Food In Grand Bazaar

Food History of Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey

The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, has served as a bustling hub of commerce since its establishment in the 15th century. Throughout its history, it has not only been a center for the trade of goods but also a melting pot of cultures, reflected in the rich and diverse culinary traditions found within its labyrinthine corridors. Influenced by the many civilizations that have reigned over the city, from the Byzantine Empire through the Ottoman era, the food in and around the Grand Bazaar incorporates a blend of flavors from the Middle East, the Mediterranean, Central Asia, and beyond. Spices, teas, sweets, and various traditional dishes have been sold within its walls, enchanting travelers and locals alike.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul for Tourists

1. Döner (Non-Veg) - A popular Turkish dish made of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, often served as a sandwich or wrap.
2. Lahmacun (Non-Veg) - Frequently called ‘Turkish pizza,’ it comprises a thin dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, baked to perfection.
3. Baklava (Veg) - A renowned sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
4. Gözleme (Veg option available) - A traditional savory Turkish flatbread and pastry dish, made of hand-rolled dough that is lightly brushed with butter and eggs, filled with various toppings, sealed, and cooked over a griddle.
5. Kumpir (Veg option available) - A baked potato with a crispy skin and soft inside, mixed with butter and cheese, and then topped with a variety of ingredients.
6. Simit (Veg) - A circular bread, encrusted with sesame seeds, and often eaten as a quick snack throughout the day.
7. Börek (Veg option available) - A family of baked or fried filled pastries made of a thin flaky dough known as phyllo (or yufka), with various fillings such as cheese, potatoes, or spinach.
8. Mezze (Veg option available) - A selection of small dishes served as appetizers, commonly including hummus, tabbouleh, olives, and more.
9. Turkish Delight (Lokum) (Veg) - A family of confections based on a gel of starch and sugar, with various flavors and fillings, often dusted with icing sugar.
10. Ayran (Veg) - A traditional Turkish beverage made from yogurt, water, and salt, and a perfect refreshment to accompany any meal.

Top Famous Restaurants in the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul and Their Specialties

• Old Ottoman Café & Restaurant
  Address: Vezirhan Cd. No:15, 34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
  Famous Food: Chicken Shish (Non-Veg)
• Havuzlu Restaurant
  Address: Grand Bazaar, Halıcılar Cd. No:62, 34126 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
  Famous Food: Turkish Kebabs (Non-Veg)
• Gaziantep Burç Ocakbaşı
  Address: Grand Bazaar, 34126 Beyazıt/Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
  Famous Food: Kebap Varieties (Non-Veg)
• Çorlulu Ali Paşa Medresesi
  Address: Yeniçeriler Cd. No:36, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
  Famous Food: Traditional Turkish Tea and Nargile (Veg)
• Karadeniz Pide ve Döner Salonu
  Address: Kalpakçılar Cd. No:42, 34126 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
  Famous Food: Pide Varieties (Non-Veg, Veg option available)