Best Street Food Places In Istanbul

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul, Turkey? Well, if you are, then you are in for a treat! Istanbul is not only a beautiful city but also home to some of the best street food in the world. With its rich history and cultural diversity, the city offers a wide range of delicious street food options that will leave your taste buds craving for more. In this article, we will guide you through the best street food places in Istanbul that are a must-visit for any food lover.

The Ultimate Guide to Istanbul’s Delicious Street Food Scene

From savory to sweet, Istanbul’s street food scene has something for everyone. Here are some of the best street food places in Istanbul that you don’t want to miss:

1. Balik Ekmek (Fish Sandwich)

🐟 Balik Ekmek is a traditional Turkish sandwich that is made with grilled fish and served in a bread bun with lettuce, onions, and tomatoes. This delicious sandwich is a must-try when in Istanbul, especially from the Eminonu area where it originated. Try it at one of the many street vendors along the Bosphorus for a truly authentic experience.

2. Kumpir (Baked Potato)

🥔 Kumpir is a popular street food in Istanbul that is a baked potato stuffed with a variety of toppings, including corn, olives, cheese, and more. The potato is mashed and mixed with the desired toppings, making for a filling and savory meal. Head to Ortakoy, one of Istanbul’s most popular neighborhoods, to try this delicious street food.

3. Simit (Sesame Bagel)

🥯 Simit is a circular sesame bagel that is a staple of Turkish cuisine. It’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making for a perfect breakfast or snack food. You can find Simit in almost every corner of Istanbul, but the best ones are found at local bakeries and street vendors.

4. Doner Kebab

🌯 Doner Kebab is a popular street food in Istanbul that consists of meat (usually lamb or beef) that is cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in a pita or wrap. The meat is seasoned with a blend of spices and served with vegetables, yogurt, and sauces. You can find Doner Kebab in almost every street corner of Istanbul, but the best ones are found at the famous Taksim Square.

5. Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

🍕 Lahmacun is a thin flatbread that is topped with minced meat, vegetables, and spices. It’s often referred to as Turkish pizza and is a popular street food in Istanbul. It’s a perfect meal on the go and can be found in most street food stalls all over the city.

6. Borek (Turkish Pastry)

🥐 Borek is a traditional Turkish pastry that is filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It’s flaky and savory, making for a perfect breakfast or snack food. You can find Borek in most bakeries and street vendors throughout Istanbul.

7. Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels)

🐚 Midye Dolma is a popular street food in Istanbul that consists of mussels stuffed with rice, spices, and herbs. It’s a unique and delicious dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. You can find Midye Dolma in most seafood restaurants along the Bosphorus.

8. Baklava (Sweet Pastry)

🍰 Baklava is a famous sweet pastry that’s made of layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and syrup. It’s a popular dessert in Turkish cuisine and can be found in most bakeries and sweet shops throughout Istanbul.

9. Kokorec (Grilled Intestines)

🐖 Kokorec is a popular street food in Istanbul that is made of grilled lamb or goat intestines. It’s a unique dish that’s not for everyone, but worth trying for its distinctive flavor. You can find Kokorec in most street food stalls in Istanbul.

10. Dondurma (Turkish Ice Cream)

🍦 Dondurma is a traditional Turkish ice cream that’s known for its stretchy and chewy texture. It’s made from salep, a flour made from orchid tubers, and mastic, a resin from the mastic tree. It’s a fun and delicious dessert that’s perfect for a hot summer day. You can find Dondurma in most ice cream shops and street vendors throughout Istanbul.

Where to Find Istanbul’s Best Street Food

Istanbul is a giant city, and finding the best street food can be overwhelming. Here are some of the best places to find Istanbul’s delicious street food:

Kadikoy

Kadikoy is a neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul that’s known for its vibrant food scene. It’s home to many street food vendors, markets, and local restaurants. You can find some of Istanbul’s best street food in Kadikoy, including Kokorec, Balik Ekmek, and more.

Eminonu

Eminonu is a historic neighborhood on the European side of Istanbul that’s known for its street food scene. It’s home to many street food vendors, cafes, and traditional Turkish restaurants. You can find some of Istanbul’s best street food in Eminonu, including Simit, Balik Ekmek, and more.

Taksim Square

Taksim Square is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks and a popular tourist destination. It’s home to many street food vendors, cafes, and restaurants, offering a wide range of street food options. You can find some of Istanbul’s best Doner Kebabs in Taksim Square.

FAQs

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

The most popular street food in Istanbul is Doner Kebab.

2. Where can I find the best Baklava in Istanbul?

You can find the best Baklava in Istanbul in Karakoy Gulluoglu Baklava.

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

The best time to try street food in Istanbul is during the day when most vendors are open and serving fresh food.

4. What is the price range for street food in Istanbul?

The price range for street food in Istanbul varies, but most dishes cost between 5-20 Turkish Lira.

5. What is the best neighborhood to try street food in Istanbul?

Kadikoy is the best neighborhood to try street food in Istanbul.

6. Is Istanbul’s street food safe to eat?

Yes, Istanbul’s street food is safe to eat, but it’s always best to choose vendors that look clean and hygienic.

7. What is the best street food to try for vegetarians?

Borek is the best street food to try for vegetarians.

Conclusion

Istanbul’s street food scene is a must-try for any food lover. From savory to sweet, Istanbul’s street food has something for everyone. The city’s vibrant food culture and diverse cuisine make it a foodie’s paradise. Make sure to visit these 10 best street food places in Istanbul to enjoy the city’s delicious culinary delights.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets to Istanbul and experience the city’s mouth-watering street food for yourself. Bon Appétit!

Disclaimer

The information in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. However, we recommend that you check with the vendors and restaurants directly for the latest information on their menus, pricing, and hygiene standards. We are not responsible for any damages or losses that may occur as a result of following the information in this article.