Astrid Juklickova

★ 5 4 months ago

Real hidden gem in Istanbul. They have only 8 seats available. We were lucky to be get a table for late lunch. Everything was super delicious, we were so happy for every bite we had. You can feel the love of the chef in every meal he made. The broth that were cooked for 3 days in the firewood oven were so umami, the wagyu beef comes with it were so tasty. We ordered 1 bowl for our son and they gave one extra bowl for us to try. For Japanese food lover, this place is perfect. Our favourite is the dumplings with the chili oil that were cooked for 3 hours in the firewood oven and the wagyu tataki. But do not miss their sushi too. Basically order everything 🤣 The passion fruit mocktail is a must try, very refreshing and delish.

Stanislav Shlentov

★ 5 3 months ago

It was an amazing experience - the food was excellent and delicious. A very authentic place, interior is small but the atmosphere there is so comfy. the way they serve the food is extraordinary, ramen was absolutely worth the visit and I think I’ll visit this place before leaving Istanbul. Dumplings were also delicious to their core. Worth visiting regardless of the occasion

Mustafa Gokcel

★ 5 3 months ago

We had the chance to experience Chef Burcu Önal’s omakase menu at Sini Ethnic, and it was truly one of the most memorable dining experiences we’ve had in Istanbul. The concept is intimate, warm, and inviting — a cozy space where every detail reflects personality and craft. What makes Sini Ethnic exceptional is its fusion of traditional Pan Asian cuisine with Turkish soul. Rather than serving a random mix of Asian dishes, Chef Burcu creates a seamless dialogue between Japanese precision, the aromatic vibrancy of Thai cuisine, the fermented depth of Korean flavors, and the comforting warmth of Anatolian traditions. Each course feels like a conversation between cultures, Asian techniques reimagined through local ingredients and familiar flavors. The menu we had was tailor made based on our favorite ingredients and seasonal products. The flow was thoughtful and dynamic: Sardalya Çiğköfte Nigiri Style – a brilliant, playful starter combining local anchovy boldness with Japanese elegance. Wagyu Tartare Ball with Black Caviar – rich, balanced, and indulgent. Japanese Crab and Corn Nigiri with Clarified Butter – pure flavor harmony; a buttery, nostalgic take on miso corn, elevated with a local touch. Celery, Lobster and Lime Taco – a refreshing cross between Japanese precision and Mexican liveliness, the perfect palate opener. Truffle Ponzu Mackerel Nigiri – deeply umami, clean, and unforgettable. Blue Shrimp Nigiri – another standout, delicately sweet and balanced. Turkish Yağlama with Crab Filling – reinterpreting a traditional Anatolian dish with rice dough and crab; extraordinary texture and flavor. Goat, Kobe, Foie Gras, and Lamb Kebab with Morel Mushroom and Baked Kimchi Pomegranate “Antep” Salad – an explosion of contrasts: smoky, sour, fermented, and earthy. The salad in particular was unlike anything we’ve tasted before. Red Sea Bream with Eggplant, Miso, and Japanese Mustard – a graceful finish that tied everything together. Every dish carried Chef Burcu and Chef İbrahim’s deep knowledge and imagination. You can taste discipline, curiosity, and emotion in each bite; it’s cuisine with soul, backed by mastery. Overall, Sini Ethnic isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a storytelling space where East meets West, ancient meets modern, and comfort meets curiosity. A must visit for anyone who loves intelligent fusion, sincere hospitality, and a truly characteristic dining experience.