Istanbul is one of those cities where food is everywhere. On the street, in tiny bakeries, in family restaurants, and in places that haven’t changed in decades. Eating here is not just about being full — it’s about culture, tradition, and rhythm. These are ten dishes that truly belong to Istanbul.
1. Kokoreç
This one’s not for everyone — but it’s pure Istanbul. Grilled, seasoned lamb intestines chopped finely, cooked with spices, and served in bread. Smoky, intense, and usually eaten late at night. Locals swear by it after a long evening out.
2. Balık Ekmek
Balık ekmek is Istanbul street food at its best. Fresh grilled fish, usually mackerel, served in bread with onions and salad. You’ll find it near the water, especially around the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. Simple, salty, fresh — and eaten standing, watching the ferries pass by.
3. Lahmacun
Thin, crispy, and packed with flavour. Lahmacun is often called “Turkish pizza,” but that doesn’t do it justice. Topped with spiced minced meat, herbs, and tomato, then rolled up with lemon and parsley. Light, addictive, and perfect for lunch or a quick bite.
4. Iskender Kebab
This is comfort food at its finest. Thinly sliced döner meat served over bread, drenched in tomato sauce, topped with melted butter and yoghurt on the side. Rich, warm, and satisfying. This is a sit-down dish, not street food — and worth every calorie.
5. Meze (Shared Plates)
Meze is how Istanbul eats together. Small plates of hummus, eggplant salads, yoghurt dishes, stuffed vine leaves, and more. Meze is not rushed. You sit, talk, drink tea or ayran, and let the evening unfold. It’s about sharing — and staying longer than planned.
6. Börek
Flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. Börek is eaten for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack. Fresh from the oven, crispy on the outside, soft inside. You’ll find bakeries selling it early in the morning — locals grabbing pieces on the way to work.
7. Midye Dolma
Stuffed mussels filled with spiced rice, herbs, and lemon. Sold by street vendors, usually at night. You eat them one by one, squeezing lemon over the top. Addictive, messy, and absolutely essential Istanbul street food.
8. Menemen
A classic Turkish breakfast dish made with eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and spices. Served bubbling hot in a pan and eaten with bread. Simple ingredients, huge flavour. Breakfast in Istanbul is serious business — and menemen is one of the stars.
9. Simit
The iconic Istanbul street snack. A sesame-covered bread ring sold everywhere, from early morning till late evening. Locals eat it plain or with cheese and tea. Cheap, crunchy, and deeply nostalgic — simit belongs to the rhythm of the city.
10. Baklava (And Turkish Desserts)
Istanbul takes desserts seriously. Baklava layered with nuts and soaked in syrup is the most famous, but there’s much more: sütlaç (rice pudding), künefe, and endless variations. Strong Turkish coffee or tea always follows. Sweet, intense, and unforgettable.
