Istanbul
Sofia
Taj Mahal
€
€€€
(
4A Nergis Sokak, Tunel, Beyoglu, +90
212 293 6600
) This unlicensed Indian restaurant has a
surprisingly comprehensive menu, including dahls to
please every crowd. It’s also located close to Sishane
metro station for an easy trip home.
Asitane
€€
€€
(
6
Kariye Camii Sokak, Edirnekapi, +90 212 534 8414
) It turns
out, the Ottoman sultans knew a few things about fine
dining, and so does Asitane – which replicates the 16th-
century delicacies. Expect almond soup and lamb stew
with apricots, and a fantastic range of vegetarian options.
Nina Jazz & Blues & Rock ‘n’ Roll Club Bar
(
3rd floor,
114 Istiklal Caddesi, Galatasaray, Beyoglu
) This newly
opened all-purpose club-cum-venue hosts regular live
acts of all musical styles, open-mic jam nights and vinyl-
only DJ nights. Be aware it gets very busy at weekends.
Curiously sited away from the main tourist drag, the
TourismMinistry gift shop
, is actually a good place to
get handmade carpets, textiles, ceramics, jewellery and
other crafts from all over Turkey.
ges.gov.tr
david o’byrne
Hadjidraganovite Kashti
€
€€€
(
75 Kozloduy +359 293
1 3148
) For cheap, well-executed Mediterranean cuisine
and attentive service, this is the place to go. Its crowning
glory, however, is the fun atmosphere. Be ready for the
waiters to take to the stage at any given moment.
Sage
Bistro
€€
€€
(
63 Stefan Stambolov Street, +359 2992
7140
) This bustling Bistritsa restaurant is owned by two
brothers who serve their guests Italian-style grub under a
strict motto: scrumptious food, quality wine and superior
service. Let’s just say it’s a slogan that works.
Raketa Rakia Bar
(
15-17 Yanko Sakazov Street, +359
2444 6111
) The walls of this quirky restaurant – covered
with communist memorabilia – aren’t the only thing
worth checking out. The drinks list has over 50 varieties
of the brandy-like Bulgarian drink
rakia
.
Behind a green door at 18 Denkoglu Street, hides
Hot Spot Books & Art
(
+359 886 520 410
), an English
language library with more than 9,000 titles.
jack palfrey
Find our full
guides on
easyJet.com/
guides
If peckish, grab some hot
chestnuts from one of
Istanbul’s many street wagons
Sofia was recently
ranked Europe’s most
affordable capital
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