Food & Beverage

Istanbul is a world-famous city, not only for its historical and cultural richness, but also for its delicious street food. In the shadow of the cool waters of the Bosphorus and historic mosques, you can encounter a different flavor at every corner. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular street flavors of Istanbul. 

1- Fish Bread 

Fish bread is one of the must-try delicacies for every tourist visiting Istanbul. This delicacy, which is prepared by cooking fresh fish in the embers at the fish bread stalls you can often find on the Galata Bridge and Eminönü, has become one of the symbols of the city. You can complete your fish bread with lemon and pickles and enjoy the Bosphorus view. 

2- Stuffed Mussels 

Mussel dolma stalls are always full on the streets of Istanbul. Prepared with spicy rice and lemon juice, stuffed mussels are a delicious and filling snack. You can enjoy stuffed mussels in neighborhoods such as Beyoğlu, Taksim and Kadıköy. 

3- Kumpir 

One of the most popular street delicacies of Ortaköy, kumpir is prepared by adding cheese, corn, sausage, mayonnaise and various sauces to a large potato baked in the oven. Customizable with different ingredients according to everyone's taste, kumpir is a filling and delicious meal option. 

4- Simit 

Crispy bagels covered with poppy seeds and sesame seeds are an indispensable part of Istanbul's breakfasts. Early in the morning, you can hear the voices of bagel sellers on the streets. Simit, along with tea and cheese, makes a perfect breakfast. 

5- Chicken Pilaf 

Chicken pilaf, which you can find in every corner of the city, is a hearty and delicious street food. It is usually served with pickles and salad. You can find the most delicious examples of chicken pilaf in Beyoğlu and Kadıköy. 

6- Wet Hamburger 

Frequently found in Beyoğlu and Taksim Square, wet hamburger is a street food prepared with special sauces and beef. If you get hungry late at night, a wet hamburger is a delicious solution. 

7- Kokorec 

Kokoreç is a winter snack made from lamb intestines and usually marinated with spices. For kokoreç lovers, there are many kokoreç shops in Beyoğlu and Kadıköy. 

8- Döner 

Doner Kebab, an indispensable part of Turkish cuisine, can be found on the streets at doner stalls or in doner shops. It is served between fresh bread or as a wrap. You can find delicious examples of döner in every neighborhood in Istanbul. 

The street flavors of Istanbul are one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the spirit and culture of the city. You can have an unforgettable gastronomic experience by trying these flavors.