Flavours of Istanbul: A Food Route from Simit to Fish Sandwiches
One of the most enjoyable ways to get to know Istanbul is through its food. In a city where culinary traditions from many regions meet, there is something for every taste, from street food to long-established restaurants.
Starting the day with breakfast
A spread of cheeses, olives, honey, clotted cream, jams and hot tea, the Turkish breakfast is a weekend essential in Istanbul. Breakfast spots along the Bosphorus combine the experience with a view.
Street food
Sesame simit, fish sandwiches prepared on boats in Eminonu, stuffed mussels, kokorec and roasted chestnuts top the list of the city's street food. A simit and tea from a street vendor is Istanbul's simplest and best-loved combination.
Esnaf restaurants and meyhanes
Esnaf restaurants, with home-style dishes cooked daily, are ideal for anyone craving home cooking. In the evening, meyhane tables laid with meze and fish are an important part of Istanbul's social life.
A sweet break
Baklava, kunefe, rice pudding and Turkish delight served with Turkish coffee are the best way to finish a meal.
A food tour
To visit food stops in different neighbourhoods in a single day, use our chauffeured car service and leave the traffic and navigation to us while you explore.
