotel exceeded our expectations by far. Because the Sumahan is a boutique hotel, interactions with the staff were much more intimate and personable than a large hotel complex could offer. We experienced a distinctly warm, familiar, and home-like feeling—yet with the professional distance and bespoke care of a top luxury hotel. We even had the honor and fortune of meeting the owners, who fully represent the hotel's kindness and hospitality and who took the time to explain to us how they managed to convert a house under monumental protection into this architectural piece of art. The interior design is an example of the love that went into designing this hotel. The attention to detail is incredible. And, of course, the hotel also offers excellent food, catering to both a continental and a traditional Turkish taste. Furthermore, the hotel offers a gym with all the necessary equipment and a spa. We had a wonderful stay here and look forward to the next time—excellent recommendation for everyone who wants to experience Turkish hospitality at its best. Çok teşekkürler!

Had a wonderful family dinner there. Food was top-notch (by both local and international standards) - fresh local ingredients, excellent execution. Service was impeccable - our waiter Sinan was attentive but not intrusive; his recommendations were spot-on. Breathtaking views of the Bosphorus without the noise and the crowds. Easy valet parking if you’re driving in. For the premium dining experience on offer, the prices are very fair (and would compare incredibly favourably vs similar places in London, NY etc). Would recommend to locals and visitors alike, will definitely go back again.

When I first came in there were nice workers inside. We came at dinnertime so we needed reservations but we did not know about that. We had just came from Ankara and we heard this place was great so they let us sit upstairs to try their famous food Sufle. They were very nice. I bet their hotels are also nice. If you come to Istanbul this place a must to go. You need to visit here.

Incredible service, amazing views, excellent food, quiet room, comfy bed, the most relaxing escape from the city. The way sultans experienced the Bosphorus (plus fast wi-fi :-)). You will not be disappointed.

Have a cocktail and/or dinner from the patio of Sumahan, which is directly on the Bosphorus, with amazing sunset views. It’s an easy trip by taxi (or boat) from the tourist center on the European side, and fun to visit a beautiful neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul.

We loved this quiet, elegant boutique hotel on the Asian side. The service was exceptional, the view - right on the Bosporus - cannot be beat. The food - including breakfasts - was very good, and there are several excellent restaurants in easy walking distance. We also loved sitting in the Library, just off the lobby. And when the weather permitted, we sat outside to eat or have a drink. Be prepared to pay a lot to be transported to the “other” side - or hire guides who can organize your transportation for you, or figure out how to use the public transit.

One of the most exquisite hotels I have ever seen. Every detail is thoughtfully arranged with attention to both design and comfort. Located right on the Bosporus with easy transit to popular sites. Definitely eat at the hotel, talk with the people, and learn its history.

What a joy it was to stay bay Sumahan…the views across and along the Bosphorus are stunning,the rooms minimalists yet cozy. I could have spent days just sitting reading all the books on the shelves and sipping a cocktail watching the cargo ships navigate the strait. The staff is kind,helpful…their kitchen serves great food!!!!! I can not say enough good things about Sumahan…special big thanks to Nederet and her candid warmth,you made my stay even more memorable by sharing Sumahan’s story and gifting me a perspective of Istanbul and Turkey that I would have not ever been able to attain anywhere else…I’ve read Cornucopia from start to finish and can’t wait to receive my next issue! (I subscribed as soon as I realized how special the magazine is! Big hugs from Mexico! Ana