Do you want to know all about the best Street food in Istanbul? If yes, then this article is for you. We will list all the popular Turkish street foods that are available in many restaurants and cafes as well.
Istanbul’s street food is a culinary adventure, from spicy kebabs to sweet Baklava it caters to all tastes. Join us as we take you on a tasty tour of the best street food in Istanbul!
Lahmacun
Lahmacun consists of a thin, crispy flatbread that we top with a mixture of minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and spices. We typically roll it up with fresh vegetables and a squeeze of lemon, and we usually bake the dough in a wood-fired oven to give it a crisp texture.
A traditional way to enjoy lahmacun is with a glass of ayran, a refreshing yogurt-based drink.
Where to find Lahmacun in Istanbul?
Street vendors and small shops sell freshly baked lahmacun throughout Istanbul.
Many local restaurants offer delicious Lahmacun, some of them are:
- Halil Lahmacun in Istanbul Kadikoy has earned a strong reputation for serving some of the best lahmacun in Istanbul. It’s praised for its high-quality ingredients, authentic flavors, and consistent quality. (Location)
- Öz Kilis Kebap ve Lahmacun Salonu prides itself on delivering authentic flavors, staying true to traditional recipes from Kilis, a region known for its distinctive take on Turkish dishes. (Location)
- Tatbak Nisantasi is known for its thin, crispy crust and the flavorful topping of minced meat, vegetables, and spices. (Location)
Kumpir
Kumpir is a beloved Turkish street food. It is essentially a baked potato with a crispy skin and a fluffy interior, stuffed and topped with various ingredients.
The potatoes are baked until the skin becomes crispy and the inside turns soft and fluffy. Then, the potato interior is mixed with butter and shredded cheese.
Next, it is topped with many toppings such as corn, salad, peas, olives, ketchup, etc.
Where to find Kumpir in Istanbul?
Street vendors and small shops sell freshly baked Kumpir throughout Istanbul.
Many local restaurants offer delicious Kumpir, some of them are:
- BEBEK WAFFLE & KUMPIR is a well-known restaurant in Istanbul. Remember that the large baked potatoes are filled with butter and cheese and then topped with a variety of ingredients such as olives, corn, sausages, peas, pickles, and more. (Location )
- PATATOS has gained a reputation for offering a variety of delicious meals that are both satisfying and affordable. One of the specialties of PATATOS is kumpir. (Location )
- ORTAKOYLU KUMPIR EVI is famous for its delicious and generously portioned kumpir. The Kumpir is served fresh and piping hot. ( Location )
Simit
Simit is a popular street food in Istanbul, Turkey. It is a round bread covered in sesame seeds, and it tastes a bit sweet and crunchy. It’s usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack. You can eat it plain or with cheese, olives, or jam.
Where to find Simit in Istanbul?
You can find Simit almost everywhere in Istanbul. Street vendors sell it from red pushcarts all over the city. They often shout “Simit! Simit!” to get your attention.
You can buy simit in bakeries and cafes as well. Some famous places to try simit in Istanbul are Galata Simitçisi and Tarihi Karaköy Simitçisi.
- Galata Simitçisi is a beloved bakery in Istanbul. The bakery has an inviting aroma and warm, sesame-covered simit. Galata Simitçisi is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience an authentic taste of Istanbul’s food scene. ( Location )
- Cihangir Tarihi Simit Fırını is a famous bakery in Istanbul. Located in the charming Cihangir neighborhood, this historic bakery has been serving delicious, sesame-covered simit for generations. The bakery is a cherished spot for locals and tourists because of its authenticity. (Location )
Döner Kebab (Rotating Kebab)
Döner Kebab is a popular Turkish dish made from seasoned meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat, often lamb, beef, or chicken, is sliced thinly as it cooks and served in various ways. For example in a sandwich, wrap, or on a plate with rice and salad.
The unique cooking method gives Döner Kebab its distinctive flavor and juicy texture. It is a beloved street food in Turkey and has gained popularity worldwide.
Where to find Doner kebab in Istanbul?
You can find Döner Kebab at many street vendors, restaurants, and food stalls, making it a convenient and tasty meal option for people on the go.
- Dönerci Şahin Usta is known for its exceptional döner kebabs.This place has earned a reputation for serving delicious, high-quality meat wrapped in fresh bread or served with rice. Döner Şahin Usta offers an authentic taste of Turkish street food that attracts locals and tourists alike. ( Location )
- Aksoy Döner Located in the heart of Istanbul, Aksoy Döner is famous for its high-quality, flavorful meat and fresh ingredients. Whether served in a pita, on a plate with rice, or as a wrap, Aksoy Döner offers a delicious and authentic taste of Istanbul’s street food. (Location )
- Bayramoğlu Döner is a renowned eatery in Istanbul, famous for its exceptional döner kebab. Bayramoğlu Döner is celebrated for its high-quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods. It is a must-visit spot. ( Location)
Koçan Mısır & Közde Mısır (Boiled & Grilled Corn)
Koçan Mısır (Boiled Corn) and Közde Mısır (Grilled Corn) are iconic street foods in Istanbul, these simple yet delicious snacks are available almost year-round.
Vendors typically keep the corn warm in large pots and serve it after boiling fresh corn on the cob in salted water until the kernels become tender and juicy. Then, people usually eat the corn straight off the cob and often season it with a sprinkle of salt.
However, Közde Mısır is grilled over hot coals, giving it a smoky flavor and crispy kernels. The Vendors rotate the corn on the cob over the grill until it’s evenly cooked, then serve it hot, usually with a sprinkle of salt or a brush of butter. The grilling process caramelizes some of the corn’s natural sugars, adding a depth of flavor that complements the smoky aroma.
In Istanbul, you can find vendors selling Koçan Mısır and Közde Mısır in busy areas, such as near the Bosphorus, along Istiklal Street, or in public squares like Taksim.
Where to find Koçan Mısır & Közde Mısır (Boiled & Grilled Corn) in Istanbul?
Koçan Mısır & Közde Mısır (Boiled & Grilled Corn) can be found in every corner of Istanbul but, a few spots stand out because of their ambiance and overall quality experience.
Here are some of the best places to enjoy Koçan Mısır (Boiled Corn) and Közde Mısır (Grilled Corn) in the city:
- Ortaköy is famous for its street food, including grilled and boiled corn. The vendors here are known for serving fresh and well-prepared corn, which you can enjoy while overlooking the Bosphorus and the iconic Ortaköy Mosque.
- Sultanahmet Square: Landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque surround Sultanahmet Square. Vendors here offer perfectly cooked corn, which you can savor as you take in the rich history and architecture of the area.
- Taksim Square and Istiklal Street are bustling with activity and lined with street vendors. Here, you can find some of the best-grilled corn. The vendors here are seasoned experts, ensuring that the corn is grilled to perfection.
Balık Ekmek (Grilled Fish Sandwich)
Balık Ekmek, which translates to “fish sandwich” in Turkish, is one of Istanbul’s most popular street foods. It has deep roots in Istanbul’s history, particularly tied to the city’s maritime culture. This simple yet delicious dish is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
The preparation of the fish sandwich is straightforward but flavorful. Freshly caught fish, typically mackerel or similar types, are cleaned, seasoned with salt, and grilled to perfection. The grilling process imparts a smoky flavor to the fish, which is then placed in a half-loaf of crusty white bread. The sandwich is often garnished with simple ingredients such as slices of onion, lettuce, and sometimes a squeeze of lemon juice.
Where to find Balık Ekmek (Grilled Fish Sandwich) in Istanbul?
- Eminönü Balık Ekmek Boats: The iconic boats near the Galata Bridge are famous for serving Balık Ekmek. Although it’s a touristy spot, the experience of eating fresh fish straight from the grill on a boat is unforgettable. (Location )
- Derya Balık is a popular local spot known for its fresh and well-prepared Balık Ekmek. It’s a bit less touristy than Eminönü, making it a great choice for a more authentic experience. ( Location)
- Balıkçı Sabahattin: A bit more upscale, Balıkçı Sabahattin is a classic seafood restaurant in the heart of Istanbul. They serve a delicious Balık Ekmek, along with a variety of other seafood dishes. (Location)
Börek
Börek is a type of filled pastry made from thin, flaky dough called yufka, similar to phyllo dough. The dough is usually layered and filled with various ingredients, then baked or fried to achieve a crispy texture. The versatility of börek lies in its fillings, which can range from savory to slightly sweet.
Where to find Börek in Istanbul?
- Tarihi Sarıyer Börekçisi: Established in 1895, this iconic shop is famous for its crispy and flavorful Börek. The spinach and cheese varieties are especially popular. (Location)
- Emirgan Sütiş serves a variety of Börek, with the su böreği (water Börek) being a standout. Enjoy it with a side of fresh Turkish tea. (Location )
- Çiya Sofrası: This beloved spot in Kadıköy is renowned for its diverse menu of traditional Turkish dishes, including unique regional Börek varieties you might not find elsewhere. (Location )
Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels)
The heart of Midye Dolma is the mussel, which is carefully cleaned and opened. The stuffing typically includes rice cooked with onions, pine nuts, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, and sometimes currants. The mixture is then packed into the shell of the mussel, and the stuffed mussels are steamed until tender.
The popularity of Midye Dolma lies in its simplicity and the perfect balance of flavors. The mussels are tender and succulent, the rice is flavorful and aromatic, and the spices add depth without overpowering the natural taste of the mussels.
Where to find Midye Dolma ( Stuffed Mussels) in Istanbul?
The best Midye Dolma is often found in the bustling neighborhoods of Istanbul, such as Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş.
These areas are known for their vibrant street food scenes, where locals and tourists alike indulge in this tasty snack.
Some vendors have been selling Midye Dolma for decades, and each has its secret recipe, passed down through generations.
- Midyeci Ahmet (Beşiktaş): Midyeci Ahmet is one of the most famous names when it comes to Midye Dolma in Istanbul. They serve freshly made, flavorful stuffed mussels that are a hit among their customers. ( Location )
- Karaköy Güllüoğlu: This place is famous for its Baklava but, they serve delicious Midye Dolma too. It’s a good stop if you’re exploring the Karaköy area. (Location )
Maraş Dövme Dondurması
This ice cream originates from Kahramanmaraş in Turkey and is made from a few simple ingredients: goat’s milk, sugar, and salep (a flour made from the tubers of wild orchids). The salep gives Maraş Dövme Dondurması its stretchy, chewy texture that sets it apart from other types of ice cream.
One of the most memorable aspects of Maraş Dövme Dondurması is the experience of buying it from street vendors. Vendors often wear traditional Ottoman attire and use long metal paddles to knead and stretch the ice cream. They’re known for their playful interactions with customers, using the sticky texture of the ice cream to trick people by pulling it away just as they’re about to grab it.
- Mado ( Multiple Locations): Mado is one of the most famous chains specializing in Maraş Dövme Dondurması. They have locations all over Istanbul, including in Taksim, Sultanahmet, and Kadıköy. Their ice cream is made using traditional methods and offers a variety of flavors.
- Dondurmacı Yaşar Usta ( Multiple Locations including Bakırköy and Kadıköy): Known for their natural ingredients and traditional methods, Dondurmacı Yaşar Usta is a favorite among locals. They offer unique and creative flavors, including fruit-based and classic options. (Location)
- Damla Dondurma: Damla Dondurma is another great place to enjoy traditional Turkish ice cream. They’re known for their high-quality ingredients and their dedication to traditional methods. (Location)
Now the next time when you go to Istanbul and wander through the city’s bustling markets and lively neighborhoods, you will know all about the delicious foods to try and make sure to embrace the experience.
The city’s street food is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Istanbul’s soul, one delicious bite at a time.
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