Arkestra (restaurant)

Arkestra
Interactive map of Arkestra
Restaurant information
EstablishedSeptember 2022 (2022-09)
ChefCenk Debensason[1]
Food typeFusion
Rating1 Michelin star (Michelin Guide}
StarStarStar 15,5/20 (Gault Millau)[2]
LocationIstanbul, Turkey
Coordinates41°04′43″N 29°01′53″E / 41.078489°N 29.031467°E / 41.078489; 29.031467
Websitearkestra.com.tr

Arkestra is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Etiler neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. Established in late 2022 by Chef Cenk Debensason and partner Debora İpekel, the establishment is situated in a restored 1960s villa. It is recognized for its "Modern European" cuisine, which integrates classical French techniques with global influences.[1]

History and Design

The restaurant was founded by Cenk Debensason, who trained at the Institut Paul Bocuse, and Debora İpekel, a former music industry executive. The venue is a standalone 1960s residential villa renovated by architect Tayfun Mumcu. The interior design features Art Deco chandeliers and wooden wall paneling, evoking a "relaxed opulence" aesthetic.[3]

The establishment is divided into three distinct areas:[4]

  • Arkestra Restaurant: The main dining area focusing on seasonal tasting and à la carte menus, which also extends to an outdoor courtyard.
  • Ritmo: A casual bistro offering shared plates and cocktails.[5]
  • The Listening Room: An upper-floor audiophile bar featuring high-fidelity sound systems and a curated record collection.[3]

Cuisine

Chef Debensason’s culinary approach utilizes a French technical base for dishes that incorporate diverse cultural influences. Signature dishes include tuna sashimi with sushi rice ice cream and seared sea bass with a Thai-inspired sauce.[1][4] The beverage program includes a selection of niche Turkish varietals and old-world wines.[4]

Recognition

In 2023, Arkestra was awarded one Michelin Star in the 2024 Michelin Guide for Istanbul, an accolade it maintained in the 2025–2026 edition.[1] The restaurant also holds 3 Toques (15.5/20) from Gault & Millau Turkey.[6]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d "Arkestra – Istanbul - a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant". MICHELIN Guide. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
  2. ^ "Arkestra – Gault & Millau Turkey". 24 January 2025. Retrieved 25 July 2025.
  3. ^ a b "Arkestra: The Listening Room & Ritmo Istanbul". Wallpaper*. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
  4. ^ a b c "Arkestra Restaurant Profile". Elite Traveler. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
  5. ^ "Arkestra". Arkestra Official. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
  6. ^ "Arkestra - Gault & Millau". Gault & Millau Turkey. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
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