Discover the Best Places to Eat in Istanbul Old Town

From traditional Turkish kebabs to mouth-watering seafood dishes, Istanbul Old Town offers a diverse and delicious culinary experience for foodies from across the globe. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to grab a quick bite, Istanbul Old Town has got you covered. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best places to eat in Istanbul Old Town.

The Best Restaurants in Istanbul Old Town

🍴Sultanahmet Fish House

🍴Hafiz Mustafa 1864

🍴Haci Baba Restaurant

🍴Balikci Sabahattin

🍴Imbat Restaurant

Sultanahmet Fish House

If you are a seafood lover, you cannot miss the Sultanahmet Fish House. This restaurant is renowned for its fresh fish and mezze dishes, as well as its stunning views of the Bosphorus. Order their famous grilled sea bass or try the shrimp casserole for a real treat.

Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Looking for something sweet? Head to Hafiz Mustafa 1864, one of the oldest and most famous dessert shops in Istanbul. Here, you can indulge in traditional Turkish desserts like baklava, kunefe, and Turkish delight, all freshly made with the finest ingredients.

Haci Baba Restaurant

If you want to try some authentic Turkish kebabs, Haci Baba Restaurant is the place to go. This family-run establishment has been serving up delicious kebabs for over 50 years, and their succulent lamb and chicken dishes are not to be missed.

Balikci Sabahattin

For a taste of Istanbul’s rich maritime history, head to Balikci Sabahattin. This restaurant has been serving up the freshest seafood since 1927 and is renowned for its delicious grilled fish and seafood mezzes. Don’t miss their famous grilled octopus.

Imbat Restaurant

If you want to enjoy a fine dining experience with a view, Imbat Restaurant is the perfect choice. Located on the rooftop of the Legacy Ottoman Hotel, this restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of Istanbul’s Old Town and serves up a delicious fusion of Turkish and international cuisine.

Where to Eat Cheap in Istanbul Old Town

🍴Lale Restaurant

🍴Simit Sarayi

🍴Pita Kuzguncuk

🍴Karakoy Lokantasi

🍴Cigkofteci Yusuf Usta

Lale Restaurant

If you are looking for a cheap but delicious meal, head to Lale Restaurant. This family-run restaurant serves up traditional Turkish dishes at affordable prices. Don’t miss their famous lentil soup or the mixed grill platter.

Simit Sarayi

For a quick and easy breakfast or snack, head to Simit Sarayi. This bakery chain is famous for its freshly baked simit, a traditional Turkish sesame bread, and offers a variety of sweet and savory pastries and sandwiches.

Pita Kuzguncuk

If you want to try some authentic Turkish pita, head to Pita Kuzguncuk. This cozy little eatery serves up freshly baked pita stuffed with delicious fillings like lamb, cheese, and spinach.

Karakoy Lokantasi

Karakoy Lokantasi is a local favorite for cheap and delicious Turkish food. Their menu changes daily and features a variety of home-style dishes like stuffed eggplant, meatballs, and lentil soup.

Cigkofteci Yusuf Usta

Cigkofte is a traditional Turkish dish made with raw ground beef or lamb mixed with spices and served with lettuce leaves. Cigkofteci Yusuf Usta is one of the best places to try this unique dish, and their prices are unbeatable.

FAQs About the Best Places to Eat in Istanbul Old Town

1. What is the best time to visit Istanbul Old Town?

The best time to visit Istanbul Old Town is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than in the summer.

2. Are the restaurants in Istanbul Old Town expensive?

The prices of the restaurants in Istanbul Old Town vary, but there are plenty of affordable options for budget travelers.

3. Can I find vegetarian or vegan options in Istanbul Old Town?

Yes, most restaurants in Istanbul Old Town offer vegetarian and vegan options, and there are also several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the area.

4. Is it safe to eat street food in Istanbul Old Town?

Like any big city, there are some risks associated with street food in Istanbul Old Town. However, if you stick to reputable vendors and follow basic hygiene practices, you should be fine.

5. What is the national dish of Turkey?

The national dish of Turkey is kebab, which comes in many different varieties and is usually served with rice or bread.

6. Is it customary to tip in restaurants in Istanbul Old Town?

Yes, it is customary to tip in restaurants in Istanbul Old Town. A tip of 10% is considered standard, but you can adjust it based on the quality of service.

7. Can I find halal food in Istanbul Old Town?

Yes, most of the restaurants in Istanbul Old Town serve halal food, and there are also several halal restaurants in the area.

8. What is the best way to get around Istanbul Old Town?

The best way to get around Istanbul Old Town is on foot, as many of the streets are narrow and crowded. However, there are also plenty of public transportation options available, including buses, trams, and ferries.

9. Can I drink alcohol in restaurants in Istanbul Old Town?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in most restaurants in Istanbul Old Town, but it is important to be respectful of local customs and drink in moderation.

10. What is the dress code for restaurants in Istanbul Old Town?

The dress code for restaurants in Istanbul Old Town is generally casual, but it is best to avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing in more upscale establishments.

11. What is the currency used in Istanbul Old Town?

The currency used in Istanbul Old Town is the Turkish lira.

12. Can I pay with credit card in restaurants in Istanbul Old Town?

Yes, most restaurants in Istanbul Old Town accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to ask before you order.

13. What is the best way to find good restaurants in Istanbul Old Town?

You can find good restaurants in Istanbul Old Town by asking locals for recommendations, checking online reviews, or exploring the area on foot.

Conclusion

From traditional Turkish restaurants to cheap eats and street food, Istanbul Old Town offers a diverse and delicious culinary experience for foodies from across the globe. Whether you are a seafood lover, a meat enthusiast, or a vegetarian, you are sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in this vibrant and historic neighborhood. So why not plan a trip to Istanbul Old Town and discover the best places to eat for yourself?

🍴Bon appétit!

Disclaimer

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication. However, prices, menus, and other details may change over time, so it is always a good idea to confirm with the restaurant before you visit. Additionally, the author and publisher of this article are not responsible for any illness or other adverse effects that may result from consuming food or drink in Istanbul Old Town.