What to Eat in Istanbul: A Food Guide Beyond Kebabs

The Culinary Diversity

Yes, the kebabs are incredible, but Turkish cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world, heavily influenced by the Mediterranean, the Balkans, and the Middle East.

Must-Try Street Food

• Balık Ekmek (Fish Sandwich): Freshly grilled mackerel served in half a loaf of bread with onions and lemon. Eat this right off the boats in Eminönü.
• Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels): Mussels stuffed with spiced rice, pine nuts, and currants. You eat them standing up on the street, squeezing lemon over each one until you've eaten twenty.
• Islak Burger (Wet Burger): A small, garlicky burger drenched in a tomato sauce and kept hot in a steam box. It is the ultimate late-night food in Taksim Square.

Esnaf Lokantası (Tradesmen Restaurants)

For lunch, you must visit an Esnaf Lokantası. These are cafeteria-style restaurants that serve traditional, slow-cooked, home-style meals (Sulu Yemek). You point at the hot trays behind the glass to order stews, stuffed eggplants, and pilafs. It is incredibly cheap, fast, and healthy.

Culinary Tours

If you book a food tour that takes you from the spice markets of Europe to the fish markets of Asia, you will need stamina. Start your culinary journey right by ensuring your initial airport arrival is handled by a smooth, stress-free VIP Transfer.