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Istanbul

Europe

Türkiye

# Nostra Casa – Authentic Italian Restaurant in Istanbul
Nostra Casa is a charming Italian restaurant located in the heart of Istanbul, Türkiye. Known for its authentic Italian cuisine and breathtaking views, this establishment has garnered attention for its warm hospitality and unique dining experience. Founded by a passionate chef with a rich history in Italy, Nostra Casa offers a cozy atmosphere where guests can enjoy freshly prepared dishes while soaking in the stunning cityscape. Despite recent challenges, the restaurant has left a lasting impression on visitors, who rave about the delightful meals and the friendly ambiance created by the owner and his adorable cats.

## History
### The story of Nostra Casa
Nostra Casa was born from a vision to bring authentic Italian flavors to Istanbul. The founder, having spent over sixteen years living in Italy, sought to create a space that reflects the warmth and richness of Italian dining. His passion for food and storytelling has made Nostra Casa not just a restaurant, but a culinary experience that resonates with guests.

### Milestones and growth
- Established by a well-traveled chef passionate about Italian cuisine.
- Gained popularity for its unique dining experience and breathtaking views.
- Developed a loyal customer base, with many visitors returning for the ambiance and food.
- Faced challenges in recent times, including temporary closure in March 2024.

### Cultural and local influence
Nostra Casa has significantly contributed to the local culinary scene by introducing authentic Italian dishes to Istanbul. Its unique approach to dining, which combines great food with storytelling, has attracted both locals and tourists. The restaurant has become a cultural hub where guests can experience the fusion of Italian and Turkish hospitality, enhancing the community's appreciation for diverse culinary traditions.

### Continuing the tradition
Despite recent setbacks, the spirit of Nostra Casa continues to thrive. The owner remains committed to providing an exceptional dining experience, focusing on quality ingredients and personalized service. The restaurant's legacy is one of warmth, flavor, and community, ensuring that it remains a beloved spot for those seeking a taste of Italy in Istanbul.

## Community
### Community involvement
Nostra Casa actively engages with the local community by hosting events and gatherings that celebrate Italian culture and cuisine. The restaurant often collaborates with local artisans and suppliers, emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses. This involvement fosters a sense of belonging and connection among patrons, making Nostra Casa a cherished part of the neighborhood.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Nostra Casa as more than just a restaurant; it is a gathering place where friendships are formed over shared meals. Many locals appreciate the owner’s dedication to creating a welcoming atmosphere, and the restaurant is often recommended for its unique charm and exceptional food. The presence of friendly cats adds to the homey feel, making it a favorite among both residents and visitors.

### Events and gatherings
Nostra Casa hosts various events, including wine tastings and Italian cooking classes, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the culinary arts. These events not only promote Italian culture but also strengthen community ties, as locals come together to enjoy good food and great company. The restaurant’s terrace is often the venue for sunset dinners, providing a picturesque backdrop for memorable gatherings.

## Offerings
### What Nostra Casa offers
Nostra Casa specializes in authentic Italian cuisine, featuring a menu that highlights traditional dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant prides itself on its personalized service, with the owner often engaging with guests to share stories and recommendations. The dining experience is designed to be relaxed and enjoyable, encouraging patrons to savor their meals and the beautiful surroundings.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Nostra Casa is characterized by its intimate setting and stunning views. Guests can enjoy a range of dishes, from classic pasta to innovative interpretations of Italian favorites. The owner’s passion for cooking shines through in every dish, with many visitors praising the depth of flavor and authenticity. The restaurant's unique location allows diners to enjoy their meals while taking in the breathtaking sights of Istanbul.

### Events and packages
Nostra Casa offers various dining packages for special occasions, including romantic dinners and group celebrations. These packages often include a selection of appetizers, main courses, and desserts, allowing guests to experience a full range of flavors. The restaurant is also available for private events, providing a unique venue for gatherings that require a personal touch.

### Facilities and features
- Cozy dining area with a small bar
- Outdoor terrace with stunning city views
- Engaging and friendly atmosphere
- Personalized service from the owner
- Unique culinary experiences through cooking classes and tastings

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Nostra Casa highlight a mix of experiences, showcasing both the restaurant's strengths and areas for improvement. Many guests express their delight in the food and the owner's hospitality, while some mention challenges related to accessibility and wait times.

### Compliments and strengths
- Exceptional food quality and authentic flavors
- Friendly and engaging service from the owner
- Beautiful views from the terrace
- Unique dining experience with a personal touch
- Positive atmosphere enhanced by the presence of cats

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Some reviews note that the restaurant can be challenging to find due to its location and lack of signage. Additionally, guests should be prepared for a leisurely dining experience, as meals may take longer to prepare. However, many agree that the wait is worth it for the quality of food and service provided.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Nostra Casa is highly regarded for its authentic Italian cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. While there are some logistical challenges, the restaurant's strengths in food quality and customer service make it a memorable dining destination in Istanbul. Visitors often leave with a sense of satisfaction and a desire to return.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Nostra Casa is situated in Küçük Ayasofya Mh., Mustafa Paşa Sok. No:42, İstanbul, 34122, a vibrant neighborhood known for its rich history and cultural significance. The restaurant's location offers easy access to nearby attractions, including the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Visitors can explore the charming streets filled with shops and cafes, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal after a day of sightseeing. The area is known for its welcoming atmosphere, and Nostra Casa fits seamlessly into the local fabric, providing a delightful culinary experience amidst the historical backdrop of Istanbul.

## FAQs
**Is Nostra Casa open for lunch and dinner** Yes, Nostra Casa serves both lunch and dinner, offering a variety of Italian dishes.

**Do I need a reservation** While not always required, making a reservation is recommended, especially during peak hours.

**Are there vegetarian options available** Yes, Nostra Casa offers a selection of vegetarian dishes on its menu.

**Is the restaurant kid-friendly** Yes, the restaurant welcomes families and offers a comfortable environment for children.

**Can I host an event at Nostra Casa** Yes, Nostra Casa is available for private events and celebrations.

## Visit Nostra Casa Today
Nostra Casa invites you to experience authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. With its rich history, community involvement, and exceptional dining offerings, this restaurant has become a beloved destination in Istanbul. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views while savoring delicious meals crafted with care. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Nostra Casa promises a memorable culinary journey that will leave you wanting to return.

5810214c-a5d6-4405-bd2c-5358630aa050

Closed in March of 2024. Walked a long way and nothing left of the place. Probably permanently closed

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Don't be fooled by the entrance or the dark steep stairwell! The food is fresh, authentic, and amazing and the owner is incredibly friendly. I suggest sitting at the very top of the building and enjoying the views!! Oh and the cats are so cute and friendly :)

36b4dec8-927a-45ed-9133-a467a4ba2145

This is easily the best restaurant in Istanbul. Similar to other reviewers, I was also getting tired of eating Turkish food. We'd been in the country for 5 months at a geology field camp and had been eating essentially different variations of the same meal every single day. Don't get me started on breakfast. I can appreciate Turkish food, I can, but coming here made the whole trip worth it. This is probably the only meal I would ever consider an actual experience. We casually walk into the owner's house, up past the third floor where the kitchen is, and then into the fourth floor where the main seating area is. If you don't like cats I wouldn't bother coming, because they are the waitstaff and are very happy to greet you immediately. We sit down and cool off before he informs us that the terrace is shaded and that we should go up there before we start placing our orders. Amazing view with fantastic breezes to cool you off. He begins telling you about his life, his trips through Italy, everything that's going on in Turkey, how life has changed and even showed us his amazing meteorite once he learned we were geologists. Anyways, we ordered a squash/zucchini dish, and he returned with a green bean and something I couldn't even begin to describe. Everything had such wonderful depths of flavor. I ended up ordering the Spaghetti Bolognese and my girlfriend got the Alfredo (asked to be Americanized with chicken in it). I'm not joking when I tell you that these were the most filling and satisfying dishes we'd had over the last month. So much flavor and they really energized us when we finally got done with them. You've heard that people have had tears from having such good food, or being deprived for so long of something they love, well that was exactly us. I never knew that olive oil could taste so amazing. If we do come back to Turkey at some point, no matter where in the country we go, I will absolutely be making a stop by here again. Without a doubt. Thank you very much for the amazing time and amazing food

f496daa5-2b8b-4bc0-b7d8-21412da4055a

The food was great I loved the service .. there is only one guy (the owner) The view and the location was really nice.. but you have to take the stares to the top

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Great meal watching sunset, we drank wonderful wine, were treated to amazing appetizers. Everything fresh. Highly recommend!

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Before I get started. If you're in a hurry and just want to eat and run and are not a fan of dining in a relaxed comfortable atmosphere and chatting with the Chef/Owner and hearing stories about his life while he personally walks out amazing courses of expertly prepared authentic Italian cuisine - The this place is not for you. If you are not a fan of cats, or are allergic to our feline friends then keep on walking. If you easily get frustrated trying to locate hard to find addresses and don't mind the adventure and satisfaction of finally finding this gem of a restaurant then just head down to Burger King. Now for me, Nostra Casa is more than just great food it also provided an amazing memorable experience that we will never forgot. We arrived in the late afternoon (evening) around 4:30 for dinner. We had a 2:00 AM wake up call and the thought of eating at a regular hour just did not appeal. Our hotel had suggested we check out Nostra Casa as they had heard some good things from other guests. And after a serious hunt trying to find the place we finally were guided in the right direction by a business that was located nearby. The main dining room is located on the 4th floor. The room main room (inside) is small with only a few tables and a small bar. There is an outdoor terrace that on a clear and sunny day provides spectacular views of the city. But unfortunately for us, we arrived on a cloudy drizzly day and sat inside. But still, were treated to our favorite meal during our stay in Turkey. The Chef/Owner is well traveled and spent sixteen plus years living in Italy. He's passionate about food and wine and it showed. From the beginning he took the time to explain his creations while sharing stories of his world adventures. With every course brought out to our table, a new story while tasting some of the best and succulent food ever. In the end we felt like part of his family and were sad to leave. But I do get the feeling that one day we will make a return visit to Istanbul and make Nostra Casa our very first stop.

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Sometimes restaurant experiences are very special. Sometimes they are beyond exceptional. Then there is the rare transcendent. A moment in time you will never forget. This is a place where dreams are made. I could share every little detail, but let's just say just go there and let Turgay do what he does best, be awesome. You will be grateful that you did

2302074f-c393-48e8-aca8-f099dbde53ba

O M G!!! I was tired of eating Turkish food ... i googled this gem. The owner was so sweet and kind and made everything himself.... definitely recommend it. It was delicious!!!!!!!!!!!

9cd83605-a63a-40ec-8062-6143f15a7453

I must recommend this restaurant to anyone who either lives or is visiting Turkey. The view is absolutely breathtaking and although the food may take a while it is definitely worth the wait. Not only that the restaurant owner/chef was very kind and welcoming. The cats are very cute as well. If you are passing through it is simply a must eat and must see.

1396955f-4ce4-48bc-bb82-4f27509c05e5

We went to Nostra Casa for lunch on yelp recommendations, at first the entrance looks weird because there are not much signs but we entered anyway. We are happy with this choice! It was really nice. Beautiful view, tasty food and a great service.

Discover Nostra Casa in Istanbul's historic Sultanahmet district. Savor authentic Turkish cuisine in a charming setting. Book your unforgettable dining experience now.

Nostra Casa Restaurant in Istanbul - Authentic Turkish Cuisine

Istanbul Province

Nostra Casa

Experience the rich flavors of Turkey at Nostra Casa in Istanbul. Enjoy traditional dishes in a charming setting near Sultanahmet. Book your table now!

Nostra Casa Restaurant in Istanbul - Authentic Turkish Cuisine & Cozy Atmosphere

Learn about Nostra Casa in Istanbul, a beloved restaurant serving authentic Turkish dishes in a warm, welcoming environment. Discover our story and menu today!

About Nostra Casa, Istanbul - Your Favorite Turkish Dining Spot

Opening hours for Nostra Casa, Istanbul. Find opening hours for Nostra Casa, Istanbul on Küçük Ayasofya Mh., Mustafa Paşa Sok. No:42.

Nostra Casa Menu Overview

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