Arkestra

Arkestra is probably the most talked-about place in Istanbul at the moment.

Opened in Etiler about two months ago, Arkestra has built a magnificent kitchen. Its creative menu, in which you'll feel a range of influences, is very accomplished.

It was one of the best meals we've had in a long time.

Of what we tried, the chicken with bottarga, the steak au poivre, the beef cheek croquettes and the ceviche were all high-level. The cocktails and the service are as good as the kitchen.

If you can get a table, be ready to pay a high bill by Istanbul standards — but set against the quality of what you eat, you could even call it reasonable by world standards.

With cooking this good, it would be no surprise if Arkestra wins a Michelin star in the next round.