Street Food is an integral part of Istanbul’s culinary culture, and visitors to the city should explore the local cuisine. Street food illustrates the real essence of Turkish history and lifestyle. Street food vendors offer a wide variety of Turkish specialities, from grilled meats and vegetables to delicious desserts. The best way to try out Istanbul’s street food is to walk through one of the city’s many neighbourhoods and stop at different stalls.
1. Lahmacun in Kadikoy & Fatih
Turkish street food is some of the best in the world, and Lahmacun is a must-try dish. It illustrates Turkish culture among Tourists. It is found in the streets of Kadikoy and Fatih. Tourists also called it “Turkish pizza,” Lahmacun is a thin flatbread topped with a spiced meat and vegetable mix. It’s typically served rolled up, making it easy to eat on the go. The best part about Lahmacun is that it’s relatively inexpensive, so you can try it without breaking the bank. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, give Lahmacun a try.
2. Köfte Ekmek in Fatih
Street food is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the cultural aspects of a place, and Köfte Ekmek (Meatball Hero) is an excellent example of this. It is found in different street restaurants in Fatih, a district of Istanbul. Kofte Ekmek consists of a grilled meatball sandwich with yoghurt and a spicy tomato sauce. The savoury meatballs are usually made from ground lamb or beef and are incredibly flavorful. The sandwich is then served on crusty bread, making it the perfect on-the-go meal. Street foods like Köfte Ekmek are not only delicious but also a great way to support local businesses. You directly support the vendor who made it when you buy street food. This is a great way to boost the local economy and get delicious food simultaneously!
3. Doner Kebab in Historic Districts
Turkish döner kebab is a delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is world-famous and found in historical districts of Istanbul like Eminonu, Sultanahmet and Beyazit. The doner kebab is made with various meats, including lamb, beef, chicken, or pork. The meat is combined with spices and vegetables to develop its unique taste, then wrapped in a flatbread. The result is a hearty and flavorful meal that will please any appetite. Turkish döner kebab is a great way to try something exotic and will indeed become a favourite.
4. Maraş Dövme Dondurması in Kartal
Maraş Dövme Dondurması, or Turkish ice cream, is a famous delicious dessert made from milk, cream, sugar, and mastic. People outside Turkey enjoy this a lot as Turkish vendors deliver them with tricks. Maraş Dövme Dondurması is often served rolled in paper or sprinkled with nuts. It’s a popular treat in Turkey, and it’s said to be the world’s oldest ice cream. So if you’re looking for something new to try, Maraş Dövme Dondurması is famously available in the streets of Kartal in Istanbul. It’s creamy and flavorful and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
5. Midye Dolma at Dudu Odaları
Midye Dolma, or stuffed mussels, is a popular Turkish dish that is both delicious and nutritious. Traditionally, the mussels are filled with a mixture of rice, spices, and ground beef or lamb, then cooked in a tomato-based sauce. It is found in all seafood restaurants in Istanbul. You can also grab them from vendors near the sea. But to be specific, Midye Dolma at Dudu Odalari is relatively famous among tourists. They are served with lemon wedges and are typically accompanied by bread. Whether you’re looking for a hearty main course or a simple starter, Midye Dolma is sure to please.
6. Koçan Mısır & Közde Mısır outside Blue Mosque
One of the fantastic and delicious discoveries of Turkish food is Koçan Mısır & Közde Mısır. It’s a type of boiled and grilled corn on every street corner in Turkey. The corn is cooked in a particular way that gives it a unique flavour, and it is served with a variety of toppings that can include cheese, herbs, and even spicy sauces. So if you’re looking for something new to try in Istanbul, Koçan Mısır & Közde Mısır is highly recommended. You can find it easily, but its famous stalls are outside BlueMosque.
7. Tantuni in Istiklal Street
Turkey’s tantuni is a perfect illustration of Turkish street food and an absolute treat for tourists. It is readily available in Istanbul, but its most popular spots are on Istiklal street. Tanti consists of thinly sliced meat cooked on a flat grill and then rolled up in a flatbread with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for on-the-go eating during travel. So if you’re ever in Istanbul, be sure to try tantuni.
Sum Up
Street food is not only a great way to experience the local flavour of Istanbul, but it is also a budget-friendly option for those looking to save on dining expenses. So whether you’re a fan of Turkish cuisine or simply looking to try something new with your Turkey tour, be sure to add street food to your list of things to do in Istanbul.
