This charming former bank has plenty going for it, including its central location near the Galata Bridge and ferry hub. Its relaxing interiors and quiet, comfortable rooms in neutral tones make it the perfect retreat in this lively city. A generous breakfast buffet heaves with simit, yogurt, fruit, honey, olives and cheese, or order a cooked dish, such menemen – eggs scrambled with tomato sauce and peppers. The Bank rooftop bar is prized for its view of the Bosphorus and city, which can be enjoyed with a cocktail or raki, making it a hotspot for locals. There are similar views in the serene Serica restaurant, where the menu has been informed by food historian Özge Samancı to reflect the flavours of the Silk Road. Try the manti (tiny dumplings), pumpkin pide and rice with saffron, bergamot and coriander, and Turkey’s traditional chicken breast pudding – a thick milk dessert (the shredded chicken is indetectable) served with burnt milk ice cream.
