Sarnic restaurant (Cistern Tavern): "Pleasantly cool in summer" Istanbul Restaurant Tip by angelochka

Restaurant is located inside old roman cistern dating 1500 years ago, but was used until recently as car repair workshop. Some turkish automobile association which converted houses in the street onto guest houses (Ayasofia pansion) cleaned out the cistern, restored it and transformed into "Roman Tavern". They say the main room (restaurant) is preserved exactly as it was.
Being at depth of 7 metres it's really nice to relax and have meal inside when it's too hot outside. A lot of things made from wrought iron, but it doesnt make the whole interiot feel heavy, and candles light create i quite a romantic atmosphere:)
this place is not cheap at all (you have to pay for hystorical surrounding!), but the food is average, nothing special. in Istanbul there are many places where you pay just few dollars for excellent home food

Address: Sugukcesme Sikagi
Comparison: more expensive than average
Directions: Sultanahmet, near Topkapi walls, beside Aya Sofia
Phone: (212) 512 4291
Price: US$31-40
Rating: 3
Theme: Local