Darüzziyafe is actually the banqueting hall built by Sinan on orders of the sultan in preparation for the 100-year anniversary of the conquest of the city. There are three large dining rooms plus an ornamental courtyard shaded in centuries-old trees. The kitchen serves an endless menu of traditional and regional dishes, including those that extended into the four corners of the empire, from the Balkan soup, to the Üzbek pilaf. The menu also features a daunting array of boiled, braized, and pickled vegetables. No alcohol.

One of several well respected kebaberies in Istanbul, this one also serves up its own local kebab specialty. A staff of 15 works to make the kebabs. If you wish to sit at a table at the window sill or in the garden, reservation is required. The restaurant is on the waterfront, not far from the airport, and has space for over 1,000 guests.