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Every foodie knows that you should take to the streets if you want authentic local eats! Join the Istanbul food lovers club and explore the city’s must-try delicacies and foodie-friendly vacation districts.
The Best Eats Are From the Streets
For those who don’t know, Istanbul might appear as just another thriving city covered with the noise of numerous cultures. However, those with a keen eye and palate, particularly Istanbul food lovers, will recognize its real essence—a city of aromas and flavors, bursting with succulent treats at every turn.
This city’s rich culinary scene could be owed to its interesting history, but it is also due to the fact that Istanbul is the most populous city in Europe. From sweet pastries to savory kebabs, Istanbul’s gastronomy reflects the city’s diverse ethnic tapestry.
As we unveil this culinary theater, you’ll slowly see the charm of savoring Istanbul, one street food serving at a time. Brace yourself for a food journey destined to transform you into a devout Istanbul food lover. If you aren’t one already, that is!
What Street Food to Try in Istanbul, Turkey
Passing through the Istanbul culinary scene feels like navigating a maze of flavors, where every turn reveals a surprise treat. Get ready for a feast of the senses as we unveil the most mouth-watering street foods you absolutely must try in Istanbul:
DÖNER KEBAB (MEAT IN PITA BREAD)
Döner Kebab is arguably the most famous of Turkish street food offerings. But even if you’re a seasoned fan, nothing compares to trying it straight from the source. Döner Kebab features tender, marinated meat, slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie, nestled into soft pita bread, and topped with crunchy veggies and silky sauces.
TANTUNI (TURKISH WRAP)
Long-time Istanbul food lovers will already be familiar with this classic! Tantuni is made up of thin slices of spiced beef or lamb wrapped in soft lavash bread. It’s also topped with fresh tomatoes and parsley to cut through the rich flavor.
DONDURMA (TURKISH ICE CREAM)
Dondurma is not your average ice cream—it’s a chewy, decadent delight thanks to the incorporation of mastic and salep. Served by playful vendors with a flair for drama, it’s an edible spectacle you can’t afford to miss. Pro tip: engage with the vendors. Don’t be a spoilsport! The wait will be well worth the reward!
LOKMA (TURKISH DOUGHNUTS)
Picture warm, crunchy dough balls generously doused in sweet syrup—that’s precisely what lokmas are. It’s a comforting, familiar treat that we recommend to anyone who’s visiting Istanbul with small children.
KARIŞIK TOST (TURKISH TOAST)
Turkish toast is not your typical toast! This filling sandwich is packed with a medley of ingredients like sausage, cheese, tomatoes, and peppers, making it a fantastic energy booster for a day full of exploration.
ISLAK BURGERS (TURKISH BURGERS)
Islak Burgers put an intriguing twist on a universal fast-food favorite. These petite burgers are saturated in a flavorsome garlicky tomato sauce and then steamed, transforming them into soft, melt-in-your-mouth wonders. Who knew soggy burgers could taste so divine?
BÖREK (SAVORY FILLED PASTRY)
Börek is a culinary marvel with layers of thin, flaky dough and a filling of cheese, spinach, or minced meat. Baked until golden and crispy, Börek offers bursts of diverse flavors in every bite.
MIDYE DOLMA (STUFFED MUSSELS)
A go-to late-night snack, midye dolma are mussels filled with a scrumptious blend of spiced rice. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice on top for a zesty finish.
BALIK EKMEK (TURKISH FISH SANDWICH)
Balik Ekmek is made of freshly netted fish—grilled or fried to perfection—encased in hearty bread and garnished with crisp lettuce and piquant onions. It’s a coastal treat that’s often found in the heart of Istanbul.
LAHMACUN (TURKISH PIZZA)
Lahmacun is a delectable thin crust topped with a blend of minced meat, vegetables, and exciting spices. This staple is a must-try for Istanbul food lovers, offering a lighter, zestier take on traditional pizza.
GÖZLEME (STUFFED FLATBREAD)
Gözleme is a handmade flatbread filled with a variety of ingredients like spinach, cheese, or minced meat and carefully cooked on a griddle.
TURSU SUYU (PICKLED JUICE)
Tursu suyu is a local insider secret. This tangy juice made from pickled fruits and veggies is a unique palate cleanser and a prized remedy for hangovers.
PIDE (TURKISH FLATBREAD)
Pide is an irresistible boat-shaped delicacy filled with cheese, juicy meat, or fresh vegetables baked in traditional stone ovens. Certainly a Turkish comfort food in all its glory.
KOKOREÇ (GRILLED OFFALS)
Kokoreç is a must-try for adventurous Istanbul food lovers. This street food features seasoned lamb or goat intestines, expertly skewered and grilled over charcoal. The aroma may take some getting used to, but the taste is well worth it, especially if you love trying something new.
SIMIT (TURKISH BAGELS)
Turkish bagels, similar to their globally beloved counterparts, are coated with sesame seeds and often enjoyed as breakfast on the go. Perhaps the best thing about Simit is how it can be paired with both savory and sweet spreads, like cheese or jam.
MISIR (GRILLED CORN)
Grilled to perfection on open coals, these succulent corn cobs can be enjoyed as is or with a sprinkle of salt and a slather of butter for extra decadence.
KESTANE (ROASTED CHESTNUTS)
Kestane, slow-roasted chestnuts on open coals, are a traditional street snack. Their earthy sweetness is a comfort, especially during Istanbul’s colder days. They’re great to have handy when on a stroll or simply enjoying views of the Bosphorus.
İÇLI KÖFTE (TURKISH MEATBALLS)
These meatballs pair the crunchiness of deep-fried bulgur dough with the juiciness of its minced meat stuffing, offering a flavor-packed bite that’s hard to resist.
TAVUKLU PILAV (CHICKEN RICE)
Tavukli pilav features buttery, aromatic rice topped with tender, juicy chicken and served with crunchy pickles—a homey and comforting mix of textures and flavors.
KÜMPIR (BAKED POTATOES)
Kümpir is an excellent choice for Istanbul food lovers craving something heartier. These oversized potatoes are baked until fluffy, mashed with unsalted butter and cheese, then generously topped with a variety of ingredients.
The Best Places to Stay for Istanbul Food Lovers
With iconic landmarks and labyrinthine markets, Istanbul is a city that can sate both your hunger and your appetite for discovery. With that said, here are the five best areas for Istanbul food lovers who want to get their fill of the city:
1. SULTANAHMET
The Sultanahmet district is teeming with landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. When the appetite calls, you can head to Sultanahmet Köftecisi, a local favorite renowned for its köfte (meatballs) and piyaz (bean salad). Sweet tooths will also find their fix at Hafiz Mustafa 1864, a cherished bakery where Ottoman-era desserts come to life.
2. BEŞIKTAŞ
A lively and youthful district, Beşiktaş is another great place to score Turkish street food. Its Saturday market is dotted with vendors of balık ekmek (fish sandwich), börek (stuffed pastries), and other staples. Dolmabahçe Palace and Yıldız Park are conveniently nearby, too, if you need to post-meal stroll. Upscale boutiques, trendy cafés like Petra Roasting Co., and a wide variety of restaurants make Beşiktaş a paradise for Istanbul food lovers.
3. KADIKÖY
On the city’s Asian side, Kadıköy is a haven for Istanbul food lovers with its famed Kadıköy Market. There, you can enjoy a gastronomic stroll, with vendors like Şekerci Cafer Erol offering traditional sweets and Çiya Sofrası serving regional fare. Kadıköy is also a great place to catch a ferry ride and witness the magnificent Eastern and Western skylines from the Bosphorus.
4. FATIH
Named after Fatih Sultan Mehmet (the Conqueror), Fatih embodies Istanbul’s rich history. Experience a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi or delve into Ottoman cuisine at Turk Art Terrace. The Grand Bazaar is nearby if you’re up for a day of shopping, and historical attractions like the Süleymaniye Mosque and Chora Church are just around the corner.
5. KARAKÖY
Considered Istanbul’s hippest district, Karaköy beautifully melds the old with the new. Chic cafes and pastry shops, such as Karaköy Güllüoğlu and Namli Gurme, offer a selection of both sweet and savory Turkish fare. Post-meal, you can dive into the thriving art scene, visit vintage boutiques, or explore Istanbul’s Museum of Modern Art. The majestic Galata Bridge is also quite close and is a cherished spot among local anglers.
Find Street Eats & Suite Retreats With Hotala
Embarking on a culinary exploration through Istanbul’s lively lanes is a truly remarkable experience. As an Istanbul food lover, you’ll find the city’s food scene as dynamic and varied as its cultural heritage.
For a smoother gourmet adventure, plan your trip with Hotala! Choose your ideal accommodation from our extensive range of hotels, resorts, and holiday rentals, all conveniently located near Istanbul’s gastronomic gems.
And if you need more ideas for a foodie adventure, you can subscribe to The Hot List to get weekly updates on the Hottest destinations worldwide! Discover hot deals in hot destinations with Hotala.
