Ferdane, Beyoglu

The narrow entrance leading downstairs to the cellar level gives little away. Once through the low doorway though, you could be a million miles from Taksim Square, as you find yourself in a smart, Mediterranean-style bar, complete with exposed red brick and wood interiors. Opened a few years back, it didn't take long for word to get out, and consequently the place gets pretty packed. The canned blues and jazz makes a nice change from rock—a popular choice for many Istanbul bars.