Welcome to Istanbul Cuisine
At Istanbul Cuisine, we bring the vibrant flavors of Turkey to Bellevue, WA, offering a delightful escape into the heart of Mediterranean gastronomy. Our passion for authentic recipes shines through in dishes like the savory Lamb Pide and comforting Gozleme, crafted with locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques. We believe in creating memorable dining experiences, whether you choose to savor our meals in our casual outdoor seating or opt for takeout or delivery. As a proud women-owned establishment, we are committed to making our space welcoming for all food lovers, including those seeking vegan and vegetarian options. Join us in celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Turkey!
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405 Bellevue Way NE Bellevue, WA 98004 United States Hotline: (425) 455-2101
If you're seeking an authentic taste of Turkey right in the heart of Bellevue, Washington, look no further than Istanbul Cuisine. Nestled conveniently at 405 Bellevue Way NE, this cozy, women-owned establishment is a delightful fusion of Turkish and Mediterranean culinary traditions. With its casual ambiance and moderate noise level, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back meal—be it lunch with friends, a family outing, or a quick bite in between shopping excursions.
Istanbul Cuisine is not just about good food; it’s about a holistic dining experience. With options for outdoor seating and accessibility features for everyone, including those with mobility challenges, it ensures that all guests can enjoy delicious meals together. Plus, you can choose to dine in, takeout, or even have your meal delivered, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Among the standout offerings here, the Gozleme takes center stage. This hand-crafted Turkish flatbread comes stuffed with various fillings, including beef, spinach, potato, and cheese. Many regulars rave about the Super Mix Gozleme, which combines marinated ground beef, spinach, and potatoes—a savory delight that makes it hard to order anything else! Each bite of the pastry is accented with a special sauce that adds depth and a tantalizing kick to the overall flavor.
Pide is another essential element of the menu. This Turkish flatbread resembles a pizza and is filled with aromatic ingredients that capture the essence of Turkish cuisine. The Lamb Pide is a notable favorite, where succulent lamb is paired with a deliciously soft crust that is both comforting and flavorful. The carefully balanced spices create a unique and satisfying experience for any palate.
- Cig Kofte: A must-try appetizer, this pounded wheat creation mixed with hearty spices creates a refreshing and savory starter.
- Grape Leaves: These stuffed grape leaves, filled with rice and cranberries, make for a delightful accompaniment to any main dish.
- Cheesy Kunefe: And don’t forget to indulge in dessert! This traditional Turkish sweet, with its gooey center and crispy golden threads, is an experience in itself.
Regular patrons will tell you about the outstanding customer service as well. The friendly staff is always keen to guide newcomers through the menu, making your first experience as comforting as possible. Customer reviews highlight a genuine atmosphere that invites you back time and time again.
With its rich offerings and dedication to quality, Istanbul Cuisine stands out as a hidden gem in the crowded dining scene. The combination of authentic flavors, inviting service, and the casual vibe makes it a perfect escape. Skip the chain restaurants and treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary adventure at Istanbul Cuisine. Your taste buds will thank you!
Hidden Gem, very authentic and a great little spot for lunch. Can't find any place like this in the area. They just did a little renovation so I'm hoping the new look will help them be more noticeable. Skip the chain restaurants in the mall and go here!
I can't believe I haven't reviewed this place yet! They don't have gluten-free options, so I can't speak from personal experience--but my mom, husband, kids, and literally everyone who's ever come over to my house loves their food. The smell alone is so tempting that I've considered risking it, but my allergies say absolutely not. I just wish they had gluten-free options so I could join in! I DoorDash from them 3-4 times a month, so yeah... they're that good. According to my family, everything is amazing. Oh, except the dolma--I did try that one, and it was just okay. So maybe skip that. But otherwise, go ahead and order. You might just end up as hooked as my family!
Like sometimes you just want a good savory pastry, that's filled with deliciousness with a little middle eastern/eastern European flavors, AND it's best when you grab a bunch to share, this my friends is the place. I actually love pides but to my surprise these were a little different (not in a bad way at all) but the dough is a thinner dough that is baked to order and filled with so much goodness. We ordered the Potato Gozleme 5/5 the Super Mix Gozleme 5/5 and Pepperoni Pide 5/5 and all of them were so yummy I would say hands down get the super mix as it has a little of everything and is so delicious!
Oh. My. Gawd. Their pide is to die for. It's by the mall entrance and hard to miss. They are so friendly and answered questions I had, as there were dishes (like pide) that I'd never tried before. I thought I'd get one slice but nope got a whole pie! My husband was like not interested,but after one bite ate half because it's just that good!
My absolute favorite stopover for a quick bite when I am in Bellevue square and want a quick lunch. We have ordered both potato and spinach Gozleme and they are both super delicious but potato filling is my absolute favorite. It reminds me of the bhaji in "Pav bhaji" -- an Indian street food that is smushed veggie gravy with a strong potato base and spices.They might look thin but they fill you pretty fast. The fillings are so flavorful. Have also tried their Cig kofte and loved it as well. Be prepared for a wait during peak times -- it can go as long as 20 minutes. Food is made to order but if you have time to spare or want to eat some spectacular Turkish food then I'd say it's worth it.
Tiny takeout window connected to Bellevue Square next to the downstairs macys entrance. They offer a handful of items on the menu. My favorite is probably the Lamb Pide. It takes a while for the food to be ready but I don't mind since it's always hot and fresh. I can't resist every time I'm at the mall.
My go to lunch treat! It's easily accessible through the mall (Macy's ground floor entrance). The mom & daughter duo are great team. It's outside so be aware on a cold windy day. There are tables outside though! It's fun watching them make it, I've introduced this place to many coworkers and friends. The flavor is 10/10 though it's pretty pricey for what it is. Although it doesn't seem big, it'll stuff you up!
Istanbul Cuisine in Bellevue, Washington is a true gem for those seeking a taste of authentic Turkish flavors. The Lamb Pide is a standout dish that combines perfectly seasoned ground lamb with a soft, pillowy crust. The blend of spices and herbs creates a delightful symphony of flavors that's both savory and aromatic. It's a unique twist on pizza and a must-try for anyone looking to explore Turkish cuisine. As for the Cheesy Kunefe, it's a sweet delight that's impossible to resist. This dessert boasts a luscious, gooey center surrounded by crispy, golden threads of pastry, all soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. The combination of textures and the rich, cheesy filling make it an indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. In summary, Istanbul Cuisine in Bellevue offers a delightful journey through Turkish cuisine. The Lamb Pide and Cheesy Kunefe are just two examples of their culinary excellence. Whether you're a fan of savory or sweet dishes, this restaurant is a must-visit for a taste of Turkey right in Washington.