What Food To Try in Istanbul and Food Prices

Menemen - Turkish Scrambled Eggs - A savory mix of eggs, tomatoes, green peppers, and spices cooked in a pan. It's a popular breakfast dish, typically enjoyed hot with fresh bread for dipping—perfect for leisurely mornings with family.

Islak Burger - Wet Burger - A meat patty soaked in a tangy tomato-based sauce and served in a soft bun, making it delightfully messy. Commonly found at street food stalls, it’s the late-night snack of choice, especially after a night out with friends.

Kuzu Tandir - Slow-Roasted Lamb - Tender lamb slowly cooked for hours until it falls off the bone, usually served with pilaf and yogurt. Occasionally savored during special family gatherings—it’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table.

İskender - Iskender Kebab - Slices of döner meat layered over warm pide bread, drizzled with rich tomato sauce and melted butter, and served with yogurt. It's enjoyed during lunch or dinner at many local kebab houses and is often ordered for celebratory occasions.

Kumpir - Stuffed Baked Potato - A huge baked potato mashed and mixed with butter and cheese, then filled with a variety of toppings such as pickles, corn, and sausages. Locals love grabbing these from stands in Ortaköy, especially after a long day of exploring the city.

Hamsi Tava - Fried Anchovies - Crispy fried anchovies coated in flour, often served with a side of fresh salad or bread. This dish is particularly popular in the winter, reflecting Ankara's cuisine, and is best enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon to enhance the flavors.

Çılbır - Poached Eggs with Yogurt - Delicate poached eggs on a bed of garlicky yogurt and topped with melted butter and paprika. It's a delectable breakfast option during brunch hours—don't forget to mix it all together for the best experience.

By the way, locals often serve these dishes with shared platters to foster a sense of community at the table.

Çay - چای (spiced black tea) - Strong black tea brewed with boiling water, often served in tulip-shaped glasses. It's common for locals to sip çay throughout the day, especially during gatherings or breaks in the bustling tea houses of Istanbul.

Salep - سالِپ (warm orchid drink) - Creamy drink made from orchid tuber flour mixed with milk and flavored with cinnamon. Enjoyed primarily in winter months, salep is often sold by street vendors, creating a cozy atmosphere while warm for chilly nights in the city.

Rakı - راکی (anise-flavored spirit) - This traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage is made from distilled grapes and flavored with anise, resulting in a licorice-like aroma. Best enjoyed with meze (small plates), locals often drink rakı during leisurely dinners, particularly during celebrations such as weddings.

Baklava - باقلوا (layered pastry dessert) - Delicate pastry made of thin layers of dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It's a staple during special occasions like Ramadan, often served with Turkish coffee to balance the sweetness.

- A uniquely chewy, stretchy ice cream made from salep and goat milk, usually served with a dramatic flourish by street vendors. Popular during hot summer days, this treat becomes a playful experience as they tease customers by keeping it just out of reach, resulting in laughter and excitement.

By the way, don't be surprised if locals specify no sugar in their tea—it's more common than you'd think!