A Slice of Naples in the Heart of Karaköy

If you’re walking through Karaköy and craving something timeless—warm bread, slow-crafted dough, and the kind of Italian comfort that feels both familiar and special—welcome to Paps Italian. Opened in January 2015 in Karaköy’s historic French Passage, Paps Italian has been shaped under the guidance of Neapolitan chef Luigi Mariconda, bringing a true Italian spirit to one of Istanbul’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

We’re often asked what makes our food feel “different.” The simplest answer is: we don’t rush what should take time. From dough to sauce to the final plating, everything is built on traditional techniques and honest ingredients.

The Soul of Our Kitchen: Sourdough and Tradition

At Paps Italian, our pizzas and breads are made with sourdough—crafted with a long-standing tradition and a deep respect for fermentation. That slow process gives the crust character: airy, fragrant, and balanced. It’s not just about taste; it’s about texture, aroma, and the way a great slice should feel in your hands.

Our approach continues beyond pizza. You’ll also find homemade pasta and classic Italian desserts like tiramisu, plus a kitchen that celebrates Naples-inspired sauces and techniques—served alongside carefully selected meats and seafood.

Ingredients That Tell a Story

We’re proud of what goes into every plate:

• Distinct cheeses, including Kars Gravyer brought from Kars
• Burrata made from buffalo milk
• 36-month aged Parmigiano
• A menu supported by a thoughtful selection of boutique wines and cocktails

It’s a mix of Italian tradition and Istanbul’s ability to embrace global flavors—without losing authenticity.

Two Locations, Two Experiences

In January 2019, Paps Italian expanded to a second location in Emaar Square Mall, bringing our experience to Istanbul’s Anatolian side. Each branch has its own rhythm:

• Karaköy offers a more intimate, “drop-in” style experience—easy to visit, welcoming, and effortlessly stylish.
• Emaar provides more capacity and a reservation-friendly setting—ideal for celebrations, gatherings, and special evenings.

What to Start With

A good Italian meal often begins with small plates that set the tone. Our Antipasti selection includes favorites like:

• Cozze Marinate (mussels marinated with white wine and lemon)
• Caprese with fresh mozzarella and bright, clean flavors
• Carpaccio di Manzo con Tartufo Aioli
• Polpo alla Griglia (grilled octopus)
• Burrata Pomodori Secchi (burrata with sun-dried tomatoes)

These are designed to be shared—because great Italian meals are rarely meant to be eaten alone.

For Everyone Searching for Italian in Istanbul

People discover us in different ways—some wander in, some reserve, some come back weekly. And yes, many find us while searching online for phrases like:
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If that’s you—whether you’re here for pizza, pasta, or the full Italian experience—we’ll be happy to host you.