Zeffirino Restaurant, Istanbul, Turkey

Zeffirino Restaurant in Istanbul

12 June 2026

Architecture: SAVATLI Architects

Location: Istanbul, Western Turkey

Photos: SAVATLI Architects

ZEFFIRINO is a contemporary restaurant project designed by SAVATLI Architects in Istanbul, shaped by a refined balance of architectural rhythm, nostalgic references, and spatial transparency. Defined by dark wooden ceiling grids, serene mint green surfaces, and carefully selected material transitions, the space creates a calm yet striking gastronomic environment that integrates proportion, atmosphere, and the unique view of the Bosphorus.

The project reinterprets the classic Italian dining experience through a highly nuanced spatial language where architecture, furniture, and materiality work together as a unified composition. Rather than relying on decorative excess, the design emphasizes restraint, textural richness, and a carefully orchestrated indoor-outdoor relationship.

At the center of the space, a pergola-inspired wooden ceiling structure establishes a strong architectural identity while filtering sunlight to create dynamic plays of shadow that shift throughout the day. Mirrors and black-and-white vintage photographs integrated into walls with classic wood paneling (boiserie) details not only reinforce the space’s memory and sense of belonging but also maximize visual depth by reflecting the endlessness of the Bosphorus into the interior.

Materiality has played a central role in shaping Zeffirino’s atmosphere. Rattan-woven Thonet-style chairs, textural wooden details on the sculptural bar unit, the crispness of white tablecloths, and the warm-toned terrazzo flooring were meticulously brought together to create sensory continuity throughout the interior. Vibrant climbing plants wrapping around the structural columns introduce softness and fluidity within the orderly geometry of the architecture, further strengthening the dialogue with nature.

Spatial flow was treated as a fundamental architectural principle throughout the project. From the wide, airy spaces facing the open sea to the more intimate corners surrounding the bar, every area was designed to contribute to an integrated architectural language while maintaining its distinct identity. Carefully integrated wall sconces, elegant table lamps, tactile surfaces, and tonal transitions support an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and deeply rooted.

Furthermore, the project prioritizes craftsmanship and bespoke detailing as essential components of contemporary gastronomic spaces. Every junction, material transition, and custom design element—such as the rattan-clad bar—was specifically developed for the spatial narrative, resulting in a space defined by precision, atmosphere, and material consistency.
Ultimately, ZEFFIRINO reflects a core philosophy of SAVATLI Architects: to create unforgettable environments shaped by spatial harmony, sculptural restraint, and a refined material sensibility adapted to contemporary living.

Zeffirino Restaurant in Istanbul, Turkey – Building Information

Architecture & Design: SAVATLI Architects – https://www.instagram.com/savatliarchitects/

Project name: Zeffirino Istanbul
Architecture firm: SAVATLI Architects
Principal architect: Sami Savatlı
Project location: Ortakö, Istanbul Turkey
Built area: 800 sqm
Site area: 800 sqm
Photography: Sinan Çırak
Visualization: SAVATLI Architects
Tools used:
Design team: Sami Savatlı, Kübra Oyuktaş, Nazm1ye Cordan
Collaborators: Ironi Lighting
Interior design: SAVATLI Arch1tects
Design year: 2024/ TBC
Completion year: 2025
Landscape: Savaş Taşkın
Civil engineer: SK Mühendislik
Structural engineer: SK Mühendislik
Environmental & MEP engineering: SK Mühendislik
Light1ng: NOX Lighting
Construction: TBC
Supervision: SAVATLI Architects / TBC
Materials: Dark timber detailing, walnut wall panels, pergola-inspired wooden ceiling
elements, sage green wall surfaces, brass accents, brass wall sconces, terrazzo floor1ng, white
glazed tiles, mirrors, patterned upholstery, woven textures, rattan cha1rs, greenery and planted elements.
Budget Confident1al / Not disclosed
Client: G1raud1 Group, Monte Carlo
Status: Built
Typology: Hospital1ty / Restaurant / Italian Restaurant