Istanbul cuisine: Must-try dishes and best restaurants

Istanbul, a city where centuries of history and culture meet, is also a culinary paradise. As a food enthusiast who has had the pleasure of exploring this vibrant city, I want to share my personal recommendations for the best things to eat in Istanbul, including must-try dishes, and where to find the best restaurants in Istanbul. Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the streets and tastes of this magnificent city.

By the way, if this is your first time in this incredible city, you might want to read my Complete guide for first time travellers to Istanbul.

1. Kebabs: A Meat Lover’s Dream

Let’s start with the classics – kebabs. Istanbul offers an array of kebabs, and one of my favorites is the Adana kebab. This spicy minced meat delight is grilled to perfection and served with fresh pita bread, sumac, and grilled vegetables. When it comes to experiencing Istanbul cuisine, you can’t go wrong with this classic dish. For the best rated kebabs, you can count on Tripadvisor’s reccommendations.

2. Balık Ekmek: The Seafood Street Snack

For a quick seafood fix, don’t miss ‘balık ekmek,’ a fish sandwich. You’ll find vendors by the Bosphorus serving up these tasty treats. The combination of freshly grilled fish, crisp lettuce, and a squeeze of lemon in a crusty bread roll is simply divine. It’s one of the must-try dishes in Istanbul, especially if you want to savor the flavors of the sea.

3. Baklava and Turkish Delights: A Sweet Indulgence

Istanbul’s sweet treats are legendary, and ‘Hafız Mustafa’ in Sultanahmet is a must-visit for baklava and Turkish delight. The layers of flaky pastry filled with pistachios and honey, or the fragrant rose-flavored Turkish delight, are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Exploring Istanbul’s dessert scene is an essential part of experiencing the city’s culinary delights.

4. Simit: The Turkish Bagel

As you wander the city, you’ll spot street vendors selling ‘simit,’ sesame-covered bread rings. Grab one and enjoy the satisfying crunch as you explore Istanbul’s streets. It’s a delightful snack to keep you energized while you delve into Istanbul’s rich culture and cuisine.

5. Turkish Breakfast: A Feast for the Morning

Kickstart your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast, complete with olives, cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, and an assortment of pastries.

Some of the best places for a Turkish breakfast with a view are: My Terrace and Seven Hills Restaurant.

6. More Sweets at Karaköy Gulluoglu

Visit Karaköy Gulluoglu for a variety of Turkish sweets, not just baklava. They have pistachio rolls and rose-flavored Turkish delight, among other treats. In my opinion, the baklavas here are some of the best I’ve ever tried. The only downside is that they have just one location, in Karakoy.

7. Kumpir: Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Don’t miss out on ‘kumpir,’ a popular street food consisting of baked potatoes stuffed with an array of toppings like cheese, corn, and pickles. We tried this in  Kadikoy and it was super delicious and filling.

8. Pide: Turkish Pizza

‘Pide’ is often described as Turkish pizza, featuring a boat-shaped dough filled with various toppings like minced meat, cheese, and vegetables. You can’t go wrong with a visit to a local ‘pideci’ for this delightful treat. Exploring Istanbul’s pide offerings is a delicious journey into the heart of Turkish cuisine.

9. Roasted Chestnuts: A Fall Favorite

If you’re visiting in the fall, be sure to try Istanbul’s roasted chestnuts. You’ll find street vendors selling these warm and nutty snacks, making them perfect for a chilly day of sightseeing. Roasted chestnuts are a seasonal delight that captures the essence of Istanbul’s street food culture.

10. Freshly Roasted Coffee: A Turkish Tradition

Wrap up your culinary adventure with a cup of freshly brewed Turkish coffee. The rich, aromatic coffee is a delightful way to end a meal and experience a cherished Turkish tradition. Savoring a cup of Turkish coffee is a cultural experience that completes your culinary journey in Istanbul.

One of the oldest and most popular places in town is Mandabatmaz, on Istiklal street.

PS: The perfect gift for your coffee-loving friends would be some grounded Turkish Coffee from Mehmet Efendi. You can find one popular shop in the Egyptian Bazaar.

In conclusion, Istanbul offers a culinary landscape rich in history and flavor. From the savory delights of kebabs and pide to the sweet pleasures of baklava and Turkish delight, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re exploring street food or dining in one of Istanbul’s renowned restaurants, the city’s cuisine is a feast for the senses. So, when you visit Istanbul, savor these must-try dishes and explore the city’s diverse food scene. Istanbul truly is a food lover’s paradise waiting to be discovered.