A signature dish that shows the kitchen's creativity — the orange sauce cuts through the richness of the bass and adds color to the plate. Reviewers note it's one of the most unusual fish preparations in the neighborhood.
Tips from diners
This is the signature dish — order it for a taste of the kitchen's approach.
White beans stewed with vegetables, herbs, and a touch of olive oil in the Armenian style.
Tips from diners
One of the few hearty vegetable dishes on the menu.
Meat ragout cooked with almonds, dried fruit, and warm spices — a dish reflecting Ottoman influences.
Tips from diners
A sweet and savory dish that pairs beautifully with wine.
A classic Ottoman dish — the name means 'the sultan liked it.' The eggplant should be smooth and creamy, the lamb tender enough to cut with a fork. At Mahkeme, they prepare both elements with care.
Tips from diners
A romantic dish served on a quiet evening — the historic setting and food make it special.
Tender octopus charred on the grill, finished with olive oil and lemon.
Tips from diners
Book ahead for weekend evenings — this is a popular destination for special occasions.
Located on historic Galata Mahkemesi Street next to the old Genoese court house and medieval prison, Mahkeme Lokantası serves as a workers' restaurant by day and transforms into a meyhane by evening. The kitchen offers traditional Turkish dishes and regional specialties with unique preparations like portakal soslu levrek (orange-sauced sea bass) and Mutancana ragout with dried fruit.
The location is loaded with Ottoman history — it sits next to the old Genoese court house and medieval prison.
This restaurant operates as a workers' canteen at lunch (12-4 PM) and a meyhane at night (6 PM+). Two completely different experiences.
There's outdoor seating in the courtyard — request a table there if available, especially in good weather.
Come at 8 PM or later for the meyhane atmosphere — earlier feels like a workers' spot.
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