20 Best Foods in Istanbul: A Culinary Journey Through Istanbul’s Rich Flavors

Istanbul, a city where two continents meet, is a place of rich history, diverse cultures, and an explosion of culinary flavors. The city's food scene is a perfect reflection of its eclectic heritage, blending Eastern and Western influences, ancient recipes, and modern twists. Whether you’re strolling through the Grand Bazaar, relaxing along the Bosphorus, or visiting the iconic Hagia Sophia, the culinary delights of Istanbul will captivate you.

Here’s a guide to the best foods in Istanbul that you must try when you visit this fascinating city.

1. Kebap

Kebap is one of the most famous dishes in Istanbul, available in styles like Adana, Urfa, şiş, Beyti, and Iskender. It’s often served with flatbread, bulgur, and grilled vegetables.

Why try it: Kebap showcases perfect grilling techniques, balanced spices, and top-quality meat.

2. Baklava

This sweet pastry is made from filo dough, filled with crushed pistachios or walnuts, and soaked in syrup or honey. Gaziantep baklava is the most famous variety.

Why try it: Its richness and crunch make it a symbol of Turkish dessert culture.

3. Simit

Simit is a sesame-crusted circular bread, crispy outside and soft inside. It’s a breakfast favorite sold by street vendors across the city.

Why try it: Inexpensive, delicious, and an essential Istanbul morning ritual.

4. Meze

A collection of small dishes served before the main meal. Popular mezes include hummus, ezme, dolma, and baba ganoush.

Why try it: Perfect for sharing and exploring a wide variety of Turkish flavors.

5. Lahmacun

Often called Turkish pizza, lahmacun is a thin flatbread topped with spicy minced meat and herbs, served with fresh greens and lemon.

Why try it: Light, crispy, and packed with flavor—great for a quick bite.

6. Manti

Turkish dumplings filled with ground meat, topped with yogurt, melted butter, and paprika. A comfort food classic.

Why try it: A savory, satisfying dish loved across Turkey.

7. Köfte

Grilled or fried meatballs made from lamb or beef, served with bread or rice. Often spiced with cumin, coriander, and parsley.

Why try it: Hearty and flavorful—a staple of Turkish home cuisine.

8. Çorba (Soup)

Soups like mercimek (lentil), yayla (yogurt-mint), and tarator (cold cucumber) are popular starters.

Why try it: A warm and nourishing beginning to any meal.

9. Börek

A flaky pastry filled with cheese, minced meat, or spinach. Found fresh in bakeries throughout the city.

Why try it: Crispy outside, rich inside—perfect for breakfast or snacking.

10. Pide

Boat-shaped flatbread with toppings like meat, cheese, or vegetables. Often called Turkish pizza.

Why try it: Customizable, shareable, and always delicious.

11. Kumpir

Stuffed baked potato loaded with cheese, sausage, olives, corn, and more. Popular in Ortakoy.

Why try it: Fun, filling, and highly customizable street food.

12. Iskender

Sliced lamb served over pita, with tomato sauce, yogurt, and hot butter. A specialty from Bursa, beloved in Istanbul.

Why try it: One of Turkey’s most indulgent and iconic dishes.

13. Balik Ekmek

A sandwich made with grilled mackerel, onions, and lemon, sold near the waterfront in areas like Eminönü.

Why try it: A symbol of Istanbul’s connection to the sea.

14. Dondurma

Turkish ice cream made with salep, giving it a chewy texture. Served with fun street performance by vendors.

Why try it: Unique texture and memorable presentation.

15. Kısır

A cold bulgur salad with tomatoes, herbs, and pomegranate molasses. Often part of meze platters.

Why try it: Light, tangy, and refreshing—especially in summer.

16. Sütlaç

Turkish rice pudding, sometimes oven-baked for a caramelized top. Flavored with vanilla or cinnamon.

Why try it: Creamy, comforting, and nostalgic for many locals.

17. Karnıyarık

Baked eggplant stuffed with minced meat, onions, and spices. Served hot with rice.

Why try it: A classic showcasing eggplant’s role in Turkish cuisine.

18. Ayran

A cold yogurt-based drink with water and salt. Served with grilled dishes or on its own.

Why try it: Cool, refreshing, and the perfect companion to savory meals.

19. Kavurma

Slow-cooked lamb or beef in its own fat, served with rice or flatbread. Traditionally made for feasts.

Why try it: Deeply flavorful and tender—ideal for meat lovers.

20. Sarma

Stuffed vine leaves filled with rice, herbs, and pine nuts. Served with olive oil or yogurt.

Why try it: A refreshing and herbaceous traditional favorite.

Conclusion

Istanbul is a food lover’s paradise. From sizzling kebaps to syrupy desserts and fresh seafood to spicy mezes, every bite tells a story of the city’s rich cultural and historical legacy. Don’t miss the chance to taste your way through the best foods Istanbul has to offer.