Must-Try Foods In Istanbul (Turkey) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Istanbul, Turkey

The city of Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures and this diversity is reflected in its culinary traditions. Bridging the continents of Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been at the crossroads of various civilizations throughout history, including the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. These influences have created a cuisine that is rich and varied. Ottoman cuisine, in particular, has left a significant mark on Istanbul's culinary scene, with the sultans' kitchens introducing an array of flavors, dishes, and cooking techniques from across the empire. Spices from the East, Mediterranean olives and olive oils, Balkan vegetables, and Persian sweets all contributed to what we now consider traditional Istanbul fare.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Istanbul, Turkey

1. Simit (Veg): Often referred to as Turkish bagel, this circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds is a popular breakfast and street food snack.
2. Meze (Veg/Non-Veg options): These small dishes are similar to tapas and can range from vegetarian options like hummus and stuffed vine leaves to seafood delicacies.
3. Baklava (Veg): A famous Turkish dessert made of layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and soaked in honey or syrup.
4. Lahmacun (Non-Veg): Referred to as Turkish pizza, it's a round, thin piece of dough topped with minced meat (usually lamb or beef), vegetables, and herbs, then baked.
5. Dolma (Veg/Non-Veg options): Vegetables or vine leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and a range of ingredients, which can include meat or be purely vegetarian.
6. Börek (Veg/Non-Veg options): A savory pastry made with phyllo dough, it can be filled with cheese, minced meat, spinach, or potatoes.
7. İskender Kebap (Non-Veg): Thinly sliced grilled lamb served over pieces of pita bread and generously slathered with tomato sauce and melted butter.
8. Yogurtlu Kebap (Non-Veg): Kebabs served with yogurt and tomato sauce, often accompanied by pita bread or rice.
9. Balık Ekmek (Non-Veg): A fish sandwich that is a staple among street vendors, typically made with grilled mackerel.
10. Mercimek Çorbası (Veg): A comforting red lentil soup that is a common appetizer or meal starter.

Top Famous Restaurants in Istanbul, Turkey

Mikla Restaurant

Address: The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Caddesi 15, 34430 Beyoğlu/Istanbul

Famous Food: New Anatolian Kitchen-inspired dishes (Non-Veg/Veg)

Asitane Restaurant

Address: Kariye Camii Sk. No:6, 34240 Edirnekapı/Fatih/Istanbul

Famous Food: Historical Ottoman Cuisine (Non-Veg/Veg options available)

Neolokal

Address: Salt Galata, Bankalar Caddesi 11, Karaköy/Istanbul

Famous Food: Modern dishes based on Anatolian recipes (Non-Veg/Veg)

Uludağ Kebapçısı Cemal ve Cemil Usta

Address: Prof. Dr. Bülent Tarcan Sokak No:19/A, Gayrettepe/Istanbul

Famous Food: Kebaps and grills (Non-Veg)

360 Istanbul

Address: İstiklal Caddesi, Misir Apt. No:163 K:8, 34433 Beyoğlu/Istanbul

Famous Food: Fusion and international cuisine with panoramic views (Non-Veg/Veg)