Kitchen Istanbul

Review summary

1. M

   Mary

   San Francisco

   6 reviews

   3.0

   6 reviews

   Dined 1 day ago

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 3
   3. Service 4
   4. Ambience 2

   A good meal, but at a price point that's a little hard to understand. The seating was closer to other diners than one would like, and despite having a reservation two of the three table options we were given were in inconvenient spots. There is limited space in the restaurant, but in any case the configuration did not make for a great experience. Once all the tables are occupied, the noise level gets rather high. The wine list is excellent, and we received thoughtful guidance on the wines by the glass. We had appetizers and entrees, and they were fine. I just didn't feel like any of the food was really special. For almost $100 a person (which included tip), there are many better places in San Francisco. The service was conscientious, and may have been the best part of the experience. Lastly, I should mention that the restaurant requires a credit card for a reservation -- and has a 24-hour cancellation policy, otherwise charging $50 per person. There's also a 15-minute limit on the reservation hold. Again, all this is just a bit much. I know there are challenges to running a restaurant in a costly city, but in sum these policies detract from a sense of welcomeness.
   

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2. C

   Christina

   San Francisco

   18 reviews

   5.0

   18 reviews

   Dined 5 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   A neighborhood gem! Food is consistently delightful and always beautifully plated. Service is top notch. Standouts were the Muhammara dip with warm pita bread, octopus salad, lamb chops and the Kunefe dessert. On our shortlist of SF faves.
   

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3. T

   Tyler

   Austin

   1 review

   5.0

   1 review

   Dined 5 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   A staple of San Francisco! Emrah’s hospitality and kindness is like no other. The Muhammara, Shrimp, and Adana Lamb were the highlights for food while the extensive wine list compliments any dish from the kitchen. We felt like we were dining at our friends or families home. If you’re looking for a true neighborhood gem or to nerd out about wine, Kitchen Istanbul is a must!
   

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4. A

   Aaron

   San Francisco

   4 reviews

   5.0

   4 reviews

   Dined 7 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Amazing food! Rustic but elevated. Supreme flavor. Excellent textures. Perfect seasoning. Chef’s kiss
   

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5. G

   Gabriel

   San Francisco

   3 reviews

   vip
   5.0

   3 reviews

   Dined 7 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   This is one of our favorite restaurants in the city. Great food, fantastic atmosphere and portion sizes are just perfect. Wine selection is the best one in the city - this is coming from the person who had a vineyard in the backyard. Kitchen Istanbul is like a hidden gem in the entire city.
   

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6. J

   Jacob

   San Francisco

   6 reviews

   5.0

   6 reviews

   Dined on 14 November 2024

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   The intimate vibe at kitchen Istanbul is one of the best in San Francisco.
   

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7. J

   Jane

   San Francisco

   14 reviews

   vip
   5.0

   14 reviews

   Dined on 11 November 2024

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Scrumptious food!! The appetizers! Those delicious kebabs!! Branzino! The moussaka! The rice pudding! The wine and wine list (& wine club) !! The service! The staff! We love Kitchen Istanbul!
   

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8. S

   Stefanie

   Los Angeles

   2 reviews

   5.0

   2 reviews

   Dined on 10 November 2024

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 4
   4. Ambience 4

   A great locals spot with an amazing wine selection. Everything on the menu is excellent and you’re sure to always have a great meal and experience whenever you come.
   

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9. D

   Diana

   Central Coast

   49 reviews

   vip
   5.0

   49 reviews

   Dined on 10 November 2024

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Lovely neighborhood spot. We walked by when the restaurant was close. It didn't matter as were immediately attracted to the welcoming ambience. We booked a reservation for the following week. The service was welcoming, knowledgeable and authentic. The food - OMG - everything was incredible. The wine topped off an amazing meal. We're looking forward to returning.
   

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10. A

    Ana

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on 8 November 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5

    Exceptional experience overall - highly recommend this restaurant.
    

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