Ramadan is a sacred month that symbolizes patience, sharing and unity. During this period, iftar, the evening meal to break the fast, holds a special place in the lives of Muslims. For visitors in Istanbul, experiencing iftar in the city’s historic center with a carefully prepared menu is an unforgettable part of Ramadan.
Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant, located in Sultanahmet just a few minutes from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, offers a special Ramadan menu that brings together traditional Turkish dishes and specialties from Ottoman palace cuisine in a unique atmosphere.
Deraliye’s décor reflects traditional Ottoman culture, and its warm, peaceful ambience makes it an ideal setting for an iftar meal with family and friends. Even for those who are not fasting, joining a traditional iftar at the right restaurant becomes a memorable experience and a flavorful introduction to Ramadan traditions.
The special Ramadan menu is rich yet balanced, designed so that guests can enjoy multiple courses without feeling overwhelmed, while still appreciating the depth of Ottoman flavors.
The meal begins with classic iftar starters that gently break the fast and prepare the palate:
The starters are accompanied by a daily compote or a compote made from seasonal fruits, offering a refreshing and light drink after a day of fasting.
The soup course features Cherry Tarhana Soup, a fruit-based soup with yoghurt and spices flavored with sour cherries. It combines the comfort of tarhana with the distinctive sweetness and tartness of fruit, reflecting the Ottomans’ love of surprising blends.
The cold mezes highlight different textures and spice profiles:
The hot starter on the menu is Honey Gemici Böreği, a fried pastry prepared with mixed Turkish cheeses wrapped in thin phyllo. It is served with honey on top, creating a playful combination of savory and sweet.
Guests can choose from several main courses that represent the richness of Ottoman-style cooking:
For dessert, the menu offers Katmer, a Turkish sweet made with thin baklava pastry layers filled with plenty of green pistachios, ice cream, clotted cream and butter. It is a rich and satisfying finish worthy of an imperial table.
The iftar concludes with tea, coffee or a soft drink or Ottoman sherbet, allowing guests to end the meal in a relaxed way while enjoying the atmosphere of Sultanahmet.
Deraliye Restaurant welcomes guests who wish to experience a traditional Ramadan iftar in an authentic setting. With its location on the Historical Peninsula, carefully crafted menu and attentive service, Deraliye turns the evening meal into a celebration of history, flavor and togetherness.