Istanbul Street Food
The most delicious street food in Istanbul
A Culinary Journey through the City’s Delicious Offerings Istanbul, the vibrant metropolis that straddles two continents, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse culinary scene. Among the city’s most popular food options are its street food offerings, which can be found on every corner and offer a taste of the city’s unique blend of cultures and flavors.
In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey through Istanbul’s best street food, from savory kebabs to sweet baklava. If you get take our Istanbul Private Tour Guide, we usually take a break at famous baklava shops.
Kebabs
One of the most iconic dishes in Istanbul’s street food scene is the doner kebab. These delicious sandwiches consist of layers of marinated meat that are slowly roasted on a vertical spit and then sliced off as needed. Doner kebabs are typically served in a warm pita bread with a variety of toppings, including lettuce, tomato, onion, and a generous drizzle of yogurt sauce.
Another popular kebab option is the Adana kebab, which is named after the southern Turkish city of Adana. This spicy kebab is made with minced lamb or beef, mixed with peppers and spices, and then grilled on a skewer. It is often served with a side of grilled vegetables and rice. We usually offer Kebab our guests who join our Istanbul Private Tour Guide or Old City Istanbul Tour.
Doner kebab
Doner kebab is a popular Turkish dish that has become a global favorite. It is made from layers of marinated meat (usually lamb, chicken, or beef) that are stacked on a vertical spit and slowly rotated while cooking. The meat is then thinly sliced off the spit and served in a variety of ways, including as a sandwich or wrap with vegetables, sauces, and sometimes fries. Doner kebab has a distinctive taste thanks to the spices used in the marinade, which often includes cumin, paprika, garlic, and onion. This tasty and filling dish has become a staple of Turkish cuisine and can be found in many countries around the world.
Borek
Borek is a type of pastry that is commonly found in Istanbul’s street food scene. It is made by layering sheets of phyllo dough with a filling of cheese, meat, or vegetables and then baking it until golden brown. Borek is often served as a snack or breakfast item, and can be found in various shapes and sizes, including spiral-shaped “cigars” and triangle-shaped “samosas.” We offer borek to our guests When we start our Istanbul Tours very early mornings.
Istanbul Street Food
Simit
Simit is a popular snack food in Istanbul that can be found on almost every street corner. These ring-shaped breads are coated with sesame seeds and have a chewy texture and slightly sweet flavor. They are often enjoyed with a cup of Turkish tea and can be found fresh from the oven at bakeries throughout the city.
Balik Ekmek
Balik Ekmek, which translates to “fish bread,” is a beloved street food dish in Istanbul that is perfect for seafood lovers. This sandwich consists of a freshly grilled fish fillet, typically mackerel or sea bass, that is served on a crispy baguette with lettuce, tomato, and onion. It is often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a side of pickles.
Istanbul Street Food
Baklava
No visit to Istanbul is complete without trying the city’s famous baklava. This sweet pastry is made by layering thin sheets of phyllo dough with a filling of chopped nuts, honey, and sugar syrup. Baklava can be found in various shapes and sizes, including diamond-shaped pieces that are often served with a cup of Turkish coffee or tea.
Conclusion
Street foods in Istanbul are operating day and night in tourist areas, Istanbul’s street food scene is a testament to the city’s rich history and diverse culture. From savory kebabs to sweet pastries, there is no shortage of delicious options to try. So, the next time you find yourself in Istanbul, be sure to hit the streets and explore the city’s culinary delights. If you join our Istanbul Food Tour, you will taste all these street foods. As Manolya Tour, we will be glad to organise Istanbul Tour, Cappadocia Tour, Antalya Tour and Pamukkale Tour.
