concierge secrets: istanbul

December 9th, 2009

ISA

Want to know what and where is hot in Istanbul? Brad Johnson of Modern Luxury checks in with the concierge at Park Hyatt Istanbul–Maçka Palas to find out…

Helene Dubreucq is a concierge at Park Hyatt Istanbul–Maçka Palas, and she is quite possibly the best in the city. She speaks six languages with ease and has the inside track on what’s hip and what’s just posing as such. On a recent visit to the hotel, she saved the day and got us to the airport in world-record time when our original private driver turned out to be a snake oil salesman. The Park Hyatt’s new steakhouse, The Prime, serves the city’s best steak and pours superb, locally sourced wines (who knew?). But when we weren’t eating in the hotel or lounging poolside with a cocktail in hand, Helene totally hooked us up with killer reservations, nightlife suggestions and shopping advice.

So, we’ve come back to Helene to find out what’s on her radar at the moment:

Q: What’s the hottest restaurant in Istanbul right now?
A: Lipsi. It opens only in wintertime, and it’s just a short walk from the hotel. You can enjoy special cocktails made of ”raki” (an anise-flavored local aperitif) in the lounge (red wallpaper, dimly lit, lots of candles). My favorite cocktail is the Rakito. Lipsi has the best mezze in town. The atmosphere is great. Hot, really. (It’s from the same team that owns Topaz, an amazing dinner spot overlooking the Bosporus). The staff makes you feel like you’re at home. The place is designed in a cozy tavern style, and they play live modern Greek and Turkish music on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and Traditional Turkish music on Mondays. On the weekends, you’ll hear the city’s top DJs.

Q: Istanbul is renowned for its leather goods. What’s your favorite shop?
A: We are located in the best neighborhood for shopping. I recommend two leather specialists: Koc, for classical cuts, and Punto, for up-to-date fashion. They are both walking distance to the hotel and offer leather and fur. I like that Punto offers the possibility to create a bespoke handbag to your own specifications. 

Q: I’m looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path nightlife experience. Where would you send me?
A: You should go to the Asmalimescit district, near the Tünel (subway station), at the very end of 2 km long pedestrian-only Istiklal Avenue, about 15 minutes from the hotel by taxi. This neighborhood is full of life. In the daytime, you love it for its shops and designer galleries. But at night, it comes alive with its countless restaurants and bars, and this is where you can listen to great live music.

Q: I’m a hopeless romantic. Where would you send me for the perfect date night in Istanbul?
A: For the perfect date, I would advise Mikla Restaurant, which offers amazing modern Turkish cuisine. It’s perched on the top of the Marmara Pera hotel, and the view of the Golden Horn overlooking the Marmara Sea is breathtaking. 

Q: I want to experience Istanbul’s art scene and see the work of emerging artists. What gallery or museum should be tops on my list?
A: The Istanbul Modern is located next to the water-pipe cafes on the docks, and it’s a must visit. They currently have a very important exhibition of emerging artists. And you can have a great lunch at the museum, with a great view of the Bosporus. Also, Proje 4L/Elgiz is a private collection museum that’s worth a look. For galleries, you should consider X-ist, 44A and Mac Gallery. All promote the brightest new talent, and all are within walking distance from the hotel.

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