Where to find an authentic restaurant or scenic cafe in Istanbul (away from touristy shopping areas)?

Some cafes in Istanbul are self-service buffet-style, where you serve yourself from a spread — this is a common practice, not unusual.

There are restaurants with gorgeous Bosphorus views, but they can be noisy. Quieter spots cost above average but are worth it for a coffee. Head past Bebek on the European side, or past Üsküdar toward Beykoz. Local guides sometimes take visitors to small hilltop spots with stunning Bosphorus views and their own restaurant.

Near the Paraiso area there's a large market and a pharmacy, but the better option is the hotel's own cafe — the food there is richer and tastier, and it's specifically recommended.

On the shopping street opposite the Trump Towers complex there are a few small cafes worth checking out.

There's a spot with a couple of cafes people mainly visit for photos against a flower backdrop — for an actual meal it's better to go elsewhere, as prices there aren't cheap.