Istanbul Foodie’s Paradise: Must-Try Dishes and Where to Find Them

Hey, foodies! If you're ready to embark on a flavor-packed adventure in Istanbul, you've come to the right place. This city is like a massive, delicious buffet where every dish tells a story. So, grab your forks and get ready to dig into some seriously scrumptious eats!

ISTANBUL

Kyle V.

8/25/20243 min read

1. Doner Kebab: The Classic Favorite

First up, you’ve got to try the Doner Kebab. This is the ultimate street food classic—succulent meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, sliced thin, and served in pita or wrap with fresh veggies. It's a flavor explosion you don’t want to miss!

Where to Find It: Check out Sultanahmet Köftecisi in Sultanahmet for a tasty experience.

Estimated Cost: $5 to $8 (₺90 to ₺150).

2. Baklava: Sweetness Overload

Baklava is like a sweet hug for your taste buds. This flaky pastry filled with nuts and drenched in honey is the ultimate dessert indulgence. It’s rich, sweet, and absolutely irresistible.

Where to Find It: Head to Karadaş Baklava for some of the best baklava in town.

Estimated Cost: $3 to $6 (₺55 to ₺110) per piece.

3. Simit: The Turkish Bagel

Looking for a snack on the go? Simit is the way to go. This sesame-crusted bread ring is perfect for breakfast or a quick munch. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—just the way you want it!

Where to Find It: Try Simit Sarayı for a fresh and tasty simit.

Estimated Cost: $1 to $2 (₺20 to ₺35).

4. Meze Platter: A Taste of Everything

If you’re in the mood for variety, a Meze Platter is your best bet. This assortment of small dishes includes hummus, baba ganoush, stuffed grape leaves, and more. It’s like a little party on your plate!

Where to Find It: Meze by Lemon Tree in Beyoğlu serves up some delicious meze plates.

Estimated Cost: $10 to $15 (₺185 to ₺275).

5. Kumpir: The Stuffed Potato

Kumpir is like the Turkish take on a loaded baked potato. It’s huge, fluffy, and packed with all sorts of toppings like cheese, sausages, and olives. It's comfort food at its finest!

Where to Find It: Kumpirci Şeref Usta is a great spot to get your kumpir fix.

Estimated Cost: $5 to $8 (₺90 to ₺150).

6. Pide: Turkish Pizza

Pide is like a Turkish pizza but with a unique twist. The dough is shaped into a boat and topped with a variety of ingredients like minced meat, cheese, and veggies. It’s baked to perfection and super tasty!

Where to Find It: Pideci Ahmet in Fatih serves up some of the best pide in the city.

Estimated Cost: $7 to $12 (₺130 to ₺220).

7. Turkish Delight: Sweet Treats Galore

Turkish Delight, or lokum, is a must-try sweet treat. It comes in a variety of flavors like rose, lemon, and pomegranate, and it’s chewy, sugary goodness in every bite.

Where to Find It: Haci Bekir is the place to go for authentic Turkish delight.

Estimated Cost: $5 to $10 (₺90 to ₺185) per box.

8. Çorba: Heartwarming Soup

Çorba, or Turkish soup, is a cozy choice for any time of day. Popular varieties include lentil soup and yogurt soup, both hearty and satisfying.

Where to Find It: Çorbacı Yavuz in Beyoğlu is known for its delicious çorba.

Estimated Cost: $4 to $7 (₺75 to ₺130).

9. Döner Pizza: Fusion Flavor

For a twist on traditional pizza, try Döner Pizza. It combines the classic pizza with döner kebab toppings, blending Italian and Turkish flavors into one epic dish.

Where to Find It: Dönerci Ali Baba in Taksim is a top spot for döner pizza.

Estimated Cost: $8 to $12 (₺150 to ₺220).

10. Ayran: The Ultimate Refreshment

Ayran is the Turkish take on yogurt drink—refreshing, tangy, and perfect for washing down all those delicious dishes. It’s like a cool breeze for your taste buds!

Where to Find It: Grab a glass at almost any local restaurant or café.