Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Istanbul Bay

    4.1 (64 reviews)
    Closed 11:00 am - 12:00 AM (Next day)

    Istanbul Bay Photos

    Business Info

    ISTANBUL BAY ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Istanbul Bay

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    My awesome wrap ! Picture doesn't do it justice
    Jon B.

    I waltzed into This Turkish delight on a non eventful evening craving a good ole Doner wrap. With humble expectations , I ordered it and they actually didn't ask me what wanted on it ( yet I mentioned the yogurt and hot sauce please). Quick and easy the slabs of lamb were sliced off and added to my quite larger than expected wrap with all the fixings . I raced home in anticipation as I finally unwrapped my promising dinner . I was happy and delighted! Hot , fresh, tasty and a generous amount of meat as well! So happy I found The Bay as I officially have a Doner "Go to!"

    Menu 6/5/22
    Thuy H.

    Wow, food is beyond flavorful and truly authentic. Everything tasted so fresh. I had the platter with lamb and rice. I even got to try babaganush for the first time. My gf who had it tons of times elsewhere said this was one of the better ones she's had. She said it definitely tasted authentic. Very friendly staff. As for seating, it's very limited as it's more of a take out spot. However, my gfs and I were able to grab the seats and enjoy our food right on the spot. We did come off peak hours though, so please keep that in mind. I will be back when I make another trip to NY.

    Mix Doner Gyro Wrap
    Vivian Z.

    Fantastic place, super clean facilities and nice friendly staff. Quick service, courteous and caring folks operate Istanbul Bay. We ordered a mixed doner wrap for each of us and fries, it was SO much food. One wrap totally could have been two meals for me but I wasn't about to be weak so I tore through the entire thing in one sitting bc I'm competitive with my athletic trainer SO lol The meat is tender, hot, juicy, and flavorful. Very generous portion of protein in that packed wrap. The veggies were fresh and crisp and I loved the feta cheese. I added probably a whole pint of their yogurt/dill/mint sauce, it was so addicting. And of course the fries were arguably some of the best fries I've ever had at a quick place like this. So perfectly thin and crisp and perfectly salty. They've also got a few options for traditional turkish beverages, my partner got the Ayran since it's similar to a traditional drink he has back home but I opted for some good old coca cola. This place really hit the spot. Wish they got some more business, come out and support them folks!

    Adrienne G.

    Delish falafel wrap alert! Stopped in here on a whim as it was pouring rain and I wanted something how I could take back to my room. The falafels wee small but super dense & after about half way through, I was thinking to myself whoa I'm full..... but somehow I managed to polish off the whole thing. Next time, I'll make sure to order a side of their spicy sauce to see what that's like but the flavor was delish as it was - you can't go wrong with the falafel Freshly made to order, staff was super friendly. Thank you for the perfect, quick & easy takeaway on a cold, rainy day

    Chicken Gyro
    Kyle W.

    I ordered a chicken gyro and French fries. While it was clearly fresh and made-to-order, it seemed like it really lacked any kind of seasoning. The chicken was just kind of bland. Not horrible and certainly edible, but overall that was the one critique me and the other person I was dining with had. The fries were really good and had a great amount - shoe string type.

    Lamb Doner Pita
    Heying D.

    We walked by here and grabbed a quick bite. The meat was so so. We ordered a wrap but were given a sandwich. The bread was too doughy and just overwhelming. Not the best food. I prefer the pizza slices next door!

    Excellent Doner sandwich!
    Numone S.

    The food was very good and plenty. Plus friendly service. Sit in or order to go, but no outlets for charging.

    Chris G.

    If you were in DE at any point, you know how amazing and plentiful döners are. Me and bestie had to check it out. It reminded us of after club days in the Cobblestone streets of Heidelberg. When they showed me their wraps are traditional Turkish (yufka), I decided then to take one wrap to go as I left today. I'm here on this train waiting to get home to devour it. For those unfamiliar with the the spike it's on, they do shave it and cook it to the appropriate temp, so you are never eating undercooked meat. The veggie I got with yesterday's wrap was so fresh, but today. Nothing but meat and sauce. It's gonna be magical! Please don't hesitate, come try it. You won't regret it.

    Lamb Pita
    Brandon N.

    I think this place is criminally underrated: they load you up with one of the best lamb I've ever had (tastes and feels like brisket tbh). Great volume, great price point, and well it's nowhere as good as the Turkish food I had in Germany years ago but it's still very solid and will satisfy you. Their chicken is inconsistent, sometimes it's a hit and the juiciest softest chicken, sometimes it's a little firm and dry.

    Diana A.

    I stopped by for dinner on the go. Place has decent seating. I ordered the Chicken Douner that came with a side of bread. I ordered the large and it was enough to save 1/2 for two meals for me. For desert I ordered this yummy little pastry that was super delicious and comes in two pairs. Food was fresh and delicious highly recommend. Price was worth it.

    Mix doner (chicken + lamb)
    Amy R.

    Istanbul Bay is a casual Turkish & Mediterranean spot at the corner of 42nd and 9th. It is a new and welcomed addition to the neighborhood and an delicious and affordable meal. The restaurant is very small - standing room only with a couple of bar stools. The menu offers an array of salads, apps, salad, rice plates and sandwiches and wraps. The guys behind the counter are friendly and passionate about their food. I ordered the doner (lamb gyro plate), mix doner (lamb+chicken gyro plate), and a side of falafel (not on the menu). The plates come with bread, rice, and salad. They kindly threw in a container of what I think is keskul (milk pudding with almonds + pistachio) for me to try. The plates were generously portioned. I think we got more meat than we did rice! Definitely had to split it into 2 meals. The thin slices of meat were moist, tasty and flavorful. Salt level was balanced. Salad was refreshing, though a bit heavy on the parsley for my taste. I could do without the bread. Istanbul Bay's falafel is solid - crispy on the outside, soft and flavor-packed on the inside. They are on the larger size too. A side order of these guys isn't on the menu, but you can just ask. The keskul was the perfect dessert. Great smooth texture, delicate milk flavor and lightly sweetened. It's not listed on their menu but you can grab it from the drink case. I'm excited that Istanbul Bay has opened up, especially when many businesses here have closed during the pandemic. I look forward to many future meals from here.

    The lamb gyro at Istanbul Bay,

    See all

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Elsa B.
    0
    292
    0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lily S.
    306
    496
    1185

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Diana A.
    101
    141
    214

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kin S.
    47
    25
    2

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tee L.
    0
    29
    28

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Doc V.
    2
    62
    96

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Yuki J.
    156
    21
    38

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Had chicken plate. Excellent flavor and tender. Salad was simple and dressing was exceptional. Easily worth more than five stars.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of W C.
    25
    9
    0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Matt B.
    108
    11
    3

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Can I.
    10
    1111
    12

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Istanbul Bay Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Istanbul Bay

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Mediterranean 31,686 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    NAR Restaurant NYC

    NAR Restaurant NYC

    4.6
    (89 reviews)
    1.4 mi
    Locally owned & operated
    Outdoor seating

    Wow, I am bummed that I waited so long to come to NAR. I was talking to a Turkish friend at work…read moreawhile back and he recommended I try this place as we were discussing Turkish restaurants. I added to my list but didn't try it until this week and I was blown away! The restaurant is lovely and has a great vibe (although it is a little loud due to the low ceilings). Service was great reflecting exceptional Turkish hospitality. My friends and I started with small mezzes (all delicious) and zucchini blossoms, which I could have had as a standalone meal. I had the Turkish delight meat dish and that was super. My husband had the beyti and it was the best I've ever had. We all ate way too much and waddled out of there way too full. Prices are about what you'd expect in that part of town and it's worth every penny. I will definitely be back. I recommend that you go here too and am confident you'll find everything is cok guzel!

    As a Yelp Elite reviewer, I always love discovering spots with great aesthetics and high culinary…read morepotential, but service can completely make or break an experience. Unfortunately, this breakfast missed the mark in several major areas. The Good: Vibe & Food Atmosphere: The decor is genuinely lovely, and the overall vibe of the space is warm and inviting. The Menu: The food itself has a wonderful foundation, especially leaning into authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavor profiles. The spread of rice with cheese, Turkish pie with cheese and apricots, and jam offered a nice balance of sweet and savory. The hummus and tahini were fresh, and I appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of quality elements like olives that tied the meal together. The Bad: Service & Professionalism Unprofessional Staff Conflict: This was the most shocking part of the visit. During the middle of service, our waiter literally got into an argument with someone on the floor. Witnessing a staff member, Zayneb arguing mid-service is deeply unprofessional and completely kills a relaxing breakfast atmosphere. Abrupt Clear-Clearing: They removed a cheese plate from our table without any warning, explanation, or check-in. While clearing plates is normal, doing it silently without asking if we were finished felt dismissive and rude. Inattentive Hydration: Water service was completely neglected throughout the meal. Instead of keeping glasses filled, they finally brought water around just five minutes before the bill was dropped--which felt more like an afterthought than hospitality. While the food and decor are nice, basic professionalism and attentive service are non-negotiable. I hope management addresses these major hospitality hiccups, but I won't be rushing back anytime soon. While the food was great, I was disappointed by the constant pressure from the staff to order breakfast items, which felt disjointed from the advertised Restaurant Week experience. It made the service feel a bit pushy and distracted from the actual menu. I would have much preferred them to focus on the offerings specifically curated for the event

    Photos
    Nar Restaurant
    Nar Restaurant
    NAR Restaurant NYC
    NAR Restaurant NYC

    See all

    ABA Turkish Restaurant

    ABA Turkish Restaurant

    4.1
    (671 reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$$

    Been to this place a couple of times and had great experiences. One nice perk is that you can earn…read morepoints through Opentable and redeem them for credit toward restaurant experiences, credit toward OpenTable reservations, or Amazon gift cards. You don't need to download an app, just sign up for an Opentable account at www.opentable.com. The place was exactly what we were looking for... Inexpensive, Turkish, and comfortable atmosphere! The place wasn't busy during lunch time but busy during dinner time. Amazing service and delicious food! The food was fresh and came out fast. Lunch specials are $21.95 for 2 courses while dinner specials are $36.95 for 4 courses. I had the Eggplant with Tomato Sauce and Beets as the first course and Lamb Adana Kebab as Entrée. Lamb Adana Kebab comes with salad, which I can't have since it's cold and raw, but they were able to accommodate me and replaced salad with more rice. I had Kabak Tatlısı, which has a nice sweet taste and is healthy. All were delicious, also gluten free, dairy free and soy free. Plus, the Turkish Tea as the fourth course was a great pair with my meals. Their menu offers a variety of choices, including options that are gluten free, dairy free, and soy free. I would definitely come back and suggest you give this place a try if you are in Hell's Kitchen or Columbus Circle.

    Great mid-town spot for Turkish food. The staff is great and the food is generally above average…read more It's got that great NYC shabby/chic vibe. Well worth checking out.

    Photos
    ABA Turkish Restaurant
    Grape leaves (appetizer)
    Grape leaves (appetizer)
    Turkish Tea

    See all

    Turkish Tea
    Turkish Kitchen

    Turkish Kitchen

    3.8
    (637 reviews)
    1.3 mi
    $$$

    Turkish Kitchen is my neighborhood mainstay, I can't even count how many times I've been over the…read moreyears. The birthday coupons are what had brought me in every year, but even though they stopped during Covid, I still enjoy visiting. My go-to dish is the Iskender Kebab - delicious slices of lamb with tomato sauce and yogurt over baked pita bread. I also enjoy the combination platter with dips - the baba ghanoush is delicious. The atmosphere is classy but down-to-earth. The cocktails are tasty. The service can be slow, but it means we are never rushed out. The prices are mid-high, but commensurate with the quality of food. I recently came with a large group, including kids. Service was welcoming despite the chaos. Our bread was frequently replenished and our bottles of wine poured. On top of that, we were given tastes of dessert & liqueur - such a nice treat at the end of a long meal. I especially appreciated that the head guy alerted us that gratuity was already added to the check. We had such a great time, that we opted to tip more! I was happy that my group had such a positive experience, and surely will continue to return.

    A group of my friends were in town, and we happened to pick this place just by walking down the…read morestreet in the area until we saw something that looked tasty. We could not have been happier with what we got for a place that we picked totally randomly. First of all, the place is popular and we did not have resos, but the staff were super nice and found us an open table that we could eat at as long as we put in our orders quick so they could get the table ready for a later reservation in an hour. Then the food itself arrived and was really delicious and well presented, just look at those kebab plates and dips! They also gave our group free baklava at the end I think just because they felt a little bad they had to rush us, which wasn't even their fault and was super appreciated. Also, the interior decoration is fantastic. The restaurant feels super classy and elegant. Great vibes for a date, a business dinner, or just a fancy dinner. Overall, easy 5 stars. Great food and amazing service. Oh and the wine was delicious too.

    Photos
    Turkish Kitchen
    Turkish Kitchen
    Turkish Kitchen

    See all

    Istanbul Bay - mediterranean - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...