Turkey is one stunning place, and anyone who has visited will vouch for it. With stunning sights to soak in, delectable cuisine, picturesque streets and hammams that relax you to the core, there’s nothing the place doesn’t have, including some delectable Turkish coffee! So, when Parul Gulati, CEO and Founder, Nish Hair, and actor and influencer, was in the country, we got her to share some exclusive images from her travel, along with the best restaurants in Turkey dine at in case you visit the place! Text by Anushka Goel, pictures courtesy Parul Gulati
You may have seen her in several web series and shows and may have remembered her for her big, expressive eyes and acting prowess. However, actress and influencer Parul Gulati recently forayed into entrepreneurship as the CEO and Founder of Nish Hair, a one-stop-shop for hair accessories, extensions and more.
With travel slowly opening up for across the globe, countries have been relaxing rules for international passengers. Parul made the most of this opportunity with a visit to Turkey, and shared some stunning snaps from her travels on her social media. So, we asked her to share some exclusives with Travel + Leisure India and South Asia, along with some cafe recommendations in Turkey, so that you can indulge in delectable cuisine in case you plan to visit, and capture some stunning pictures of the food (and yourself!) in the process!
Parul Gulati’s guide to the best restaurants in Turkey
Pierre Loti Hill Cafe, Istanbul
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Enjoy stunning views and even better cuisine at this cafe in Turkey. Sip on some freshly made Turkish Coffee as you soak in the picturesque surroundings (and click away to glory!) and enjoy a scrumptious meal here!
Street Cafe, Karakoy

The commercial hub in Istanbul is home to some picturesque cafes, including the famous Street Cafe. Apart from stunning pictures, the place makes for a delectable meal that will leave you wanting more, and is one of the places Parul Gulati visited on her Turkey trip!
Ranchero, Istanbul
The best part about Turkey is that it has something for everyone. So, in case you find yourself craving Mexican food, you can head to Ranchero and enjoy a variety of Mexican delights such as rolls, tacos, burrito bowls and more!
Street food at Kiremit Street, Balat
No visit is complete without a street food trail, whether it be in India or abroad. And Parul’s recommendations include indulging in street food in Balat, wherein she also enjoyed cups of coffee and servings of pastas at the local cafes there!
Karakoy Lokantasi, Istanbul
If you want to indulge in some traditional Ottoman cuisine, then Parul recommends Karakoy Lokantasi in Turkey, which is among the best restaurants for a variety of borek, breads and desserts for you to indulge in.
Fat Boys, Cappadocia
Another of the cafe recommendations that Parul shares is Fat Boys in Cappadocia, which serves up delectable, healthy meals to satisfy all cravings that you didn’t know you had!
Cuma Cafe, Istanbul
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Another picturesque cafe in Turkey, Cuma is a place you need to visit for their delectable breakfast offerings, salad bowls and more.
Akali Cafe, Istanbul
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Akali serves up some of the cheesiest, messiest and yummiest burgers in town, and if you’re in search of a meal that’s tasty and heavy, you must visit the restaurant. Oh, and do pair the meal with a side of salty, savoury fries!
Dem Karakoy, Istanbul
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Desserts make everything better, so if you’re tired or just in need for a pick me up, Parul recommends Dem Karakoy, one of the best restaurants in Turkey that serves up delectable sweet treats and coffee for you to satiate all your cravings!
Related: Here’s What A Road Trip Through The History Of Turkey Looks Like