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Call: (773) 661-9487
About us
Mustafa Guler
Owner/ ChefIn the heart of Chicago, there's a charming place known as the Istanbul Cafe, owned and run by Mustafa Guler. With more than 15 years of culinary experience in Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya, he brings the flavours of Turkey to the Windy City. Istanbul Cafe shines as his second Turkish restaurant in the city.
For over six years, Chicago residents have flocked to Istanbul Cafe for delicious, authentic Turkish cuisine. From mouthwatering kebabs to flavorful mezze, each dish is a testament to Mustafa's culinary expertise.
What set Istanbul Café apart was not just its special wines, homemade baklava, or Mustafa's culinary expertise, but a secret treasure hidden within its menu - the "Cagh Kebab." This special dish is from Turkey's Erzurum region, and you won't find it anywhere else in the city. The "Cagh Kebab" became more than just a menu item; it became a symbol of Istanbul Cafe's commitment to authenticity and excellence.
Behind it all, the dedicated team adds heart to the flavour. From the talented chefs to the friendly servers, they ensure every visit to Istanbul Café is special. Here, we serve you not just with food but with passion! Come and savour Turkey's essence in the heart of Chicago!
Mustafa Guler
Owner/ ChefIn the heart of Chicago, there's a charming place known as the Istanbul Cafe, owned and run by Mustafa Guler. With more than 15 years of culinary experience in Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya, he brings the flavours of Turkey to the Windy City. Istanbul Cafe shines as his second Turkish restaurant in the city.
For over six years, Chicago residents have flocked to Istanbul Cafe for delicious, authentic Turkish cuisine. From mouthwatering kebabs to flavorful mezze, each dish is a testament to Mustafa's culinary expertise.
What set Istanbul Café apart was not just its special wines, homemade baklava, or Mustafa's culinary expertise, but a secret treasure hidden within its menu - the "Cagh Kebab." This special dish is from Turkey's Erzurum region, and you won't find it anywhere else in the city. The "Cagh Kebab" became more than just a menu item; it became a symbol of Istanbul Cafe's commitment to authenticity and excellence.
Behind it all, the dedicated team adds heart to the flavour. From the talented chefs to the friendly servers, they ensure every visit to Istanbul Café is special. Here, we serve you not just with food but with passion! Come and savour Turkey's essence in the heart of Chicago!
Customers reviews
We've been going to this place for a couple of years, hands down this is the best Turkish restaurant you'll be able to find in the city centre area. The open kitchen allowed us to smell the kebabs and observe the kitchen brigade execute the dishes.
JENNY P
From google
I had a fantastic anniversary dinner here with some of the best food I have ever consumed. It was quite pricey (100 dollars for two people including an appetizer and dessert), but definitely worth the money. Can't recommend this place more for delicious food and great service.
Edwin Shipp
GOOGLE
Unplanned Saturday night dinner at Cafe Istanbul. Luckily they were able to seat us without reservations. The food was amazing as always. The portions are plentiful and everything just tasted great. Can’t wait to go back again.
Wook Kim
From google
Buzzing wee joint, great atmosphere. Really nice menu, and everything was really delicious. Especially the scallops. And the short rib was melt in the mouth soft. Big portions! And to top it off they brought a special birthday dessert with a candle for my friend who was turning 83 that day!
Hannah Muirhead
