At these shops, you can find international wine selections aside from local wine and also enjoy delicious cousins that go well with wine. In this post, you can find the best wine bars both in the European and Asian side of Istanbul.

Best Wine Shops & Bars in Istanbul 2025

The best wine shops & bars of Istanbul are generally located in Beyoglu, Sisli and Kadikoy districts. Beyoglu district includes Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Galata and Karakoy. Since most of the places on our list are in these neighborhoods, we can say that Beyoglu is the best place to drink wine in Istanbul.

On our list, there are 9 premium wine shops in Istanbul where you can taste and buy wine. Most of them are also wine bars where you can have appetizers and have fun while drinking your wine.

You will notice that the names of most of the wine houses we propose in the article end with “Sarap Evi”. This term means Wine House in Turkish.

I would like to emphasize that the image above is symbolic. Since I do not have the licensed photos of the wine bars below, I could not add their images to the article. However, you can easily access the photos of these places from their official Instagram addresses.

1. Viktor Levi Wine House

Viktor Levi Sarap Evi is located on a side alley on the way to the dock in Kadikoy from Rexx Movie Theater. As the name suggests, it is a place where the owners produce their wine.

The owner of the place, Viktor Levi, was born in Gallipoli as the son of a fisher family. Viktor Levi’s wine-producing story started in Bozcaada and it continues at a garden of a mansion that has a historical atmosphere. Being one of the oldest wine houses in Istanbul, the wine at Viktor Levi is made of various grapes from all around Turkey.

You should also note that in addition to wine, you can find local and import cheese options, liver and other meat choices at Viktor Levi, and enjoy a nice meal while having your wine.

If you like fruit wine, you can also try cherry wine at Viktor Levi. Moreover, warm appetizers and olive oil dishes menus are rich at this place.

Victor Levi has been among the best wine houses in Istanbul in recent years. Since it is on the Asian side, it is a bit far from those who stay in Taksim and Sultanahmet. However, Kadikoy is one of the must-see places in Istanbul, and when you go there, you can taste local wines at Victor Levi.

2. Hazzo Pulo Wine Restaurant

Hazzo Pulo Sarap Evi is located at Asmalimescit in Beyoglu and it boasts an atmosphere that reminds visitors of a wine cellar. The place maintains its original architecture and has been serving its customers in the same place for years.

Hazzo Pulo offers wine made of various grapes from different parts of Turkey and a rich food menu. A rich cheese plate, appetizers, seafood, fried mushroom or Vienne style schnitzel are some of the options you can go for at Hazzo Pulo.

If you enjoy spending time in a historical atmosphere, Hazzo Pulo will be an excellent choice.

3. Pano Wine House

Tarihi Pano Saraphanesi was opened by Panayot Papadopulus to sell wine in 1898 and it carries the memories of Panayot, who was from a Greek family at Samatya.

After Panayot’s death, the wine house was managed by his relatives. Then, it was taken over by Emel Hanim. The wine house was shut down after Emel Hanim’s death in 1987 and it was bought by Fevzi Buyukerol to be restored in 1997.

Pano Sarap Evi is regarded as one of the best wine houses in Beyoglu (Taksim) and it also served as meyhane shortly. Later, it started to serve as a wine house and renamed as Pano Saraphanesi.

Apart from wine, delicious steaks, cheese plates, and shrimp casserole are some of the items in the food menu that are worth trying.

One of the most popular accommodation places in Istanbul is Taksim. Pano is located within walking distance for those staying around Taksim Square. You can also reach Pano, one of the best wine restaurants in Istanbul, by a 10-minute taxi ride from Sultanahmet (Old City).

4. Sensus Wine Shop

Sensus Wine is located under Anemon Hotel at Galata and it offers more than 400 wine options.

Sensus is the first wine boutique dedicated to Turkish wine and cheese. Therefore, you can order cheese and fruit while you enjoy your wine. Sensus Wine aims at serving good quality wine at affordable prices and it’s a must-go place due to its interesting and special décor, and its various wine choices.

The place also organizes wine tasting days and although it looks like a small place from the outside, you will be amazed by an impressive atmosphere when you enter the shop.

Sensus is a wine shop close to Galata Tower, one of the most important touristic spots in Istanbul. If you are staying in Taksim or Sultanahmet, you can choose Sensus Wine to buy wine from Istanbul.

5. Wayana Wine Bar

Wayana Wine Bar is located in Moda, one of the most popular districts of Istanbul in recent years. The name of this boutique wine house comes from the name given to wine by the Hittites, a historical civilization in Anatolia.

Wayana Wine House offers 408 types of wine from 72 Turkish wine producers. If you want to experience local Turkish wines, this wine bar located on the Asian Side of Istanbul is for you.

6. Lal Wine Bar

Lal Sarap Evi is located at Kadife Street, known as the bars street in Kadikoy and the place is decorated in a vintage style. You can enjoy your wine by the fireplace at this place and it’s open until 02:00 in the morning.

7. Hera Wine Bar

Hera Wine Bar serves its customers at a three-story Greek house on Kadife Street at Kadikoy and two different concepts are offered in the same building.

Besides wine, you can find cheese, appetizers, warm starters, and meat options as well. Some of the specialties include snacking plate that includes fresh vegetable hash browns with fried goat cheese, charcuterie plate or crepe.

Red and white barreled wine is consumed frequently at Hera, where you can listen to DJ performances too.

Kadife Street, where Lal and Hera are located, is a place famous for its bars. Kadife Sokak, where you can experience Kadikoy’s nightlife, is also home to the best wine bars in Istanbul.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post Best Wine Shops & Bars in Istanbul (Updated 2025) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

Best Street Food Tour in Istanbul

In this article, you can find the best food, best drinks and best desserts in Istanbul listed under different main titles. As a local guide, I hope to help you prepare your own self-guided Istanbul street food tour.

1. Turkish Breakfast

Turkish breakfast often consists of bread, cheese, boiled eggs, olives, and salads. Alternatively, you can opt for the Menemen, which is essentially a style of omelette.

Bal Kaymak – buffalo cream and honey – is another delicious breakfast classic that you can find on the streets of Istanbul. A number of pastries are available during the morning too while breakfasts are commonly washed down with tea and coffee.

2. Turkish Meze

When visiting Istanbul, you’ll want to enjoy as many tastes as possible. A traditional Turkish Meze, which describes a collection of small appetisers, is the perfect way to do it. Whether it’s a combination of 2-3 dishes or a little taste of several more is up to you.

Fava, cous cous, Muhammara, olives, and slaws are among the firm favourites. Meanwhile, street food mezes can be cold or hot, giving you plenty of choices during your visit.

3. Kebabs

Turkey is known around the world for its kebabs (otherwise known as kebaps), and they are a hallmark of Turkish street food. Doner kebabs are the best-known variant and can be made from vertically skewed chicken, beef, or lamb.

Other popular kebaps in the city include the Iskender kebab, Testi kebab, and Sish kebab. They are filling, delicious, and an iconic food that you cannot ignore during your stay in Istanbul.

4. Kofte Ekmek

Kofte Ekmek (meatball sandwich) sits alongside kebabs as a mainstay across Turkey, and Istanbul’s street food vendors produce some of the best. Koftes are grilled or pan-fried meatballs and are made with ground lamb or beef.

The beef variant is the most common minced beef dish in Turkey. Recipes do vary across the country but this city tend to mix the meat with breadcrumbs and spices before cooking. They are served with fries along with grilled veg or salad.

5. Kokorec

Kokorec is somewhat similar to horizontal kebaps. They are made from lamb’s intestines that are put on skewers and cooked over a charcoal fire.

The carts will often slowly cook the skewers and then cut off your portion before finishing it off over the fire, which provides some incredible sounds and smells.

Kokorecs can be prepared with various herbs and spices, although oregano is the most common. It is served inside bread.

6. Balik Ekmek

Balik Ekmek, or a fish sandwich, is a common street food found across the city of Istanbul. They can be made using a variety of fish fillets, although mackerel is the most frequent choice, that have been cooked in oil and are served inside a baguette.

They can be prepared in several ways but, for a truly authentic flavour, try the red onion, salad, and mayonnaise version. The golden skin and succulent meat is a delightful combo.

7. Dolma

The term Dolma is used in many countries, and describes an array of stuffed foods. In fact, the term literally translates to ‘stuffed’. When completing an Istanbul street food tour, you will encounter stuffed tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and zucchinis.

They are usually stuffed with ground meat, cheeses, and rice. The options are plentiful, and they can be topped with a healthy dollop of yoghurt or served with a lemon wedge.

8. Midye Dolma

Mussels are another common delicacy. The most common option is Midye Dolma, which is mussels that have been stuffed with aromatic rice, herbs, and pine nuts.

While also available in restaurants, the street food vendors bring a unique flavour to the table while there’s nothing quite like eating them while taking in the sights of the city. It is possible to find alternative versions, but Midye dolma is the most popular by far.

9. Pickles

Pickles, locally known as Tursu, are eaten with most meals in Turkey. When visiting Istanbul, you can find them at most street food stalls and carts. Don’t settle for pickles from a jar because the city’s freshly prepared pickles offer a completely different eating experience.

Pickles can come as a side to your main meal, or prepared with carrots, cucumbers, chilis, and onions for a delicious salad snack. Either way, you have to try a pickle in Istanbul.

10. Islak Hamburger

Islak Hamburger might not sound too appealing to first-time visitors, but you’ll soon understand why the locals are in love. The buns are coated with a tomato-garlic sauce while the assembled burgers are stored in a glass case where they sweat to create the wetness.

They don’t require cheese, salad, or extras but those things aren’t really needed. For a truly authentic experience, try ordering one late at night after a few drinks.

11. Simit

Pastries are another favourite on the list of Istanbul street foods. A Simit is a crisp savory roll that is shaped in a ring and topped with sesame seeds. The street stall versions tend to be a lot crisper than those bought in shops.

An Achma is another ring-shaped pastry that resembles a donut and has a soft texture. Both are eaten throughout the year while other pastries include Pogaca, which can be plain or filled with meat, cheese, or black olives.

12. Misir

Misir (sweet corn) vendors are commonplace in Istanbul. The corn is freshly grilled (sometimes boiled) and is often topped with spices, salt, and butter. The push-car sellers tend to sell corn as a seasonal snack, preferring the summer over the winter months.

This snack can be enjoyed in any other countries around the world, but the Turkish twist is unique. For a healthy snack that has a great crunchy texture as well as an unforgettable taste, this is an ideal solution.

13. Kestane

While Kestane (roasted chestnut) was once eaten solely in winter, it has now become a snack of choice that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Roasted chestnut vendors are readily available in all major tourist destinations as well as food markets.

They’re cheap, healthy, and are a great way to warm your stomach as the evening draws in. Whether eaten alone or shared with your partner, roasted chestnuts are always a winner.

Best Turkish Drinks in Istanbul

Turkish drinks play an important role in the Istanbul street food tour too. Wash the delightful local food in Istanbul down with some of these best Turkish drinks (or simply pick one up for on your travels around the city), and you’ll have even more reason to smile.

1. Turkish Beer

Istanbul’s bars and restaurants do import a lot of global favourites. Nonetheless, it would be a huge shame to visit Istanbul without tasking the best Turkish Beer.

Anadolu Efes is an Istanbul based brewery that launched in 1969 and produces Pilsener, Efes draft, Efes light, Efes Xtra, Efes dark brown, and Efex ice. Bomonti is another light beer that is a little sweeter, a little weaker (4.8%), a little deeper, and a little less carbonated. Lovely.

2. Turkish Raki

Turkish Raki is another alcoholic beverage that is loved by the locals, particularly with mezes or seafood dishes. From the drinks you know, it’s taste is closest to sambucca, although it is still very different.

It is also called Lion’s milk and is made from distilled grapes and aniseed. It is the preferred choice of beverage for celebrations in Istanbul and is the perfect way to celebrate your stay in the city.

3. Turnip Juice

Turnip juice, otherwise known as Salgam, is primarily consumed with the fish sandwich. Salgam doesn’t only include, and also uses the juice of purple pickled carrots along with various spices and salts. While it can be purchased in shops, many Istanbul street food vendors create it fresh in front of your eyes.

The iconic taste is one that you won’t forget while the vitamins are sure to leave feeling very well.

4. Pomegranate Juice

Fresh pomegranate juice is another very popular drink throughout Istanbul. Aside from being packed with nutrients and healthy goodness, it packs a real punch to leave you feeling alert while also delighting the taste buds with its fruity flavours.

As with turnip juice, pomegranate juice is readily available as a store-bought version. Nonetheless, fresh is best, which is why a street food vendor is the best option.

5. Ayran

Ayran is a yoghurt drink that is traditionally served in a mug. It is otherwise known as a Doogh, Tan, or Daweh while it is created by diluting the yoghurt with chilled iced water.

A number of variants such as carbonated drinks and the addition of pepper, mint, or lime juice do exist. However, the standard chilled yoghurt drink remains the firm favourite and is especially refreshing on a warm summer’s day.

Best Turkish Desserts in Istanbul

The Istanbul street food tour should also include treating yourself to some tasty Turkish desserts. There are several amazing sweets that the city’s street food vendors are universally adored for. Let’s take a look at the best Turkish desserts in Istanbul that you simply must try during your stay.

1. Baklava

The term Baklava describes a family of dessert pastries. They use layers of filo and are held together with honey or syrup for sweetness. Tulumba is a slight variation that deep fries the batter in syrup and are similar to churros.

Kadayif is still sweet and uses the same main ingredients, but is prepared to be a little crispier. Burma is a baklava that is filled with nuts while still using syrup to be sweet. All are readily available in the neighborhoods of Istanbul.

2. Turkish Delight

Turkish delight is a well-known confectionary that is replicated throughout the world. However, only the authentic Turkish delight will do. The starchy gel and sugar is bound around hazelnuts, walnuts, and pistachios while they can be flavoured with rosewater, orange, or mastic.

The incredible taste and texture will leave you smiling while the little icing dust on your fingers is a part of the tasting experience too. This will be one of the unforgetable moments of your self-guided street food tour in Istanbul.

3. Turkish Puddings

Muhallebi, Firin Sutlac, and Keskul are three very popular Turkish puddings that can be enjoyed in the heart of Istanbul.

The first is a milk pudding that uses rice, sugar, rice flour, and milk. The second is a variation of rice pudding that is baked for a unique texture that is chilled for several hours before serving.

The latter is a milk pudding that uses almonds and is often topped with pistachios and coconut shavings. Its texture means it is eaten with a spoon.

4. Tavuk Gogsu and Kazandibi

Tavuk Gogsu is a milk dessert that is made with shredded chicken breast, rice flour, and sugar. It is similar to the medieval blancmange, and you will not taste the chicken at all. Many vendors use a little cinnamon to give a distinct taste.

Kazandibi is another milk pudding but is caramelised. It traditionally used by burning the bottom of a tavuk gogsu, but is now often made as its own dessert without the chicken breast.

5. Turkish Icecream

Everyone loves icecream, and Istanbulites are no different. “Maras Dondurmasi” is a mastic icecream made from cream, sugar, whipped cream, mastic, and salep. It has a stretchy property that isn’t usually seen elsewhere. Dondurma is another slight variation.

They can be served in cones, inside pancakes, or on the side of other desserts. After one taste, you’ll be screaming for Turkish icecream forever.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post Istanbul STREET FOOD Tour (Self-Guided) → 2025 appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

In that sense, Turkish coffee that is cooked slowly in the sand or on coal is the best way to cook it. In this article, you can find the 14 best coffee shops in Istanbul where you can drink or buy Turkish coffee.

Best Turkish Coffee in Istanbul 2025

The best places to drink Turkish Coffee in Istanbul are generally in Beyoglu, Besiktas, Historical Peninsula (Sultanahmet and its surroundings) and Kadikoy (Asian Side) districts.

You can sit in these coffee shops and sip your coffee and observe the city life of Istanbul. Some coffee shops, such as Pierre Loti, are places with very beautiful views. These coffee shops are also the right places to buy Turkish coffee in Istanbul.

I would like to emphasize that the image above is symbolic. Since I do not have the licensed photos of the Turkish coffee shops below, I could not add their images to the article. However, you can easily access the photos of these places from their official Instagram addresses.

1. Mandabatmaz

Mandabatmaz is located right next to Olivia Passage and has been on Istiklal Avenue since 1967, where you can find delicious Turkish coffee. As the foam of coffee is so thick, it’s said “even a buffalo won’t sink in it”, the restaurant was named as Mandabatmaz (manda=buffalo). It’s one of the first places when it comes to Turkish coffee in Istanbul.

Although you can’t stay here for too long as the place is small, you should definitely visit it for coffee if you are at Beyoglu (aka Taksim). Moreover, service speed is really good at this shop.

Mandabatmaz is the best place to drink Turkish coffee in Istanbul according to many Istanbulites. You must experience this local place, which is very close to Taksim Square and Sultanahmet.

2. Sairler Kahvesi

Sairler Kahvesi is located on one of the quietest neighborhoods in Besiktas, Visnezade District. Sairler Kahvesi stands out with its nice décor and atmosphere as one of the coolest coffee shops in Istanbul. Moreover, you can dine here as well.

3. Pierre Loti

This place is named after the French author Pierre Loti and you can have your foamy coffee while you enjoy Sarayburnu and Golden Horn view here.

On this hill that you can reach via the cable car or on foot by walking through a cemetery, you can find some tea houses. This open-air space that can accommodate up to 1400 people is a popular place among both foreign and local visitors.

4. Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi

Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi is an old Ottoman monument and it’s located between Cemberlitas and Beyazit (near Sultanahmet). This place is famous for its shisha and Turkish coffee that is cooked on a coal fire.

Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi uses a special little roasted coffee and it’s also a very touristic place thanks to its historical atmosphere. Apart from coffee, different kind of tea, such as apple or sage tea, can also be found here.

5. Brew Coffeeworks

If you want to try different coffee types in a historical atmosphere, you need to visit Brew Coffeeworks at Eminonu (walking distance from Sultanahmet). It’s located at the ground floor of Legacy Ottoman Hotel on the way to the historical Sirkeci Railway Station.

On the wall of this place, you can see the Tortoise Trainer painting by Osman Hamdi Bey and the portraits of Architect Kemalettin Bey, the pioneer of 1^st National Architecture Movement.

In addition to coffee, desserts that are made daily are supplied from the hotel. Cheesecake or macaroon might be a good choice to have alongside your coffee here.

Brew Coffeeworks is essentially a 3rd wave coffee shop. However, the new generation coffee shops in Istanbul are also very good at traditional coffee cooking techniques. You can drink Turkish coffee at Brew Coffeeworks, one of the best coffee shops in Istanbul. This place is five minutes walk from Spice Bazaar.

6. Emirgan Tarihi Cinaralti

Emirgan Tarihi Cinaralti is located across Emirgan (Bosphorus) bus station and it’s located among hundreds of years of pine trees and it is where it derives its name from.

This place was opened in 1948 and famous Turkish poets such as Yahya Kemal Beyatli, Behcet Necatigil, and Farik Nafiz Camlibel used to be the regulars of this place.

We can easily say Emirgan Tarihi Cinaralti is one of the most ideal places to drink Turkish coffee where you can enjoy the breeze from the Bosphorus at the same time.

7. Latife Turk Kahvesi

Latife Turk Kahvesi is located in Besiktas neighborhood. This place produces and grinds their own coffee and your coffee is served alongside delicious home-made desserts and fresh cookies.

Latife Turkish Coffee is located in Besiktas district, famous for its hotels with Bosphorus view. Although this shop is not well known by tourists, it is the best place to buy Turkish coffee in Istanbul.

8. Bebek Kahvesi

Bebek Kahvesi was originally a fishermen coffee house that was opened in 1945 and it has been a popular spot among many thanks to its tea, bagel, menemen, and of course Turkish coffee.

Bebek Kahvesi is located behind Bebek Mosque and it still maintains its nostalgic atmosphere. Apart from coffee, you can have lunch and dinner at Bebek Kahvesi while you enjoy the breathtaking Bosphorus view.

9. Sark Kahvesi

Sark Kahvesi was first opened in 1958 at Grand Bazaar. This coffee house attracts both domestic and foreign visitors with its authentic atmosphere, where coffee is cooked in sand heat.

If you wish to take a break from your touristic trip and enjoy a delicious cup of Turkish coffee, this place is highly recommended.

You should experience shopping in the Grand Bazaar, which is a must-see place for those who come to Istanbul. When you are tired of shopping and want to refresh yourself, you can drink the best Turkish coffee in Istanbul at Sark Kahvesi.

10. Fazil Bey’in Turk Kahvesi

Fazil Bey’in Turk Kahvesi has several branches but it was first opened at Kadikoy Fish Market. Fazil Bey’s sons decided to honor their father’s memory and they modernized the shop that Fazil Bey operated for almost 50 years at Kadikoy Carsisi.

The shop is decorated with coffee grinding machines and coffee sacks and you can buy fresh coffee here. You can enjoy different kinds of Turkish coffee such as gum mastic, cardamom, bitter chocolate Turkish coffee at Fazil Bey’in Turk Kahvesi.

The most important place to visit on the Asian side of Istanbul is Kadikoy. While visiting Kadikoy Fish Market, don’t forget to experience the best Turkish coffee in Istanbul at Fazil Bey.

Best Turkish Coffee Brand in Istanbul

Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, the best coffee brand in Istanbul, is a place to buy only ground coffee. You can buy Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi’s coffees from the shop next to the Spice Bazaar. There is also a shop in Kadikoy on the Asian Side.

Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi does not serve Turkish coffee like other places on our list. However, I must say that it is the preferred place for local people to buy Turkish coffee in Istanbul.

Best Turkish Coffee in Istanbul 2025 by Serhat Engul

The post Best Turkish Coffee in Istanbul (Updated → 2025) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

We’ve put together a list of where to find the very best baklava in Istanbul if you’re not sure where to start. Read on to find out more about them and see which of them take your fancy. Each establishment is different and offers something unique, yet they all serve delicious baklava.

8 Best Baklava Shops in Istanbul 2025

The best baklava shops in Istanbul can be found around Sultanahmet and Taksim. With a short walk from Sultanahmet, you can reach Sirkeci Square or Eminonu and find Baklava places on our list. If you are looking for baklava around Taksim, you can try the historical shops on Istiklal Street or Karakoy. For those staying on the Asian Side, there are great options around the Kadikoy Fish Market.

1. Karakoy Gulluoglu

One of the names most commonly associated with baklava in Istanbul is Karakoy Gulluoglu. It’s been there since the 19th century and has been run by the Güllüoğlu family that whole time. This Karakoy location first opened in 1949 and it’s still serving some of the most delicious baklava in Istanbul to this day.

They create traditional baklava using peanuts from Gaziantep and walnuts from Karahisar, but there are some Güllüoğlu specialities you should try out while you’re there too. For example, the sobiyet baklava and the chocolate baklava are both worth trying out because they taste simply divine. Be sure not to miss out.

Karakoy Gulluoglu is by far the most famous baklava place in Istanbul. This baklava shop is located in walking distance from Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Galata Tower. You can reach out to the spot with a simple tram ride from Sultanahmet Old City as well.

There are several reasons why Karakoy Gulluoglu is the best place to buy baklava in Istanbul. First of all, this baklava shop is located at equal distance to two important touristic centers such as Taksim Square and Sultanahmet. Second, the shop is designed to serve and sell baklava quickly. You can see the stands with many types of baklava at the same time and make a decision right away.

2. Hamdi Restaurant

Hamdi Restaurant is located in Eminonu and it’s a great place to stop and enjoy authentic Turkish baklava and other desserts while you’re exploring and learning more about this part of Istanbul. They also serve hot food and great drinks, but many people visit simply for the desserts.

It’s a place that has a great location and the views over the historic city are simply amazing if you’re sitting by the window. The service is always very friendly too, and you won’t be let down by the food that’s served once you’re inside and enjoying the ambience. It’s a must-visit location when you’re in the city.

Hamdi Restaurant is reachable from Sultanahmet by walking. In order to come to Hamdi from Beyoglu (Taksim), you need to cross the Galata Bridge. The restaurant is right next to Spice Bazaar.

3. Hafiz Mustafa

Hafiz Mustafa (Hakki Zade) is a chain of dessert shops that you’ll find dotted around Istanbul and the surrounding areas. It has a reputation for incredible desserts and that reputation is well-earned. It’s a big hit with locals and tourists alike, and that just goes to show how strong the quality of the food really is.

There’s a location in Sirkeci and other places, but no matter which one you find yourself in, you certainly won’t be let down by the quality of what’s on offer. The food is like no other place in the city and the range of desserts on offer is unbeatable. You’ll spend a long time deciding which of the many tantalising treats you actually want to order.

You can find Hafiz Mustafa (also known as Hakki Zade) dessert shop in Sirkeci, Eminonu and Istiklal Street (Walking streeet from Taksim Square to Galata Tower).

Hafiz Mustafa has become the fastest growing dessert brand in Istanbul in recent years. Located on Istiklal Street, the heart of the city, Hafiz Mustafa is also known as the best baklava shop in Taksim (aka Beyoglu).

4. Ali Usta Baklava

You’ll find Ali Usta Baklava in Sirkeci, which is a small quarter in Eminonu, the main transportation hub of Istanbul’s Old City. The dessert you’ll find here is among the finest in the city or anywhere in Turkey for that matter. As well as serving baklava, they also serve kadayıf, a sweet and crispy treat made from phyllo dough.

Both the kadayıf and the baklava are incredible at Ali Usta and they shouldn’t be missed. They have a range of options in both of those two dessert categories and you owe it to yourself to sample a few of each when you find yourself exploring Sirkeci. You won’t regret it.

Sirkeci is a little square next to Sirkeci Tram Station. It’s just a few minutes walk from Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. It’s definitely recommended to come down to Sirkeci in order to experience the local eateries. Hocapasa Restaurants offer great local food whereas Ali Usta offers the best baklava in Istanbul Old City.

5. Koskeroglu

This busy and bustling restaurant is most famous for its baklava, and if you find yourself in its vicinity, you must try it out. Koskeroglu is located in Karakoy, and the food served is both authentic and affordable. It’s very close to Galata Tower, which makes it a good place to stop and eat when you’re seeing the sights in Istanbul.

Another thing Koskeroglu is famous for is the kunefe, which is a sweet pastry dish. It’s most likely something that you’ve never experienced before, but you’ll certainly want to. It’s like no other dessert dish in the world, and Köşkeroğlu is the perfect place to try it out.

6. Konyali Restaurant

The views over the water are enough to hold your attention when you’re dining at Konyali Restaurant, but if you can take your eyes off them for a second, you’ll notice the incredible quality of the food too. Their authentic Turkish kebabs are great, but the dessert is where the restaurant really shines.

The baklava is fantastic, as are the other dessert options you’ll find on the menu. It’s the ideal setting to sit back, relax and enjoy some amazing Turkish food. There are few better locations in the city.

Konyali Restaurant is very close to both Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque) and Eminonu (Spice Bazaar). In Konyali, the best baklava restaurant in Istanbul, you can experience local Turkish food and then eat your dessert.

7. Cigdem Pastanesi

Cigdem Pastanesi is home to some of the best Turkish desserts you’ll find in Istanbul. It’s located in the area of Sultanahmet and it’s often visited by tourists who come to the city. The menu is a joy to behold, with it including a wide range of Turkish cakes and desserts of all kinds.

Among them is, of course, some incredible tasting baklava. You really don’t know what you’re missing until you try it out for yourself. It’s also a very affordable and traditional establishment, which many people don’t expect with it being located in such a tourist-heavy region of the city.

Cigdem Patisserie is a great place specializing in many desserts. Cigdem, the best baklava shop in Sultanahmet, is a great refreshment spot for those who are tired of visiting historical places.

8. Sekerci Cafer Erol

If you find yourself in Kadikoy, you simply must stop at Sekerci Cafer Erol. Sekerci Cafer Erol is located right in the middle of the Kadikoy area and the brand has been serving amazing cakes and desserts to citizens and visitors to Istanbul for 200 years now. That incredible legacy is underlined by the quality of their cakes and desserts.

This particular branch in Kadikoy Fish Market has been around since 1945 and the standards of the food have remained high ever since. You can get some amazing baklava, but many people head there for the ice cream, which is said to be some of the best in the area.

Sekerci Cafer Erol is the best baklava shop in Istanbul according to Istanbulites living on the Asian Side of Istanbul. You can see that there is a queue in front of the shop at any time of the day.

Each of the destinations discussed above offers great Baklava, so be sure to try some of them out next time you’re exploring Istanbul and sampling its wonderful food.

Best Baklava Places in Istanbul by Serhat Engul

The post 8 Best Places for Baklava in Istanbul (Updated → 2025) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

So, no trip to the city is complete without trying the best Turkish Delight in Istanbul, right? But where do you find it? There’s a lot of debate over which store or brand stands above the rest, but you can’t go wrong with any of these choices.

Best Places for Turkish Delight in Istanbul 2025

The best Turkish delight shops in Istanbul can be found around Sultanahmet and Taksim. The oldest lokum shops of Istanbul are located in Sirkeci and Eminonu districts near Sultanahmet. If you want to buy Turkish delight around Taksim, you can visit the historical shops on Istiklal Street. For those staying on the Asian Side, Kadikoy is a good alternative to buy Turkish Delight.

1. Ali Muhittin Hacibekir

The oldest Turkish Delight shop in Istanbul and widely credited for begin the origin of the confectionary, Ali Muhittin Hacibekir has expanded greatly since its founding in 1777.

Even if it’s not where lokum (the original name of the sweet) was first made, it’s where the concept of “Turkish Delight” was founded when an English tourist visited the shop and brought the sweet back to Europe with him, igniting a craze.

It’s still undoubtedly one of the best, with three locations: one in Eminonu in the Old City, one on Istiklal Street in Beyoglu and one on Kadikoy in the Asian side.

Ali Muhittin Hacibekir is the best place to buy Turkish Delight near Sultanahmet (Old City). Located in Eminonu, which you can reach with a ten-minute walk from Sultanahmet, the shop is located in an area famous for street food.

2. Koska

Koska is the second biggest Turkish Delight brand in the city, this widespread chain can be found in Eminonu, next to the Spice Bazaar, Sirkeci near the Tram Station or Istiklal Street in Beyoglu. Since opening their first store in this city in 1930, it’s become a mainstay of Istanbul culture and tourism.

Despite the widespread growth of the brand, all the stores are still freshly made, and they even provide diabetic products so everyone can have a taste of something delicious.

The Koska shop you see in the picture above is located on Istiklal Street. Koska, which you can reach with a ten-minute walk from Taksim Square, is the best place to buy Turkish delight in Beyoglu (aka Taksim).

3. Hafiz Mustafa

Another of the oldest competitors to be awarded the lofty title of “best Turkish Delight brand in Istanbul”, Hafiz Mustafa is not a new brand, but a rapidly growing one in recent history.

With stores in Eminonu, Sirkeci, and on Istiklal Street, they sell a wide variety of creative flavours, not to mention some of the best Baklava in the city, so if you’re feeling like a treat, there are few better places to find one.

It’s worth nothing that there are plenty of Turkish Delight stalls and sellers in the Spice Bazaar, and many of them are just fine but you need to keep going to Sirkeci or Eminonu if you want the genuine Turkish brands.

About Eminonu Area (and Sirkeci Quarter)

Right at the entrance of the Golden Horn, the old harbour beside the Sea of Marmara, you can find this beautiful neighbourhood, one of the oldest in the whole of Istanbul.

Eminonu is home to many of the biggest Turkish Delight brands but features plenty to see besides, including Ottoman mosques, local markets and traditional bazaars.

Sirkeci is a little square next to Sirkeci Tram Station. It’s just a few minutes walk from Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. It’s definitely recommended to come down to Sirkeci in order to experience some of the best dessert places and local restaurants in Istanbul.

4. Sekerci Cafer Erol

Sekerci Cafer Erol, a smaller brand than the others, located in the heart of Kadikoy Fish Market, it stands out well amongst the other range of high-quality traditional and contemporary Turkish eateries that can be found in the area.

Having served it for 200 years, they have mastered the craft, serving Turkish Delight with pistachio, rose, walnut, fig, orange and just about every other kind of flavour you could hope for. If you want to see just how versatile lokum can be, this is the place to do it.

Sekerci Cafer Erol is the best place to buy Turkish delight in Kadikoy (Asian Side of Istanbul). You can choose your dessert from this famous shop as the Istanbulites do.

About Kadikoy Area (Asian side of Istanbul)

A name that pops up many times on the list, this area of Istanbul, also known as the Asian Side, is one of the finest places to eat in the city. The Moda Tea Garden provides an excellent place to sit and drink by the sea, while street food places on every corner have kept both locals and tourists well-fed with the energy needed to explore the city. Bahariye Street is great for a little souvenir shopping, too.

5. Uc Yildiz Sekerleme

Found in Istiklal Street, Taksim, Uc Yildiz Sekerleme is one of the more hidden gems featured on the list. You can find the traditional confectionary shop in the Beyoglu Fish Market. Everything here is made using only traditional techniques, including not just lokum but homemade jams, halva, chocolate and candies.

Now past its 90th anniversary, the shop has been run by the same family for 3 generations and is a hallmark of the market. If you want to try the original Turkish Delight in Istanbul, made in the original way, this is the place to do it.

About Istikal Avenue (Commonly known as Taksim)

One of the most famous avenues in the whole city and one that sees over a million people visit on the average day. This spot, full of Turkish Delight stores, can be crowded, but its worth it not just for the many culinary experiences but also the sheer amount of shopping to be done.

Widely known as the beating heart of the city, some visitors and locals alike have a love/hate relationship with Istiklal Street but it’s worth at least a short stop to see what all the fuss is about.

6. Cemilzade 1883

Cemilzade 1883 is a brand with plenty of prestige, it has been widely lauded as the first and best Turkish Delight store in Kadikoy, the Asian Side of Istanbul. It’s one of the more famous spots for lokum in the city, having celebrated its anniversary every year in the papers.

It’s also often listed as one of the top 100 places to eat or drink in all of Istanbul. Delicious traditional coffees are also offered alongside the chance to meet and greet the owner after the store closes, when you can learn a little more about both the store and Turkish Delight’s history in Istanbul.

This shop can be found in Fenerbahce and Saskinbakkal neighborhoods of Kadikoy (Asian Side) as well as the Nisantasi (Sisli) and Etiler (Besiktas) neighborhoods of European Side.

7. Tadinda Anadolu

Don’t have the time to visit any of the stores mentioned above? Or perhaps you’re only making a flying stop in Istanbul but still want to experience some of the finest, most varied flavours of the treat? Tadinda Anadolu is the best place to buy Turkish Delight in Istanbul Airport, without a doubt, and competes with many of the stores in the city proper.

8. Spice Bazaar

While perhaps not offering the same quality of Turkish Delight as the other, more established brands, there are still tons of places to try the sweet in the Spice Bazaar in the Eminonu area. Stall and store owners do a lot to make their offerings extra pleasing to the eye, so you’re sure to find some excellently Instagrammable lokum here!

9. Grand Bazaar

Like the Spice Bazaar, there are tons of places to try some Turkish Delight in the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, a tourist destination in its own right.

Again, they might not quite live up to the quality of the other brands mentioned here but if you have a craving while you’re sightseeing, there are plenty of confectionaries to try.

10. Arasta Bazaar

Although Arasta Bazaar is smaller than the two famous bazaars on the top lines, it is a place where you can find many things, including Turkish delight.

Arasta Bazaar is located right next to the Blue Mosque. For this reason, it is an easy place to reach for those staying in Sultanahmet, where famous historical monuments such as Hagia Sophia are located.

Conclusion

There you have it! If you want to know where to buy Turkish Delight in Istanbul in 2025, we have given you plenty of places to start! Think we’ve missed any places that deserve a spot on the list? Feel free to get in touch or leave a comment about your own Turkish lokum experiences in the city.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post 10 Places for Turkish Delight in Istanbul (Updated 2025) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

From ferry piers to market alleys, Istanbul’s street food culture reflects movement, migration, and daily urban rhythm. These foods are not staged attractions but practical meals shaped by commuting patterns, neighborhood life, and regional culinary traditions from across Turkey.

This guide focuses on widely recognized street foods that visitors are likely to encounter while moving between historic districts such as Sultanahmet, Eminönü, Beyoğlu, Karaköy, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş. Rather than presenting an exhaustive gourmet list, it outlines accessible starting points for understanding Turkish cuisine in its most informal form.

Best Street Food in Istanbul (2026)

Most of Istanbul’s recognizable street food spots cluster around historic and transit-heavy districts. Areas such as Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Eminönü, Beyoğlu (Taksim), Karaköy, Kadıköy, and Üsküdar serve as daily commuter hubs, and food culture naturally develops around ferry docks, tram lines, and busy squares.

While exploring these neighborhoods, it is often possible to step slightly away from the main tourist flow and observe where office workers, students, and local residents eat during lunch breaks or evening rush hours. Street food in Istanbul is less about hidden secrets and more about timing and foot traffic.

2026 Price Overview

As of early 2026, street food prices in Istanbul generally range between 25 TL and 600 TL, depending on ingredients and location.

• Simit: 20–25 TL
• Midye Dolma: 20–30 TL per piece
• Sweet Corn (boiled or grilled): 50–60 TL
• Roasted Chestnuts: 100–150 TL (small cone)
• Rice with Chickpeas: 100–150 TL (with chicken: 200–250 TL)
• Balık Ekmek (Eminönü): 260–300 TL
• Kokoreç: 300–500 TL
• Kumpir (Ortaköy): 350–600 TL
• Köfte / Döner (central areas): 250–450 TL

Exchange rates fluctuate, but at the time of writing, 1 USD is approximately 43–45 TL.

Street food is generally safe to consume in Istanbul, particularly in high-traffic areas with rapid turnover. However, if a meat-based sandwich is priced significantly below the city average, caution is advisable. In central districts, fish, chicken, or meat sandwiches rarely cost less than 250 TL.

1. Balık Ekmek

Balık ekmek (fish sandwich) is available in many districts of Istanbul, but when locals mention it, Eminönü is usually the first place that comes to mind. Along the waterfront, small boats grill mackerel sandwiches while seagulls circle overhead and ferries cross the Golden Horn. Many visitors choose to eat on simple street stools facing the water, with the silhouette of Galata Tower visible in the distance.

Near Galata Bridge, which connects Karaköy and Eminönü, you will find numerous vendors selling similar sandwiches. Under the bridge itself, several restaurants offer tables overlooking the water if you prefer a more settled setting while tasting freshly grilled fish. The area is within easy walking distance of Sultanahmet and Karaköy, making it a natural stop between major sights.

For a slightly different atmosphere, some locals prefer quieter neighborhoods along the Bosphorus. In places like Yeniköy, modest waterfront eateries such as Nimet Abla Balık Ekmek or Taka Balık Ekmek are known for simple but well-prepared sandwiches, including grilled anchovy when in season.

2. Midye Dolma

Midye dolma consists of mussels stuffed with spiced rice, currants, and pine nuts, typically served with a squeeze of lemon. It is one of the most recognizable evening street snacks in Istanbul, especially in busy waterfront districts and market areas.

You will often see vendors carrying trays of mussels or small street carts lined with neatly arranged shells. While many locals buy them casually from standing stalls, some visitors prefer more established venues. Well-known names such as Mercan Kokoreç and Şampiyon Kokoreç offer midye dolma in central areas like the Beyoğlu Fish Market near Taksim and the Kadıköy Market on the Asian side.

Another longstanding option is Tarihi Karaköy Midyecisi, a shop dating back to 1921. Located in Karaköy, within walking distance of Galata Bridge, it provides a more settled setting for those who prefer to sit down while tasting this classic street snack.

3. Kokoreç

Kokoreç is a traditional offal sandwich made from seasoned lamb intestines, slowly grilled over charcoal and finely chopped before being served in bread. It is especially popular in the evenings and is often associated with late-night food culture in Istanbul. Broadly speaking, you may encounter two common styles: the more finely chopped and herb-forward İzmir style, and the slightly chunkier Istanbul version.

On the Asian side, Çengelköy Kokoreççisi in the waterfront neighborhood of Çengelköy has built a loyal local following over the years. Its single-branch setup and well-balanced seasoning — often enhanced with thyme and pepper — make it a steady reference point for many regulars.

In more central areas, visitors frequently come across kokoreç shops near Istiklal Street and the Beyoğlu Fish Market, within walking distance of Taksim Square. Names such as Mercan Kokoreç and Şampiyon Kokoreç are commonly seen in these districts. On the Asian side, options like Güneş Kokoreç in Üsküdar or Meşhur Kokoreççi Adem Usta in Kadıköy are among the established choices.

For those staying near Sultanahmet, Gala Kokoreç in Sirkeci — opposite the historic Post Office building — offers an accessible stop within walking distance of the Old City’s main landmarks.

4. Pilav

Pilav (rice pilaf) is one of the most widespread street foods in Istanbul and can be found throughout the day, from small neighborhood stalls to late-night counters. It is typically served plain or topped with shredded chicken, beans, or sautéed meat, and often accompanied by a cup of ayran.

Some of the better-known addresses are located in the older commercial districts. Meşhur Tahtakale Pilavcısı, near the Spice Bazaar, is a compact and long-standing stop where many locals opt for pilav with chicken. Nearby, Meşhur Unkapanı Pilavcısı, close to Atatürk Bridge, is another reference point in the Historic Peninsula.

For a slightly richer variation, Tarihi Kalkanoğlu Pilavcısı prepares pilav with butter and broth, offering options such as fried meat or beans. Branches can be found in Beyoğlu and Kadıköy. On the Asian side, Pilavcıoğlu, near the Kadıköy Fish Market, is another established choice, serving pilav alongside simple soups and sautéed dishes.

Although modest in appearance, pilav remains one of the most filling and practical street food options in the city, especially for those seeking a quick and affordable meal between sightseeing stops.

5. Simit

Simit is one of the simplest yet most visible elements of daily life in Istanbul. In the early hours of the morning, street vendors stack circular sesame-crusted breads on red carts, and commuters often carry one alongside a small glass of Turkish tea — whether on the pavement or aboard the city’s ferries.

It is usually eaten plain or split and filled with white cheese. Some vendors also offer sweeter variations, but the classic combination of simit and tea remains the most common choice.

Across different neighborhoods, long-standing bakeries continue this tradition. Addresses such as Tarihi Karaköy Galata Simitçisi in Karaköy, Tarihi Harbiye Fırını in Şişli, Tarihi Boğazkesen Fırını in Cihangir, and Çiğdem Pastanesi in Sultanahmet are among the established names often mentioned by locals.

These historic districts — where many traditional bakeries are located — also happen to be areas where visitors choose to stay, offering easy access to both landmarks and everyday food culture.

6. Köfte Ekmek

Köfte ekmek — grilled meatballs served in bread — is one of the most practical street foods in Istanbul. It is commonly associated with football match days, when vendors line the streets around stadiums, especially near Beşiktaş Stadium, filling the air with the scent of charcoal grills.

Beyond stadium areas, köfte ekmek vendors appear wherever crowds gather — along the Bosphorus waterfront, near ferry docks, and in busy squares. For many locals, it is less a tourist snack and more a familiar part of everyday urban life.

In Beyoğlu, Köfteci Hüseyin, within walking distance of Taksim Square, is a long-standing stop. Those staying in the Old City may head to Hocapaşa Street near Sirkeci Tram Station, where Rumeli Köftecisi and Filibe Köftecisi stand side by side. In Beşiktaş, Şöhretler Köftecisi is another established name, while on the Asian side, Express İnegöl Köftecisi near the Kadıköy Fish Market attracts a steady local clientele throughout the day.

Although simple in appearance, köfte ekmek reflects Istanbul’s social rhythm — quick, communal, and often eaten standing, just a few steps from the street.

7. Mısır

Mısır (sweet corn) is one of the simplest yet most visible elements of Istanbul’s street food scene. Vendors typically serve it boiled or grilled, and in recent years, some stalls have begun offering it in cups mixed with butter or spices.

Corn stalls appear in busy public spaces rather than hidden back streets — near ferry docks, market entrances, and large squares. You will often encounter them around the Spice Bazaar, in Sultanahmet, or in waterfront districts such as Kadıköy, Üsküdar, Eminönü, and Beşiktaş. Because it is easy to eat while walking, mısır functions more as a light pause between stops than a full meal.

Although modest, it reflects Istanbul’s everyday rhythm: practical, seasonal, and closely tied to pedestrian life.

8. Döner Kebab

Döner kebab remains one of the most widely consumed quick meals in Istanbul. Thin slices of seasoned meat rotate vertically over heat and are served either in bread or on a plate. While döner can be found throughout the city, long-standing shops in older commercial districts often attract a steady local crowd.

In areas such as Sultanahmet, Eminönü, Beşiktaş, and Üsküdar, smaller eateries filled with office workers during lunch hours are usually a reliable sign of freshness. Names such as Dönerci Şahin Usta near the Grand Bazaar, Karadeniz Döner (Asım Usta) in Beşiktaş, or Zümrüt Döner near the Spice Bazaar are frequently mentioned among regulars.

It is not accidental that many well-known street food stops cluster near ferry piers. Districts like Karaköy, Eminönü, Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, and Üsküdar serve as daily transit hubs, and food culture naturally develops around these commuter flows. Observing where locals eat during rush hours often tells you more than any recommendation list.

9. Kumpir

Kumpir (baked potato) is closely associated with Ortaköy, a Bosphorus neighborhood known for its waterfront square and mosque view. Along the main pedestrian street, rows of vendors prepare large baked potatoes in dedicated ovens, opening them wide and mixing the inside with butter and cheese before adding toppings of your choice.

Common additions include Russian salad, bulgur salad, mushrooms, olives, corn, or red cabbage with yogurt. The experience is less about a single “best” shop and more about the atmosphere: ordering from one of the lined-up counters, sitting along the waterfront, and watching the Bosphorus traffic pass by with Ortaköy Mosque in the background.

Many visitors continue their walk along the shoreline toward Bebek afterward — a route that reflects how street food in Istanbul often blends naturally with the city’s geography.

10. Islak Hamburger

Islak hamburger (literally “wet burger”) is one of the distinctive late-night snacks of Istanbul, especially associated with Taksim Square and Sıraselviler Street. The burger is lightly steamed after being coated in a garlicky tomato-based sauce, giving it its characteristic soft texture.

Shops around Taksim display stacks of these small burgers inside glass cases, gently steaming until ordered. The flavor profile is simple yet rich, with noticeable butter and spice. It is most commonly eaten standing, often after concerts, night outings, or late ferry rides.

Among the well-known addresses in the area, Kızılkayalar is frequently mentioned due to its central location and long-standing presence. As with many Istanbul street foods, timing and setting — especially the late-night atmosphere — shape the experience as much as the food itself.

11. Kestane

Kestane (roasted chestnuts) has long been associated with Istanbul’s winter streets, although today vendors can be seen in many seasons. Small carts with glowing charcoal braziers appear in high-footfall areas such as Taksim, Eminönü, and Sultanahmet, especially during the colder months.

Roasted chestnuts are typically sold by weight in paper cones and eaten while walking. Their appeal lies less in complexity and more in timing — warm in hand, simple in flavor, and easy to consume between sightseeing stops. In winter evenings, the scent of roasting chestnuts often becomes part of the city’s atmosphere.

12. Pide

Pide is an oval-shaped flatbread baked in a stone oven and topped with ingredients such as cheese, minced meat, egg, or sausage. While its elongated shape may remind some visitors of pizza, pide has its own seasoning profile and baking technique rooted in Anatolian cuisine.

In the historic peninsula, small restaurants around Sirkeci and Hocapaşa Street, within walking distance of Sultanahmet, are common places to try freshly baked pide. On the Asian side, eateries inside or near the Kadıköy Fish Market also serve reliable versions, including well-known names such as Pide Sun.

Unlike quick street snacks eaten standing, pide is usually enjoyed seated, often shared, and prepared to order — making it closer to a casual meal than a grab-and-go bite.

13. Lahmacun

Lahmacun is a thin flatbread topped with finely minced meat, herbs, and spices, and it is widely consumed across Istanbul. Although it appears simple, regional variations from cities such as Gaziantep, Urfa, and Adana influence its seasoning and texture, reflecting broader Anatolian culinary traditions.

In the historic peninsula, restaurants near the Spice Bazaar, including Hamdi Restaurant, serve well-known versions. Around Taksim, places such as Münhasır Döner & Kebab also include lahmacun on their menus.

On the Asian side, Kadıköy offers several long-standing options. Names such as Borsam Taşfırın and Çiya Sofrası are often mentioned when discussing regional styles and broader Anatolian cuisine. Lahmacun is typically rolled with parsley and a squeeze of lemon, making it easy to eat and share.

14. Gözleme

Gözleme is a traditional flatbread filled with ingredients such as spinach, potatoes, cheese, or minced meat, then cooked on a large convex griddle. Because it is prepared fresh to order, it is less common as a quick grab-and-go street snack compared to other items on this list.

In the Old City, small eateries along the slope descending beside Hagia Sophia, near the tram line, sometimes prepare gözleme in view of passersby. Establishments such as Otantik Anadolu Yemekleri, with branches in Beyoğlu and Kadıköy, focus on traditional home-style dishes and include gözleme among their offerings.

Unlike faster street foods, gözleme is usually eaten seated and prepared individually, giving it a more domestic character within Istanbul’s broader food culture.

15. Cağ Kebap

Cağ kebap originates from Erzurum in eastern Turkey and is traditionally made from horizontally stacked lamb, slow-roasted and sliced onto small skewers. While it may resemble döner at first glance, its preparation technique and seasoning differ, resulting in a richer and more pronounced lamb flavor.

In the Sirkeci neighborhood, Hocapaşa Street has become known for its concentration of regional restaurants. Among them, Şehzade Cağ Kebap is frequently cited as a reference point for this Erzurum specialty. The area is easily accessible from both Sultanahmet and Taksim, making it a practical stop within the historic center.

Hocapaşa’s appeal lies not in a single dish, but in its representation of Anatolia’s regional cuisines within a compact alley — a reminder that Istanbul’s street food culture often reflects migration patterns and culinary diversity from across Turkey.

Conclusion

The dishes listed above represent only a portion of Istanbul’s street food culture, yet they offer a practical introduction to the city’s everyday culinary rhythm. From ferry piers to market streets, these foods are woven into daily routines rather than presented as staged attractions.

For first-time visitors, they provide an accessible way to experience Turkish cuisine in its most informal form — standing at a counter, sharing a table, or eating between historic landmarks. Beyond this selection, however, Istanbul’s food scene extends into regional restaurants, neighborhood bakeries, and small family-run establishments that reflect the city’s layered identity.

If you wish to explore further, you may also consult my detailed guide on a self-guided food tour in Istanbul, which maps out a deeper culinary route across different districts.

Written by Serhat Engul

The post Best Street Food in Istanbul (2026 Guide) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

Beyoglu is one of the first neighborhoods when it comes to reflecting the cosmopolite culture of the Ottoman Empire. The streets of Beyoglu started to become more lively, especially after the second half of the 19^th century and these streets are as colorful as ever.

As Beyoglu was the center of embassies, theatre halls, luxurious hotels, and business centers, these developments contributed a lot to Beyoglu’s neighborhoods. Today, such places in Beyoglu as Karakoy, Galata, Cihangir, Pera, and Istiklal Avenue are still popular.

Moreover, being the melting pot of various cultures created its unique food culture too. And tons of restaurants in Beyoglu (aka Taksim) still keep this rich culture alive all around the neighborhood.

Best Restaurants in Taksim, Karakoy, Istiklal Street

In this post, I’ve listed the best restaurants in Taksim, Karakoy, Cihangir and Istiklal Street (all in Beyoglu district) for the visitors who plan to enjoy some magnificent food. I hope you will have an unforgettable experience.

Before I start the article, I would like to point out that the Covid epidemic had devastating effects on Istanbul’s restaurant and entertainment industry. Some restaurants have closed temporarily, while others have closed completely. For this reason, I recommend you to call and check the latest situation before going to restaurants in Beyoglu.

I would like to emphasize that the image above is symbolic. Since I do not have the licensed photos of the restaurants below, I could not add their images to the article. However, you can easily access the photos of these restaurants from their official Instagram addresses.

1. Asmali Cavit

Asmali Cavit is one of the restaurants that has an important place in the tavern culture of Istanbul since the beginning of the 2000s. Turkish taverns are called “meyhane” and serve delicious Turkish appetizers and Turkish raki.

Its roasted spinach beet, marinated haddock, brain salad, and yaprak ciger (fried sliced liver) are among the most delicious options at Asmali Cavit. Also, you shouldn’t forget to taste Asmali Cavit’s little meatballs that should be dipped in its special sauce.

This is a family business which is managed by Mr. Cavit. His daughter and nieces help him run the place. It’s located right in the middle of Asmalimescit and opposite to Yakup 2 (another famous tavern) and the second floor of Asmali Cavit is really spacious.

2. Mikla

Mikla was opened to represent an “Istanbulite” restaurant in 2005 and it’s among the best restaurants in Istanbul with the view and modern presentation of food it offers. And the restaurant initiated a successful “New Anatolia Kitchen” concept and brings a new approach to how Anatolian food is cooked.

At Mikla, à la carte menu of 3 steps is served and the menu is composed of starters, main courses, and desserts. Moreover, a tasting menu of 7 steps is offered too. With its continually updated menus, Mikla maintains its high quality and delicious food standards.

Mehmet Gurs, the chef of the restaurant, has a Turkish father and Swedish mother and tries to create a blend of Scandinavian cooking techniques and Turkish Cuisine. You can try specialties like lamb heart, whole-wheat manti, and Iskenderun shrimp as well as light desserts such as cherry-goat cheese.

Mikla is located on Mesrutiyet Street, also known as “Pera”, in Beyoglu. The restaurant, which is a 10-minute walk from both Galata Tower and Taksim Square, is one of the best restaurants in Taksim.

3. Karakoy Lokantasi

Karakoy Lokantasi is located on Karakoy’s famous Kemankes Street and it’s both meyhane and restaurant that is open till 12:00 every night. It’s an ideal place to meet friends for drinks and have lunch or dinner.

The menu at Karakoy Lokantasi is really rich. You can find a dish for any taste, be it boiled tongue, smoked anchovy, fried chicken, fried lamb, fish or pork rib. It should be added that the traditional Turkish food menu of the restaurant is mouth watering.

Located close to both Sultanahmet and Taksim Square, the place is known as the best restaurant in Karakoy. The location of the restaurant is very close to the Galata Bridge, which connects Istanbul Old City and Beyoglu.

4. 360 Istanbul

360 Istanbul is located on Historical Misir Apartment in Beyoglu and it is included in the best restaurants of Istanbul with its location, the view it offers, and different cocktails.

360 Istanbul has been awarded numerous times thanks to its rich menu and it’s one of the prominent places where you can enjoy your cocktail while you can listen to great music and experience a marvellous Istanbul view.

In addition to its cocktails, you can try different dishes from local kitchens such as lentil meatballs, kibbeh, hummus or delicacies like roast duck with cherry and green risotto with sausage from the world kitchen.

One of the most important features of 360 Istanbul is that it turns into a club after 10:00 in the evening and has an important place in the nightlife of the city. The restaurant is very easy to find as it serves in one of the buildings on Istiklal Street.

5. Haci Abdullah

Haci Abdullah is the oldest place on our list of best restaurants in Taksim. The restaurant, which has existed since the 19th century, has been serving since 1958 at its present location. Located next to the Aga Mosque, very close to Taksim Square, the restaurant draws attention with its traditional Turkish dishes.

The chefs that were trained by Mr. Abdullah has managed the restaurant after his death and it’s one of the rare restaurants where you can find classical Ottoman dishes like pilaf with vermicelli, elbasan tava (a dish made with lamb and rice baked with yogurt and eggs) and desserts like hashish dessert.

Haci Abdullah is a place recommended by tour guides and gourmets of Istanbul due to its historical features. If you want to experience Ottoman cuisine, you can try this place.

6. 9 Ece Aksoy

9 Ece Aksoy has been in service for 2 years at Asmalimescit and with its original style, it quickly grabbed itself a place in the list of best restaurants in Beyoglu. 9 Ece Aksoy highlights the Mediterranean flavors of Turkish cuisine, which is a blend of different cultures.

Here, you can find unique dishes such as fried tomatoes with spicy sauce or rooster marinated with wine. Also, its wine menu is worth taking a look at too. We highly recommend 9 Ece Aksoy as it offers delicious food and original style.

7. Ficcin

Ficcin is a place where you can have breakfast and lunch. Therefore, it’s a popular place among workers. Ficcin, which is preferred for a short lunch break during the day, serves as a meyhane (Turkish tavern) in the evenings.

In its menu, you can try Circassian manti and Circassian chicken if you like Circassian food. Moreover, its appetizers made with fish are really delicious. Additionally, its unique delicacies such as Chinese chicken should not be missed, either.

You should also note that different set menus are offered for lunch meals at Ficcin. Overall, we can easily say it’s one of the best restaurants in Beyoglu and you can watch the passers-by on Istiklal Street while you enjoy your dinner at your table on Kallavi Street.

8. Zubeyir Ocakbasi

Zubeyir Ocakbasi is a family restaurant run by two brothers named Hamit and Zubeyir. Serving since the early 2000s, the restaurant stands out among the best meat restaurants in Istanbul.

Thanks to the 20 years of experience of its owners, Zubeyir Ocakbasi offers both traditional and original dishes. Zubeyir Ocakbasi is considered as one of the best restaurants near Taksim Square.

9. Havyore

Havyore is a word meaning “I am here” in the local language of the Black Sea. Hizir Chef founded Havyore after gaining experience in Istanbul’s food industry for 15 years. The restaurant represents the Black Sea (Northern coasts), which has an important place in Turkish cuisine.

In its menu, you can try beans, omelet with anchovies, pilaf, laz boregi (a dessert made with milk, vanilla, butter on layers of pastry), and baked rice pudding. And we can say that it has a lot of regulars who enjoy these Black Sea delicacies.

Located on Istiklal Street, which stretches between Taksim Square and Galata Tower, the restaurant offers its visitors examples of the Black Sea cuisine, famous for its seafood.

10. Leb-i Derya

Leb-i Derya means a place with a sea view in Turkish. As the name suggests, the restaurant has a magnificent view and is located on Kumbaraci Yokusu. Leb-i Derya has delicious appetizers such as Madame Nazen’s topik (chickpea and potato ball), marinated beetroot with cumin, mackerel with thyme, and gypsy salad.

Additionally, if you are a seafood lover, its warm starters are definitely worth trying. Stuffed baby calamari, grilled whole Ayvalik calamari, fish meatballs, and bean salad with mussels are some of the starters that you can taste. If you want fish as your main course, it depends on the season, but if you opt to have beef, you can go for rib steak at Leb-i Derya.

Leb-i Derya, which is very close to Galata Tower, is an ideal place for those who want to have a nice dinner in Beyoglu. I suggest you make a reservation before going as it is a very popular restaurant.

11. Munhasir Doner and Kebap

Munhasir Doner and Kebap is a restaurant recommended by Vedat Milor, one of Istanbul’s most famous gourmets. Located in the middle of Istiklal Street, the restaurant has a spacious courtyard on the second floor.

Delicious dishes at Munhasir Doner & Kebap have made this restaurant one of the must-visit places especially if you are a meat lover. And, therefore, it’s a highly popular place among both local and foreign visitors.

In its menu, you can find doner on pilaf, doner on a plate or Iskender kebab. Moreover, Adana kebab, Urfa kebab, and walnut kebab are some other items you can try here.

12. Nicole Restaurant

Nicole Restaurant is located on the terrace of Tomtom Suites Hotel and it offers a majestic view that includes the garden of the Embassy of Italy and even the Princes’ Islands. The restaurant derives its name from the manager of the building, Agnès Marthe Nicole, in which members of the Franciscans treated the sick. And there are 3 menu options in Nicole Restaurant, which are Discovery, Nicole, and Nicole 5.

Nicole Restaurant draws attention with the dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients and château style wines. The chef of the restaurant is Aylin Yazicioglu, who received her training in Paris and Spain.

Asparagus is included in all of its menus and calamari, duck and the fish of the day are some of the items in the menus and you can have a sweet ending with a delicious dessert. Please also note that Nicole Restaurant is open from 18:30 to 21:30 every day except for Sundays and Mondays.

Best Restaurants in Taksim for 2025 by Serhat Engul

The post Best Restaurants in Taksim (Beyoglu) Updated → 2025 appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

After visiting the Topkapi Palace in Sultanahmet, you have the chance to experience the Ottoman palace cuisine. The first two restaurants on the list offer options from the rich menu of Ottoman palace cuisine.

However, what Sultanahmet offers to its visitors is of course not limited to this. You can also taste delicious dishes such as meatballs, doner kebab and shish kebab, which are the famous flavors of Turkish cuisine around Sultanahmet.

Best Restaurants in and around Sultanahmet 2025

In the article on the best restaurants of Sultanahmet, there are luxurious places where you can have a nice dinner, as well as street restaurants where you can take a delicious meal break. Of course, when we say Sultanahmet, we include not only the restaurants around Hagia Sophia, but also the restaurants close to the Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar.

In addition, you will see the meatball and doner kebab restaurants preferred by Istanbulites in daily life in the following lines. Restaurants in this category include the districts of Istanbul Old City, such as Sirkeci, Eminonu and Beyazit, which are within 5-10 minutes’ walking distance from Sultanahmet.

I would like to emphasize that the image above is symbolic. Since I do not have the licensed photos of the restaurants below, I could not add their images to the article. However, you can easily access the photos of these restaurants from their official Instagram addresses.

1. Deraliye Restaurant

Deraliye Restaurant is a 35 years old establishment at Sultanahmet and it serves customers traditional Ottoman cuisines. Original recipes from the countries that influenced Ottoman kitchen are followed at Deraliye Restaurant. Therefore, you can find dishes from Central Asia, Iran, Anatolia, and the Balkans at this restaurant.

Traditional palace delicacies that were served to the Sultan, Valide Sultan (mother of the Sultan), and their guests would be prepared meticulously. And Deraliye Restaurant, as one of the few Ottoman restaurants in Istanbul, promises you a time travel to the Ottoman era kitchen.

At Deraliye, you can find stuffed grape leaves with cherries, stuffed cabbage with chestnuts and stuffed sudak fish from Mehmed the Conqueror era. As it’s one of the popular restaurants among both local and foreign visitors alike, Deraliye Restaurant finds a place in the list of best restaurants in Sultanahmet.

2. Matbah Restaurant

Matbah Restaurant is an expert on Ottoman kitchen, but it’s equally popular for its Turkish dishes. And the menu names at Matbah Restaurant have special ones such us Dersaadet or Istinbolin. (the old names of Istanbul)

In these menus, special examples of Ottoman kitchen, such as almond soup, lamb neck stew with plums, imam bayildi (eggplant stuffed with onion, garlic, and tomatoes), balli gemici boregi (pastry with cheese and honey), nirbac (lamb’s quarter and lamb meatballs with carrot stew), hibes (appetizer made of tahini, lemons, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper powder) can be found.

Additionally, special dishes made with beef, chicken, and fish are also included in the menu of Matbah Restaurant. In the a la carte menu, you can try cold and appetizing starters like baba ghanoush and stuffed calamari with shrimps.

Apart from traditional Ottoman cuisines, there are dessert options you can crown your meal with. Almond halva, rice pudding with gum, and baklava are the dessert options at Matbah Restaurant.

In Matbah’s summer and winter garden, you can have group meals. Moreover, you can listen to classical Turkish music played with oud while you dine on Friday and Saturdays.

Matbah Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Sultanahmet in many international guide books. You can find Matbah at Caferiye Street, right next to Hagia Sophia.

3. Hamdi Restaurant

Hamdi Restaurant is located next to Spice Bazaar. The establishment of the restaurant is based on a success story. Hamdi Arpaci, who started his career as a food vendor in Eminonu, the busiest area of ​​the Old City, opened a restaurant 7 years later. When this was not enough, Hamdi Restaurant moved to the 3-storey building it operates today.

The Deraliye and Matbah restaurants, which I introduced in the first lines, are located in the very center of Sultanahmet. However, you have to walk towards the sea (Near Galata Bridge) to reach the Hamdi Restaurant.

Hamdi is an ideal place for an afternoon lunch break after visiting historical monuments in Sultanahmet. Hamdi Restaurant is located right next to the Spice Bazaar, so you can go before or after a visit to the Spice Bazaar.

You can choose Hamdi for doner kebab, iskender kebab or lahmacun which are the most special tastes of Istanbul. I should also mention that the restaurant has a wonderful view of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.

4. Sultanahmet Koftecisi (Selim Usta)

Sultanahmet Koftecisi is a place identified with the neighborhood in the minds of locals. This almost a hundred year of establishment was founded by Mr. Mehmet Seracettin in 1926 and its first name was ‘Turan Kebapcisi’ when it was first opened on Divanyolu Street at Sultanahmet.

Meatball mixture is made of fine ground beef, a little bread crumbs, salt, and onion at this restaurant. And this special meatball has already so many fans and regulars. The meatballs served at this shop are accompanied by classical and delicious haricot bean salad and pilaf. Apart from meatballs, lamb on skewers is in the menu too.

Istanbulites who come to see the historical monuments in Sultanahmet do not return home without eating meatballs in this place. Because of the popularity of Sultanahmet Koftecisi, three restaurants with the same name are located side by side. If you want to go to the restaurant I have recommended, please make sure you see the “Selim Usta” sign.

5. Namli Rumeli Koftecisi

Namli Rumeli Koftecisi was opened in 1982 at Hocapasa in Sirkeci. If you wish to start your meal with soup, you can go for either lentil soup or yogurt soup. Also, home-made ayran (yogurt drink) at Namli Rumeli Koftecisi is really delicious and definitely worth trying.

This shop is famous for its meatballs, but you can opt to have chicken skewers or lamb skewers too. Moreover, haricot bean salad and classical salad at Namli Rumeli Koftecisi are equally tasty. And after your meal, you can have semolina halva as dessert.

6. Can Oba Restaurant

Can Oba Restaurant is an alcohol-free restaurant, located at Hocapasha Street and it’s a must-visit place if you are a seafood lover. It’s a small restaurant with only five tables, but it’s getting more and more popular.

Fish soup is made in an unconventional way here. Fish soup is made with seafood like calamari or sand mussel instead of fish. Additionally, in its menu, you can find such seafood choices as salmon salad, risotto with squid, clam on spinach bed, as well as kebab options.

The chef of the restaurant is Can Oba, who worked in Michelin star restaurants before. The dishes in the menu vary on daily basis and Can Oba Restaurant is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Istanbul by many gourmets and therefore, it finds itself a place in our list of the best restaurants in Sultanahmet.

Hodjapasha Cultural Center, which offers the best Dervish Show, is located on a street branching from Hocapasa Street. Before or after the show, you can have a dinner break at Can Oba, the best restaurant in Sirkeci (Istanbul Old City).

7. Seyhmus Kebap Salonu

Seyhmus Kebap Salonu is on Medrese Street at Cemberlitas, which is only 5 minutes walk from Sultanahmet. This place is a real deal if you want to have some good quality kebab such as Mardin kebab or Seyhmus’ special kebab options.

Kebab at Seyhmus Kebap Salonu is made of beef that is turned into ground beef with a knife instead of ground beef machine and your kebab is served with spicy ezme, bulgur pilaf, grilled tomatoes, grilled peppers, and onion with sumac.

This shabby looking restaurant is the place where you can eat any of the kebabs in its menu and you won’t regret doing so. Also, you can have tel kadayif (shredded phyllo) after your meal at Seyhmus Kebap Salonu.

8. Boris’in Yeri

Boris’in Yeri is nearby Kor Agop, one of the oldest taverns at Kumkapi and this place was opened in 1936. The founder and the former owner Mr. Boris passed away in 1996, but its food quality is still maintained.

The place is open from 06:30 to 22:30 every day and you can have breakfast here at any time of the day. You can have your egg in any way you like and kaymak (creamy dairy product made of cow milk) is produced in the shop. As its white cheese is really good too, taverns in the area buy cheese from Boris’in Yeri.

In its menu, important items of Turkish breakfast such as kavurma (fried or sautéed meat), sucuk (Turkish sausage), and salami as well as delicious sweet options like tahini, pekmez (condensed fruit syrup), and halva are worth trying.

This place is famous for its dairy products. Therefore, milky desserts like tavuk gogsu (Turkish milk pudding made with shredded chicken) and ekmek kadayifi (bread pudding) are highly recommended.

9. Guvenc Konyali

Guvenc Konyali has four branches in Istanbul. It includes a classical Konya delicacy, gumbo soup and other local food like etli ekmek (a pizza-like food) and tandir (roasted lamb). They are so good that they are as delicious as the ones in Konya. The most famous branch of Guven Konyali is the one at Sirkeci.

Konya is a city located in the very center of Turkey. Konya, the homeland of the world-famous philosopher and poet Rumi, is also one of the important cities representing Turkish cuisine. Guvenc Konyali, as its name suggests, comes from this city with a deep-rooted history.

10. Balikci Sabahattin

Balikci Sabahattin seafood restaurant is an old family business. As the fame of the restaurant spread, the restaurant moved to an old building constructed in 1927 after it was renovated by Armada Hotel at Cankurtaran.

Balikci Sabahattin knows both the sea and the seafood very well and in its special menu, you can have mussel pilaf, crunchy fried zucchini, and roasted anglerfish.

Balikci Sabahattin is known not only as the best fish restaurant of Sultanahmet but also in the Old City of Istanbul. Lonely Planet also recommends this seafood restaurant. Sabahattin is only a few minutes walk from the Four Seasons, the most popular 5-star hotel in Sultanahmet.

11. Donerci Sahin Usta

Donerci Sahin Usta is located at Beyazit and you can come across a long queue in front of the shop, especially at lunchtime. The shop was opened in 1979 and it is nearby Grand Bazaar too. Therefore, if you happen to be nearby the shop, you should definitely try Donerci Sahin Usta.

Donerci Sahin Usta has been in service for 40 years and its regulars never neglect to have doner there as it’s so good. Many people try to find this small restaurant with a map around the Grand Bazaar, as it is recommended in many international travel guides.

Sahin Usta (Chef Sahin) claims that he is the inventor of doner in pita in Turkey. After working in various shops before, he opened his small shop at Beyazit. Although he lost his life in 2010, the taste of doner in his shop is still marvelous.

Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet for 2025 by Serhat Engul

The post Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet (Old City) → 2025 appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

When you think of kebab in Turkey, the first cities that come to mind are Adana, Urfa and Gaziantep. Of course, it is necessary to experience the food culture of these cities in their original places. However, there are many famous chefs who came from these cities and established their own businesses in Istanbul. In this way, all the best examples of Turkish kebab are represented in Istanbul.

When you go to a kebab shop, the two types of kebab you will definitely see on the menu are Adana and Urfa. Adana kebab is spicy and Urfa kebab is plain. Apart from these two, you can see many different types of kebab. Among them, eggplant kebab, yoghurt kebab, iskender kebab and beyti kebab are the most popular ones.

Best Turkish Kebab Restaurants in Istanbul 2025

The best Turkish kebab restaurants in Istanbul are mostly found in historical districts. Most of the famous kebab restaurants are located in Fatih, which covers Sultanahmet and its surroundings. On the other hand, there are good restaurants in Beyoglu (aka Taksim) and on the shores of the Bosphorus.

The top 10 kebab restaurants in this article are located on the European side of Istanbul. On the other hand, the three restaurants at the end of the list are the best Turkish Kebab restaurants on the Asian Side of Istanbul.

I would like to emphasize that the image above is symbolic. Since I do not have the licensed photos of the restaurants below, I could not add their images to the article. However, you can easily access the photos of these restaurants from their official Instagram addresses.

1. Develi Kebap

Develi Kebab is one of the most famous restaurants in Turkey and has a history dating back to 1912. The founder of the restaurant, Arif Develi, is the creator of the pistachio kebab that I mentioned at the beginning of the article.

Develi Kebap represents Gaziantep, one of the most important cities of Turkish kebab. The restaurant, which moved from Gaziantep to Istanbul in 1966, became so successful that branches were opened all over Istanbul.

However, the Develi Kebab that I would recommend to you is located in the Samatya district of Istanbul’s Historical Peninsula. Located very close to Sultanahmet, Samatya Develi is one of the best Turkish kebab restaurants in Istanbul.

Apart from the classical dishes of Gaziantep kitchen, you can also find local cuisines from the Aegean, Mediterranean and Central Anatolia at Develi Restaurant. Develi Kebap is so good that it was chosen as one of the “Best 100 Restaurants in the World” by the Observer in 2006.

2. Gaziantep Burc Ocakbasi

Gaziantep Burc Ocakbasi was opened in 1988 and it’s located in Grand Bazaar. You can find delicious Gaziantep food at Gaziantep Burc Ocakbasi, where Eggplant Kebab and Adana Kebab are the two best sellers.

Gaziantep Burch Ocakbasi not only brought the most special Gaziantep dishes to Grand Bazaar, the heart of the Old City, but also has managed to be included in the “recommended kebab restaurants” lists in tourist guidebooks.

In addition to the delicacies from Gaziantep kitchen, you should definitely try stuffed dry eggplant and stuffed dry pepper as well as kunefah at Gaziantep Burc Ocakbasi.

3. Umut Ocakbasi

Umut Ocakbasi has been in service on the backstreets of Beyoglu since 1976. It’s where fruits and vegetables are supplied daily and the meat is processed in semi-auto machines prior to cooking. Therefore, some appetizers like gavurdagi salad (tomato salad with cumin and walnut) are always fresh at Umut Ocakbasi.

Some other appetizers you can find at Umut Ocakbasi are eggplant ezme (ezme is a tomato dip with pepper, onions, olive oil and some other ingredients), eggplant salad, pepper with tomato. And these appetizers go very well with your kebab.

Moreover, turnip juice, an indispensable drink that goes perfectly with kebab is brought from Adana in special barrels. Umut Ocakbasi is among the best Turkish kebab restaurants around Taksim, one of the most touristic places in Istanbul.

4. Oz Kilis Kebap ve Lahmacun

Oz Kilis Kebab and Lahmacun, as the name suggests, represent two of the most delicious dishes of Turkish cuisine. The restaurant, which serves special kebab varieties that are not available everywhere, is also famous for its lahmacun.

It’s located in Fatih, a historical district of Istanbul, and you are recommended to try oruk kebab (a different version of kibbeh), shiveydiz (stewed lamb with fresh green onions and garlic in a yogurt sauce), lebeniye (Turkish soup with meatballs), and stuffed dried eggplant.

Don’t forget to order “Gavurdagi Salad” alongside your main course. Because this restaurant is also famous for this Turkish salad that goes very well with kebab. You should also try amazingly delicious ayran (yoghurt drink) with foam served in a copper glass alongside your kebab.

5. Adana Ocakbasi

Adana Ocakbasi is located at Kurtulus neighborhood in Sisli and its motto is “The right address for kebab”. Here, you can have your kebab and appetizers, cacik (Turkish yogurt with cucumbers and herbs), and eggplant salad with yogurt.

The tail fat and spices used in Adana kebab is totally well-balanced at this restaurant  and some other best options at Adana Ocakbasi are rib shish kebab and beef shish kebab. Lastly, appetizers menu is quite rich and delicious at Adana Ocakbasi too.

Sisli district, where the restaurant is located, has come to the fore among the best places to stay in Istanbul in recent years. If you are staying in neighborhoods with 5-star hotels such as Taksim Square, Besiktas and Levent, this Turkish kebab restaurant is very close to you.

6. Kasibeyaz

Kasibeyaz stands out among the luxury kebab restaurants of Istanbul. There are a lot of kebab options at Kasibeyaz, such as Ali Nazik, pistachio kebab, garlic kebab, onion kebab, and Abugannus (grilled eggplant with yogurt, olive oil, and chili pepper).

Kasibeyaz stands out with its Gaziantep food and kebab. Moreover, butter, tulum cheese (Turkish goat cheese), and pita bread are served free of charge.

You are highly recommended to have yuvalama soup (a Turkish soup that includes meatballs, chickpeas, tomato, and bulgur) and Gaziantep style lahmacun before your main course. And after your meal, you should try a famous Gaziantep dessert named katmer (qatlama).

Kasibeyaz is a chain restaurant with many branches like Develi at the top of the list. The Florya branch of Kasibeyaz restaurant (near the old airport) is located very close to those staying in big hotels in Atakoy and Bakirkoy districts.

7. Yuzevler Kebap

Yuzevler Kebap has branches in popular districts of Istanbul such as Etiler, Maslak and Goztepe. Yuzevler Kebap represents the city of Adana, which is famous for its meat dishes in Turkey. It’s one of the first places that comes to mind when you want to eat Adana kebab that is made of knife-cut ground beef. Also, you can taste food that is cooked in the oven such as Arap tava or wing tava.

Yuzevler Kebap offers a rich variety of salad options like tablaci (tabbouleh salad without bulgur) salad, harman (salad made of broccoli, cauliflower, peas, carrot, chickpeas, beans, olive oil, and spices) or the specialty of Yuzevler Kebap, “Yuzevler salad”. Moreover, chef’s special sushi kebab is an interesting choice if you want to go for an alternative. As starters, you are recommended to try Adana style small lahmacun or boiled stuffed meatballs.

8. Emin Baba Durum Evi

Emin Baba Durumevi became popular in a short time after it was opened as a small shop in 1999. Located in Sisli, one of the most popular business and accommodation districts of Istanbul today, Emin Baba is among the best Turkish kebab restaurants in Istanbul.

You can have really delicious Adana and Urfa kebab at Emin Baba Durum Evi. Kebap is cooked in coal and oak coal and the taste of kebab is always great here. Kebabs are served wrapped in lavash bread (soft and flat bread). And the good news is if you order your food on a plate, salad, spicy ezme, eggplant ezme, and mixed pickles are served free of charge.

9. Hamdi Restoran

Hamdi Restaurant is located right next to the Spice Bazaar and is very close to both Sultanahmet and Taksim. Hamdi Arpaci, who moved to Istanbul from Sanliurfa in the end of 1960s, started the business as a street vendor in Eminonu now owns the five floors of the building where he serves his customers.

There are 17 different kebab types in Hamdi Restoran’s menu such as Birecik kebab and opium poppy kebab. As for appetizers, you can find haydari (thick yogurt with garlic and dill), hummus, ezme salad, and eggplant in tomato sauce.

Walnut baklava, pistachio kanafeh, carrot-like sliced baklava, square baklava, sobiyet (dessert filled with cream, which is made from milk and semolina, and nuts), Hamdi’s special, and katmer are among the rich dessert menu at Hamdi Restoran. You can watch the Golden Horn and Bosphorus view while you finish your meal and drink Turkish tea accompanied by baklava.

In order to get to the Hamdi Restaurant from Sultanahmet, you have two choices. You can either walk down the hill from Hagia Sophia (by following the tram line) or you can take the tram from Sultanahmet to Eminonu. If you leave from Sultanahmet Tram Station, there will be Gulhane, Sirkeci and Eminonu tram stops on your way. Hamdi Restaurant is located just a few minutes walk from Eminonu Tram Station. You may find the restaurant next to Spice Bazaar.

10. Emin Ustanin Yeri

Emin Ustanin Yeri has been serving his customers at its shop in Karagumruk. The meat that is used to make kebab is brought from Afyon and Balikesir and it’s chopped manually with a big knife. Emin Usta’s shop is a shabby but a famous one. Ayran (yoghut drink) made from ‘’Eris Yogurtlari’’, the natural yogurt maker of Fatih neighborhood, is also a popular choice to drink alongside kebab.

The eastern side of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula has popular districts such as Sultanahmet and Eminonu. However, to go to Emin Ustanin Yeri, you have to go to the west side of the Historic Peninsula. The area where this restaurant is located is close to historical monuments such as Yavuz Selim Mosque, Fethiye Museum and Kariye Mosque.

11. Ciya Kebap

Ciya Kebab is located in Kadikoy, on the Asian side of Istanbul. You can find examples of Turkey’s most delicious dishes at this restaurant, which I visit very often and highly recommend.

Ciya Restaurant is so popular that it has three branches on the same street. Among these restaurants, the restaurant named “Ciya Sofrasi” offers examples of local Anatolian home cooking. You can eat delicious Turkish kebabs at two other restaurants called “Ciya Kebap”.

The most important feature of Ciya Kebap is that it represents Adana, Antep and Urfa, which are famous for their kebabs. But not only that, it also gives you the chance to taste Anatolia’s best salads and appetizers alongside kebab.

You can find dozens of varieties of kebab in the restaurant, which has a very wide menu. Ciya Restaurant is listed as the best kebab restaurant on the Asian side of Istanbul in many international travel guides.

12. Canak Kebap

Canak Kebap is a restaurant where you can taste the local dishes of Gaziantep and it was opened at Acibadem in 2014. Adana style kebab is named as “Canak Acili Kebap” in this restaurant. And it’s a special kind of kebab you can only find here. It’s a type of kebab that’s rolled in a pita bread. You should also note that tulum cheese, butter, green olives, radish, and rocket are served free of charge at Canak Kebap ve Katmer.

It will be a tough challenge to make a choice among many great kebab options such as oruk kebab (kebab made of lamb and veal) or Halep Ishi (Adana kebab served with thin skewers). And famous Gaziantep pistachios are served at the end of your meal in this restaurant.

Canak Kebap is located in Kadikoy, the most popular district of the Asian side. However, its location is not as central as the previous Ciya Kebap. If you want to go here, you have to visit Acibadem district, which is famous for its shopping malls.

Best Turkish Kebab in Istanbul for 2025 by Serhat Engul

The post 12 Best TURKISH KEBAB Restaurants in Istanbul (2025) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.

There are two versions of kokorec: Istanbul style and Izmir style. Izmir style kokorec is sliced after it’s grilled but it is not chopped. Instead, the meat is cut into small pieces with a knife. Istanbul style kokorec, on the other hand, is chopped thoroughly and mixed with tomato.

Best Kokorec Places in Istanbul 2025

The best places to eat kokorec in Istanbul are usually found in the historical places of the city. There are delicious kokorec shops in districts such as Eminonu (near Sultanahmet), Beyoglu (near Taksim Square), Ortakoy, Kadikoy and Uskudar.

In this article, you can find the best kokorec places on the European side of Istanbul under the first 7 titles. On the other hand, in the last 6 titles, there are the best kokorec places on the Asian side.

I would like to emphasize that the image above is symbolic. Since I do not have the licensed photos of the restaurants below, I could not add their images to the article. However, you can easily access the photos of these restaurants from their official Instagram addresses.

1. Sampiyon Kokorec

Sampiyon Kokorec is the symbol of kokorec in Beyoglu and it still welcomes its regular and new customers in its place at Fish Market. Sampiyon Kokorec has numerous branches all over Istanbul and it aims at opening more branches as part of its network growth strategy.

The story of Sampiyon Kokorec dates back to 1962 when a small shop at Beyoglu Fish Market was opened by two brothers and Sampiyon Kokorec still maintains high quality in its every branch.

Kokorec is cooked on specially designed grills that distribute the heat evenly and no extra fat is added to meat here. However, a special spice mixture is added to meat at Sampiyon Kokorec.

In addition to kokorec, you can find Turkish sausage sandwich, mackerel, kelle paca (sheep’s head and foot soup), intestines, stuffed and fried mussels, and lentil soup. You can find Sampiyon Kokorec at the fish market on Istiklal Street in Beyoglu. (next to Cicek Passage)

2. Mercan Kokorec

Mercan Kokorec opened its first branch in 1960 in Buyukada (Princes’ Islands), a popular tourist destination today. Mercan Kokorec has been so successful that its branches have spread all over Istanbul, but the most visited kokorec shop is the one in Beyoglu Fish Market.

Mercan Kokorec’s menu includes delicious kokorec options and stuffed mussels. Mercan Kokorec has added fresh fish options to its menu lately and it is one of the most popular kokorec places in Beyoglu (aka Taksim), Istanbul.

Both Mercan and Sampiyon kokorec places are located in the historical Beyoglu Fish Market. You can see the Fish Market on your right as you walk from Taksim Square towards Galata Tower (on the Istiklal Street).

3. Ozzie’s Kokorec

Ozzie’s Kokorec has been serving since 1968 in Beyoglu, near Asmali Mescit, famous for its taverns. When you are at Ozzie’s Kokorec, you can watch your meal being cooked before your eyes.

Kokorec and sweetbread meet here and you can have it as 2 or 3 rings portion. Moreover, in addition to kokorec, you can find special Turkish sausage and hot dog in Ozzie’s Kokorec’s menu.

4. Ozen Kokorec

Ozen Kokorec is located on Dereboyu Street, right across Ortakoy’s famous waffle and kumpir (baked potato with fillings) shops. It was opened in 1972 and has been in service since then. Apart from kokorec cooked on a grill, you can have kumru (Turkish sandwich with tomato, cheese and sausage), meatballs, stuffed mussel, and fried mussel.

Ozen Kokorec is located in Ortakoy, one of the most beautiful districts of the Bosphorus shores. Ortakoy is a place where Istanbul’s most luxurious hotels and nightclubs are located.

On the other hand, you don’t have to go to these luxury establishments to enjoy Ortakoy. You can take your sandwich from Ozen Kokorec, one of the best places to eat kokorec in Istanbul, and eat it in Ortakoy Square while watching the Bosphorus view.

5. Kral Kokorec

Kral Kokorec is located in Eminonu and it stands out as the best kokorec place in the Istanbul Old City. You can have Izmir style kokorec at Kral Kokorec, which has become famous for its delicious kokorec.

Kral Kokorec is located on the street leading from the iconic Great Post Office building in Sirkeci to Spice Bazaar. On this street, you can see not only kokorec but also shops serving delicious doner kebab.

6. Gala Kokorec

Gala Kokorec was founded by someone who started his career as a hawker in Eminonu, one of the most vibrant districts of Istanbul, and today it has become a kokorec restaurant chain with 14 branches. Although Gala Kokorec has branches in districts such as Besiktas and Uskudar, the most popular one is the shop in Eminonu.

Gala Kokorec is located on the same street as the previous Kral Kokorec. Neighboring the very distinctive Great Post Office building, Gala Kokorec is the best place to eat kokorec around Sultanahmet.

Sultanahmet is a place famous for its historical monuments such as Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. However, to find the best street food places in Istanbul, you need to go to Sirkeci and Eminonu, which are 10 minutes from Sultanahmet.

7. Kokorecciler Krali Zulfu Usta

Kokorecciler Krali Zulfu Usta is located at the entrance of Mercan Yokusu in Beyazit and you can often see kokorec lovers queuing up outside the shop. If you wish to have a quick bite while standing, you should definitely visit Kokorecciler Krali Zulfu Usta.

Despite long queues outside its shop, Kokorecciler Krali Zulfu Usta is quick at preparing orders. Here, kokorec is cooked on a wood fire and it’s served with tomato and pepper in a sandwich.

Kokorecciler Krali Zulfu Usta is located in Beyazit district, where Istanbul’s hidden flavors are located. This district, in which the Grand Bazaar is located, is also home to the famous doner kebab shop “Donerci Sahin Usta” as well as “Gaziantep Burc Ocakbasi”, one of the best Turkish kebab restaurants in Istanbul.

8. Reks Bufe

Reks Bufe is located in Kadikoy, which is the most touristic district of the Asian side. Kokorec is usually served as a sandwich in half or quarter loaf of bread. However, Reks Bufe goes a little beyond the tradition and serves kokorec in a casserole or wrapped in lavash bread.

At the beginning of the article, I mentioned that kokorec is a food that is associated with nightlife in Istanbul. Reks Bufe is also located next to Kadife Street in Kadikoy, which is famous for its bars.

9. Gunes Kokorec

Gunes Kokorec is the place for both delicious and mild lamb kokorec and it’s located in Uskudar. Gunes Kokorec was opened nearby inter-city bus offices in Uskudar and has been there since 1974.

Gunes Kokorec is a small and shabby place where kokorec is served in bread toasted on the grill. This place is one of the place that boasts regular customers. It’s at the same time one of the best kokorec places on the Asian side of Istanbul.

10. Cengelkoy Kokoreccisi

Cengelkoy Kokoreccisi is one of the most famous kokorec places in Istanbul and you can see a queue outside the shop at any time of the day. This place draws attention with its hygiene and delicious kokorec.

Cengelkoy Kokoreccisi was opened in 2007 and it brings kokorec from Balikesir and Izmir. Moreover, the thyme used at Cengelkoy Kokoreccisi is brought from Canakkale, while the pepper is brought from Kahramanmaras and Gaziantep.

Kokorec is cooked in oak coal and it’s served in bread cooked in a stone oven. You can also have stuffed mussel at Cengelkoy Kokoreccisi. This place has only one branch in order to maintain its high service and food quality.

11. Kokoretto

Kokoretto is located in Kadikoy and if you wish, you can go for Izmir style kokorec here. Apart from sandwich, you can also have your kokorec served on a plate. Additionally, burgers are included in Kokretto’s menu.

You should note that Kokoretto is very busy daytime and the shop is closed at 8 p.m. Kokoretto is one of the places that foreign tourists show high interest. Therefore, it’s common to come across the images from Kokoretto on international blog sites. Thanks to its fame both in Turkey and abroad, Kokoretto stands out as one of the best kokorec places in Kadikoy, Istanbul.

12. Kokorecci Adem Usta

Kokorecci Adem Usta is located next to the Kadikoy Ferry Port, which is the busiest spot on the Asian Side of Istanbul. Kokorecci Adem Usta is one of the rare places where you can eat really delicious Izmir style kokorec and it offers quarter and half sandwich, wrap kokorec or kokorec on a plate.

In order to get to Kadikoy, you can go to Eminonu Ferry Terminal from Sultanahmet and cross the Bosphorus by ferry in 20 minutes. Likewise, you can walk to Karakoy Ferry Terminal from Taksim and reach Kadikoy in 20 minutes.

13. Beylerbeyi Pasa Kokorec Iskembe

Beylerbeyi Pasa Kokorec Iskembe is famous for thick tripe, trotter, and sheep brain soup and it’s located in Cengelkoy. In this place, kokorec is served as the main course and lamb kokorec is served in a casserole. It is served as chopped in big pieces with grilled pepper and tomato.

You can find any kind of giblets at Beylerbeyi Pasa Kokorec Iskembe, be it lamb brain salad, liver, sweetbread or kokorec. As you can tell from the menu, this place is not for everyone. But if you are a meat lover, you will love this place.

Beylerbeyi and Cengelkoy are two neighboring districts that tourists visiting Istanbul often miss. There are great Turkish restaurants in these districts, as well as historical monuments such as Beylerbeyi Palace.

Best Kokorec in Istanbul for 2025 by Serhat Engul

The post Best Kokorec Places in Istanbul (Updated → 2025) appeared first on Istanbul Clues.