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A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
A view of Araf restaurant and its cuisine
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19 Mayıs, Istanbul

An intimate chef counter facing the open fire

Araf

Modern Turkish · Chef counter

₺₺₺

19 Mayıs, Sümer St., Sümko N Block No:1 AG/E, Kadıköy

In Kadıköy, Kenan and Pınar Çetinkaya shape seasonal produce, offal and vegetables into small plates over live fire.

Recommended by Defne ArasGastronomy Editor · Istanbul
Defne Aras — Gastronomy Editor

Defne Aras

Gastronomy Editor

Defne’s editorial lens focuses on the connection Istanbul’s cooking builds between past and present. She considers not only the plate, but also ingredient choices, service rhythm, the venue’s relationship with the city and the coherence of the full experience.

Areas of focus

  • Contemporary Turkish cuisine
  • Chef-led restaurants
  • Tasting menus
  • Special-occasion dining

Editorial principles

  • Never separate the plate from its context
  • Pay attention to produce and seasonality
  • Make restrained, reasoned recommendations
Neighbourhoods followed
Karaköy · Beyoğlu · Nişantaşı · Kadıköy
Languages
Turkish · English
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Do you run this restaurant?
Why go

To experience one of the new 2026 MICHELIN Stars just a few steps from the cooking.

In Kadıköy, Kenan and Pınar Çetinkaya shape seasonal produce, offal and vegetables into small plates over live fire.

Order this

Build a shared meal across the season’s offal and vegetable plates.

Our short order keeps the table focused on what this kitchen does best.

Best time

Reserve the counter early and share to taste more of the compact menu.

Timing can change the entire experience; reserve ahead when possible.

Opening hours

This record does not yet have verified weekly hours. Check the official link or call before visiting.

Before you plan
  • ReservationsCall the venue to check table availability and reservation arrangements.
  • AccessibilitySufficient verified detail on step-free entry, lifts and accessible restrooms is not published. Confirm your requirements with the venue before visiting.
In Choose Istanbul guides

Editorial guides that place the restaurant within the right neighbourhood, occasion and pace—not in isolation.

Keep exploring

Choose Istanbul editorial standard
Contact details, location and editorial claims are checked before publication. Sponsored placements are always labelled.
Editorial review: Choose Istanbul Editorial Team
Last checked: 30 Jul 2026
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