A Foodie’s Guide: The Best Places to eat in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul, located in Turkey, is a historic city that sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. As a result of its strategic location, it has been an important cultural and economic center for centuries and has had a significant impact on the development of Turkish cuisine. The city’s rich history has shaped its culinary traditions and continues to influence its food scene today, which is why there are that many great places to eat in Istanbul.

One of the most notable ways in which Istanbul has influenced Turkish cuisine is through its history as a melting pot of cultures. Throughout its history, the city has been home to a diverse population, including Greeks, Armenians, and Arabs, who have brought their own culinary traditions with them. This has resulted in a cuisine that is a fusion of different flavors and ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes in Istanbul, such as moussaka, köfte, and shish kebab, reflect this cultural diversity.

Another way in which Istanbul has had an impact on Turkish cuisine is through its role as a center of trade and commerce. The city’s location at the crossroads of major trade routes has allowed for exchanging goods and ideas between different cultures. This has resulted in the availability of various ingredients, including spices, fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, the city’s thriving culinary scene has helped to popularize traditional Turkish dishes, such as mezze, a collection of small dishes, and dolma, stuffed grape leaves, which can be found throughout Turkey and beyond.

The food scene in Istanbul

Istanbul’s food scene is diverse and reflects the city’s rich history and cultural influences. Turkish cuisine is known for its delicious and flavorful dishes, and Istanbul is a great place to experience it. The city has a vibrant street food scene, with vendors selling traditional dishes such as simit (a sesame-covered ring-shaped bread), kokoreç (grilled lamb intestines) and balık ekmek (fish sandwich).

One of the most popular and traditional dishes in Istanbul is the kebab. It is a meat dish, usually made from lamb or chicken, grilled on a skewer, and served on pita bread. You can find kebab shops all over the city, ranging from street vendors to high-end restaurants. Another traditional Turkish dish is mezze, a collection of small dishes that include a variety of appetizers and side dishes like dolma (stuffed grape leaves), hummus, and tzatziki.

Istanbul is also known for its sweets and desserts, such as baklava, a phyllo pastry filled with nuts and sweetened with honey, and lokma, fried dough balls drizzled with syrup.

Places to eat in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that is as famous for its food as it is for its historical places. From traditional kebabs to flavorful mezze and delicious sweets, the city’s culinary scene is diverse and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a casual bite to eat, here are some of the best places to eat in Istanbul.

Restaurant Mabou

Restaurant Mabou is a contemporary Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine restaurant known for its unique blend of flavors, creative presentation, and high-quality ingredients. 

The menu features a variety of dishes that highlight the region’s rich culinary traditions and contemporary twists on classic dishes. The wine list also offers a lot of local and international selections. 

Its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff are one of the reasons why Mabou is one of the most popular restaurants in Istanbul.

Balkon Restaurant

Balkon Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Istanbul, known for its beautiful views as the restaurant is located on the rooftop terrace of a historic building, offering panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus. It’s one of the most popular rooftop restaurants in Istanbul, which are great for special occasions, romantic evenings, and group gatherings.

The menu features a variety of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is known for its creative presentation and friendly and attentive service. 

Antiochia Restaurant

Another great place to eat in Istanbul is the Antiochia Restaurant, a restaurant with a Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine that specializes in traditional dishes from the Antakya region, which is known for its delicious and unique flavors. The menu features a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetarian options, as well as a selection of mezzes, which are small dishes that are typically served as appetizers. 

Antiochia has a cozy atmosphere, known for its friendly service and authentic food.

Viyana Kahvesi Galata

Viyana Kahvesi Galata is a cafe located in the historic district of Galata in Istanbul, Turkey. The cafe has a classic Viennese-style decor and serves traditional Turkish coffee, tea, and a variety of pastries. 

The cafe is known for its cozy atmosphere and great location, allowing for beautiful views of the city and the Bosphorus. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, enjoy a cup of coffee and take in the beautiful surroundings. Viyana Kahvesi Galata is one of the most popular and traditional cafes in Istanbul, and it’s well-known for its great service and authentic Turkish coffee.

Cesme Bazlama Kahvalti Nisantasi

Cesme Bazlama Kahvalti Nisantasi is a Turkish breakfast and brunch restaurant located in the Nisantasi neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. 

The restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish breakfast, which is typically served with menemen (a type of omelette), bazlama (a type of flatbread), and various types of cheeses, olives, honey, and jams. 

The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly service, making it popular among locals and one of the best places to eat in Istanbul for tourists.

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