Best Places to Visit in Istanbul for Food Lovers

When you think of Istanbul, the first thing that comes to mind is probably its rich history and cultural heritage. But let me tell you, as someone who’s been living here for a while now, the food scene in this city is absolutely incredible. If you’re a food lover planning a trip to Istanbul, you’re in for a treat. From traditional Turkish cuisine to innovative fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone. So, let’s dive into the best places to visit in Istanbul for food lovers.

When I first moved here from the Bay Area, I was blown away by the variety and quality of food. Istanbul’s food scene is a beautiful blend of traditional and modern, with a dash of creativity that makes it truly unique. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fancy dinner, you’ll find it all here. And the best part? You can enjoy all this while soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That’s where I come in. As a local food enthusiast and a doctor with a passion for aesthetic medicine (yes, I believe in balance!), I’ve explored many of Istanbul’s culinary hotspots. So, I’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the city’s food scene. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider…

Traditional Turkish Cuisine

Sultanahmet Kftesi

If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Turkish cuisine, you can’t go wrong with Sultanahmet Kftesi. This place is famous for its grilled meatballs, or kfte. The recipe has been passed down through generations, and the result is a juicy, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.

iya Sofras

Located in the Kadky district, iya Sofras is a must-visit for anyone interested in traditional Anatolian cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes from different regions of Turkey, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The stuffed vegetables and kebabs are particularly noteworthy. It’s a bit out of the way, but trust me, it’s worth the trip.

Street Food

Karaky Gllolu

No visit to Istanbul would be complete without trying some Turkish street food. One of my favorite spots is Karaky Gllolu, famous for its baklava. This sweet pastry is a staple of Turkish cuisine, and Gllolu does it justice. The layers of filo dough are perfectly crisp, and the filling is just the right amount of sweet. Pair it with a cup of Turkish tea for the full experience.

Mandabatmaz

If you’re a coffee lover, you have to try Turkish coffee. And there’s no better place to do that than Mandabatmaz. This historic coffee shop has been serving up strong, rich Turkish coffee for over 150 years. The atmosphere is cozy and traditional, making it a great place to take a break from exploring the city. Just be warned, Turkish coffee is strong!

Seafood

Karaky Lokantas

Istanbul’s location on the Bosphorus means that seafood is a big part of the city’s food scene. One of my favorite seafood spots is Karaky Lokantas. This restaurant offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood dishes, all prepared with a modern twist. The grilled octopus and sea bass are particularly delicious. Plus, the views of the Bosphorus make for a stunning backdrop to your meal.

Balk Sabahattin

Another great option for seafood lovers is Balk Sabahattin. This restaurant is located in a historic building in the Sultanahmet district, and it’s known for its traditional meze (small plates) and fresh fish. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with live Turkish music adding to the ambiance. Maybe I should clarify, the portions are generous, so come hungry!

International Cuisine

Mikla

If you’re looking for something a bit different, Istanbul also has a thriving international food scene. One of my favorite spots is Mikla, a restaurant that blends Turkish and Scandinavian influences. The menu features innovative dishes made with local ingredients, and the views of the city from the rooftop terrace are breathtaking. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth it for a special night out. I’m torn between the lamb and the fish, but ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either.

Zuma

For a taste of modern Japanese cuisine, head to Zuma. This upscale restaurant offers a variety of sushi, sashimi, and robata (grilled) dishes. The atmosphere is sleek and sophisticated, making it a great spot for a date night or a special occasion. The black cod is a must-try, but be prepared to splurge a bit.

Desserts and Sweets

Hafz Mustafa

If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck. Istanbul is famous for its desserts, and there are plenty of places to satisfy your cravings. One of my favorites is Hafz Mustafa, a historic sweet shop that’s been around since 1864. They’re known for their Turkish delight, but they also offer a variety of other sweets, like baklava and marzipan. It’s the perfect place to pick up some treats to take home with you.

Mado

Another great spot for desserts is Mado. This chain of ice cream shops is famous for its Maras ice cream, which is made with goat’s milk and has a unique, chewy texture. They also offer a variety of other desserts, like profiteroles and tiramisu. It’s a bit touristy, but the ice cream is definitely worth trying.

Vegan and Vegetarian Options

Community Kitchen

While Turkish cuisine is often meat-heavy, there are plenty of options for vegans and vegetarians in Istanbul. One of my favorites is Community Kitchen. This cozy caf offers a variety of plant-based dishes, like lentil soup, stuffed grape leaves, and hummus. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual meal.

Vegan Istanbul

Another great option for vegans is Vegan Istanbul. This restaurant offers a variety of plant-based versions of traditional Turkish dishes, like vegan kebabs and vegan baklava. The atmosphere is modern and inviting, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. It’s a great spot for a healthy, delicious meal.

Where to Next?

So there you have it, my guide to the best places to visit in Istanbul for food lovers. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. Istanbul’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and trends popping up all the time. I challenge you to explore beyond this list, try new things, and find your own favorite spots. Who knows, maybe you’ll discover the next big thing in Istanbul’s food scene!

And if you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, why not consider combining your food adventures with some pampering? At DC Total Care, we offer a range of aesthetic and dental treatments to help you look and feel your best. From cosmetic dentistry to non-surgical aesthetics, our team of experts is here to help. Get in touch today to find out more.

WhatsApp: +90(543)1974320

Email: info@dctotalcare.com

FAQ

Q: What is the best time to visit Istanbul for food lovers?
A: Istanbul’s food scene is great year-round, but if you want to experience the city’s outdoor dining and street food, the best time to visit is during the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild.

Q: Is it easy to find vegetarian and vegan options in Istanbul?
A: Yes, while Turkish cuisine is often meat-heavy, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available in Istanbul. Many restaurants offer meat-free dishes, and there are also dedicated vegan and vegetarian restaurants throughout the city.

Q: What is the tipping culture like in Istanbul?
A: Tipping is not mandatory in Istanbul, but it is appreciated. A tip of around 10% is considered generous, but it’s not uncommon to round up the bill or leave the change as a tip.

Q: What are some must-try dishes in Istanbul?
A: Some must-try dishes in Istanbul include kebabs, meze (small plates), baklava, Turkish delight, and of course, Turkish coffee. But don’t be afraid to try new things, Istanbul’s food scene is full of surprises!