Rüya, a contemporary culinary concept that presents Anatolian cuisine through a modern lens, brings its global experience from Dubai, Cannes and Riyadh back to its roots. Opening its doors along the Bosphorus at Çırağan Palace Kempinski, Rüya Istanbul blends modern presentations and textures with the rich culinary heritage of Anatolia, offering an experience that lingers both on the palate and in memory.
A Culinary Journey Aligned with the Elegance of Çırağan Palace
Located within the hotel section of Çırağan Palace Kempinski, an iconic landmark with a 17th-century heritage and an unparalleled position on the Bosphorus, Rüya Istanbul offers a sophisticated gastronomic journey shaped by fresh, modern interpretations of Anatolian classics. Each dish celebrates Anatolia’s diverse culinary traditions with passion and craftsmanship, reflecting the warmth of sharing and the richness of gathering around welcoming tables.
Inside the venue, the Bosphorus-facing bar offers a stylish setting for signature cocktails and refined bites crafted by expert mixologists.
A Concept Created by Umut Özkanca, Brought to Life at Çırağan Palace Kempinski by Ralph Radtke
The venue, opened through the hotel’s investment, is the result of more than a year of meticulous work by Ralph Radtke, General Manager of Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul & Regional Director of Kempinski Residences Türkiye, and Umut Özkanca, creator of the Rüya brand and Vice Chairman of Doğuş Hospitality & Retail Group.
Ralph Radtke stated: ‘We have long been seeking the right partner to further enrich the distinguished culinary offering of Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul. With full confidence in the strong positioning Rüya Istanbul will bring to our hotel section, we have committed to this project through a dedicated investment. As one of the global ambassadors of Turkish hospitality, we are certain that bringing the diverse authentic flavors of Anatolia in modern elegance into a palatial setting on the Bosphorus will establish a new dining experience venue for a broad range of audiences and generations.’
Internationally acclaimed Rüya now returns to where its story began. Commenting on the brand’s arrival in Istanbul, Umut Özkanca said: ‘Some hotels become synonymous with certain cities. In Istanbul, the strongest embodiment of that connection is Çırağan Palace Kempinski. This was precisely the starting point of the story. Rüya’s journey began on Anatolian soil. Now, we are reconnecting with this origin by taking our place in one of the city’s most iconic addresses.’
Honoring the Past Through Today’s Lens
Inspired by traditional recipes, the restaurant’s menu reinterprets Anatolian flavors using seasonal ingredients and contemporary techniques. With a focus on sharing plates, the menu highlights the warmth of communal dining and the richness of tasting together. Signature dishes such as the 24-hour slow-cooked beef rib and mushroom ‘keşkek’ pay homage to Anatolian culinary heritage with refined presentations, telling timeless stories through a modern perspective.
One of Rüya’s iconic flavors, ‘Simit Caviar’, stands out with its bold aroma, quickly becoming a guest favorite. The two-cheese Black Sea pide, fermented for three days and baked in a wood oven is served with sous-vide egg, creating a uniquely balanced flavor profile. Seafood dishes draw character from innovative techniques. Marinated sea bass, prepared with thinly sliced sea bass, uses a crudo-inspired, curing approach and is paired with an apple-mustard dressing to create a layered tasting experience.
Among the dessert offerings, the ‘Chocolate & Turkish Coffee’ stands out with its sophisticated combination of a salted-caramel dark chocolate sphere, cardamom accents and Turkish-coffee ice cream. It offers a contemporary twist on beloved classics.
The bar menu draws inspiration from Türkiye’s seven regions. Iconic local flavors such as cardamom, rose, pomegranate, honey, spices, citrus and mint take center stage in signature cocktails, offering both visual and sensory delight. Drinks like ‘Nazar Sour’ and ‘Anatolian Fizz’ reflect the aromatic identities of their regions and demonstrate that Rüya tells stories not only through its cuisine but also at the bar.
The City’s New Meeting Point
Rüya Istanbul is more than just a restaurant; it offers a lifestyle shaped around exceptional food and an iconic location. In addition to the dining experience, the bar area, enhanced with signature cocktails, live rhythms, DJ performances and contemporary touches aims to become one of the city’s new social hubs.
