Discovering Istanbul’s Best-Kept Food Secrets in 2025

If you’re a foodie planning a trip to Istanbul, you’re in for a treat. This city is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and while everyone knows about the kebabs and baklava, there’s so much more to explore. I’ve been living in Istanbul for a few years now, and I’m still discovering hidden food gems that continue to blow my mind. Let me share some of my favorite spots and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find your new favorite dish right here in this vibrant city.

When I first moved from the Bay Area, I thought I knew what good food was. But Istanbul’s food scene is something else entirely. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience, the culture, and the people. From the bustling streets of Beyolu to the quiet corners of Kadky, every neighborhood has its own unique flavor. So, let’s dive in and explore some of these hidden food gems in Istanbul.

The Best of Istanbul’s Street Food

Kokore: The Ultimate Late-Night Snack

Let’s start with something you might not have heard of: kokore. It’s a street food made from spiced lamb intestines, and before you wrinkle your nose, hear me out. This stuff is delicious. It’s usually grilled and served with bread and tomatoes, and it’s the perfect late-night snack after a night out in Beyolu. I’m torn between a couple of places, but ultimately, ampiyon Kokore in Beyolu takes the cake. Their kokore is crispy, flavorful, and always hits the spot.

Midye Dolma: A Seafood Lover’s Dream

If you’re a seafood lover, you can’t miss out on midye dolma. These are mussels stuffed with spiced rice, and they’re a staple in Istanbul’s street food scene. You can find them all over the city, but my favorite spot is a little place called MidyeFici in Karaky. The mussels are always fresh, and the rice is perfectly seasoned. Plus, the view of the Bosphorus while you’re eating? You can’t beat it.

Simit: The Turkish Bagel

Simit is often referred to as the Turkish bagel, but it’s so much more than that. These sesame-encrusted bread rings are a staple of Istanbul’s street food scene, and they’re perfect for a quick breakfast on the go. You can find simit vendors on almost every street corner, but for the best simit in town, head to Galata Simitisi in Beyolu. Their simit is always fresh and crispy, and the sesame seeds add just the right amount of crunch. Pair it with some Turkish tea, and you’re good to go.

Hidden Gems in Istanbul’s Restaurants

Van Kahvalt Evi: The Breakfast of Champions

If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, look no further than Van Kahvalt Evi in Beyolu. This place serves up a traditional Turkish breakfast spread that’s to die for. We’re talking fresh bread, olives, cheeses, jams, and of course, menemen – a Turkish-style scrambled egg dish. It’s all served on a massive tray, and it’s the perfect way to start your day. Is this the best breakfast in Istanbul? Let’s consider the fact that it’s always packed with locals and tourists alike. That’s got to count for something, right?

Lokanta Maya: A Modern Take on Turkish Classics

Lokanta Maya in Karaky is a bit of a hidden gem itself. It’s tucked away in a quiet alley, and if you didn’t know it was there, you’d probably miss it. But that would be a shame, because this place serves up some of the best modern Turkish cuisine in the city. The menu changes daily, but you can always expect fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative takes on classic Turkish dishes. Maybe I should clarify that this isn’t your typical tourist spot. It’s a bit more upscale, but it’s worth the splurge.

Karaky Gllolu: The Sweetest Spot in Town

No trip to Istanbul would be complete without indulging in some sweet treats, and Karaky Gllolu is the place to do it. This legendary bakery has been serving up traditional Turkish desserts since 1949, and it’s still as popular as ever. Their baklava is a must-try – it’s flaky, sweet, and absolutely delicious. But don’t sleep on their other offerings, like knefe (a cheese-filled pastry soaked in syrup) or lokum (Turkish delight).

Aslan Restaurant: The King of Kebabs

Okay, I know I said this article was about more than just kebabs, but hear me out. Aslan Restaurant in Beyolu is doing something special with their kebabs. They’re cooking them over an open flame, just like they do in the southeastern region of Turkey. The result is a smoky, flavorful kebab that’s unlike anything else you’ll find in Istanbul. I’m not exaggerating when I say these are some of the best kebabs I’ve ever had. Pair them with some meze (small plates) and a cold beer, and you’re in for a treat.

Off the Beaten Path: Istanbul’s Lesser-Known Foodie Neighborhoods

Kadky: A Foodie’s Paradise

Kadky is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s a real shame. This neighborhood is a foodie’s paradise, with a huge market and countless restaurants and street food vendors. One of my favorite spots is iya Sofras, a restaurant that specializes in dishes from southeastern Turkey. Their kebabs and meze are out of this world, and the atmosphere is always lively and bustling. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their i kfte – a raw meat dish that’s surprisingly delicious.

Balat: The Hip New Kid on the Block

Balat is one of Istanbul’s up-and-coming neighborhoods, and it’s quickly becoming a hotspot for foodies. There are new restaurants and cafes popping up all the time, but one of my favorites is Forno Balat. This Italian-inspired spot serves up some of the best pizza and pasta in the city. It’s a bit of a departure from traditional Turkish cuisine, but it’s worth a visit if you’re in the mood for something different. Plus, the neighborhood itself is gorgeous, with colorful buildings and winding streets.

Bebek: The Place to See and Be Seen

Bebek is one of Istanbul’s most affluent neighborhoods, and it’s known for its fancy restaurants and cafes. But don’t let that deter you – there are still plenty of great foodie spots to check out. One of my favorites is Bebek Balks, a seafood restaurant right on the Bosphorus. The views are stunning, and the seafood is always fresh and delicious. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth it for the experience.

The Future of Istanbul’s Food Scene

Istanbul’s food scene is always evolving, and it’s exciting to think about what the future holds. I predict that we’ll see more of a focus on sustainability and local ingredients, as well as a continued rise in modern Turkish cuisine. But who knows? Maybe I’m completely off the mark. Only time will tell.

One thing’s for sure, though: Istanbul will always be a city that loves food. And as long as that’s the case, there will always be new hidden food gems to discover. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring. Who knows what delicious surprises you’ll find? We’re here to help you discover the beauty of Istanbul and who knows maybe we can help you with more then just food. You can reach us at

FAQ

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Istanbul for food?
A: Istanbul is a great food destination year-round, but the spring and fall are particularly nice. The weather is mild, and there are plenty of fresh, seasonal ingredients to enjoy.

Q: Is it safe to eat street food in Istanbul?
A: Yes, it’s generally safe to eat street food in Istanbul. Just use common sense and stick to vendors that look clean and have a high turnover of customers.

Q: What is the tipping culture like in Istanbul?
A: Tipping is not mandatory in Istanbul, but it’s appreciated. A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants, while rounding up the bill is sufficient for street food vendors and taxis.

Q: What are some typical Turkish drinks to try?
A: Some typical Turkish drinks to try include Turkish tea (ay), Turkish coffee (Trk kahvesi), and ayran (a yogurt-based drink). If you’re feeling adventurous, try rak, an anise-flavored spirit that’s popular in Turkey.

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