Best Street Food In Taksim Istanbul

Visiting Istanbul is an experience for all senses. The city is full of culture, history, and amazing food. One of the best ways to experience the city is by trying the street food. Taksim, located in the heart of Istanbul, is a great place to start your street food journey. Here are some of the best street foods to try in Taksim Istanbul:

1. Kokoreç

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Kokoreç is a popular street food in Istanbul made from lamb intestines. The intestines are wrapped around sweetbreads and seasoned with spices before being grilled. It is served in a sandwich or on a plate with vegetables and bread.

2. Midye Dolma

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Midye dolma is a popular street food that consists of stuffed mussels. The mussels are stuffed with a rice mixture and served with a slice of lemon.

3. Tantuni

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Tantuni is a popular street food that originated in Mersin, Turkey. Thinly sliced beef or lamb is cooked with peppers and spices and served in a wrap with onions, parsley, and sumac.

4. Simit

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Simit is a circular bread covered in sesame seeds. It is often eaten for breakfast and can be found at street vendors throughout Istanbul.

5. Balık Ekmek

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Balık ekmek is a fish sandwich that can be found at street vendors near the water. The sandwich is made with grilled fish, lettuce, onions, and a slice of lemon.

6. Lahmacun

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Lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, vegetables, and spices. It is often served with a squeeze of lemon juice.

7. Döner Kebab

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Döner kebab is a popular street food in Turkey made from meat that is cooked on a vertical spit and sliced thinly. It is often served in a wrap or on a plate with vegetables and bread.

8. Börek

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Börek is a pastry made from phyllo dough that is filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat. It is often served as a snack or for breakfast.

9. İçli Köfte

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İçli köfte is a popular street food in Turkey made from bulgur wheat and stuffed with meat, onions, and spices. It is often served with a squeeze of lemon juice.

10. Kumpir

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Kumpir is a popular street food in Istanbul made from baked potatoes that are mashed and mixed with butter and cheese. It is often served with a variety of toppings, such as corn, olives, and sausage.

11. Güllaç

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Güllaç is a traditional dessert made from phyllo dough, milk, and sugar. It is often served during Ramadan and other festivals.

12. Dondurma

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Dondurma is a Turkish ice cream that is made with salep, a type of flour made from orchid roots. It is known for its stretchy texture and is often served with a variety of toppings.

13. Ayran

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Ayran is a traditional Turkish drink made from yogurt, water, and salt. It is often served as a refreshing drink during the hot summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is street food safe to eat in Istanbul?

Yes, street food is generally safe to eat in Istanbul. However, it is important to choose vendors that look clean and have a lot of customers.

2. How much does street food cost in Istanbul?

Street food in Istanbul is generally very affordable. Prices vary depending on the type of food and the location, but you can generally expect to pay between 5 and 20 Turkish Lira per item.

3. What is the best time to eat street food in Istanbul?

Street food in Istanbul is available all day and night, but it is most popular in the evening and at night when the weather is cooler.

4. What is the most popular street food in Istanbul?

The most popular street foods in Istanbul are döner kebab, simit, and kokoreç.

5. Can I find vegetarian street food in Istanbul?

Yes, there are many vegetarian street food options in Istanbul, such as börek, stuffed vine leaves, and roasted chestnuts.

6. Do street vendors in Istanbul accept credit cards?

Most street vendors in Istanbul only accept cash, so it is important to carry Turkish Lira with you.

7. Is it customary to tip street vendors in Istanbul?

It is not necessary to tip street vendors in Istanbul, but it is appreciated if you have received good service.

8. Are there any street food tours in Istanbul?

Yes, there are many street food tours available in Istanbul that will take you to the best street food vendors in the city.

9. Can I find halal street food in Istanbul?

Yes, there are many halal street food options in Istanbul, such as döner kebab and lahmacun.

10. How do I know if a street vendor is selling authentic Turkish food?

Look for vendors that are popular with locals and have a lot of customers. You can also ask for recommendations from locals or take a street food tour.

11. What is the best way to order street food in Istanbul?

The best way to order street food in Istanbul is to point to what you want or use basic Turkish phrases such as Bir tane lütfen (One please).

12. Can I find gluten-free street food in Istanbul?

Yes, there are many gluten-free street food options in Istanbul, such as roasted chestnuts and stuffed vine leaves.

13. What is the best way to navigate street food in Istanbul?

The best way to navigate street food in Istanbul is to ask locals for recommendations, take a street food tour, or do some research online before you go.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a truly authentic Istanbul experience, be sure to try some of the amazing street food in Taksim. From savory meats to sweet desserts, there’s something for everyone. Just be sure to choose vendors that look clean and are popular with locals. Happy eating!

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on the author’s personal experience and research. Prices and availability may vary depending on location and season.