Food & drinkWhat and where to eat in Istanbul
Use markets, neighbourhood restaurants and tea stops to put together a day of eating at your own pace.
Food & drink
Istanbul food and restaurants: questions
Where can I start exploring Istanbul’s food?
Kadıköy Market, the streets around the Spice Bazaar and the Beşiktaş market area offer different introductions. Choose one area and build a short walking route with room for a meal and tea.
How do I check a restaurant’s menu and opening hours?
Use the restaurant’s own website or account for the latest menu, then confirm directly if a particular dish or visit time matters. Map listings and old reviews can lag behind.
What is a lokanta and how do I order?
At many casual lokantas, the day’s cooked dishes are displayed at the counter. Ask which dishes are available, whether sides are included and how portions are priced before ordering.
What are simit, börek and a Turkish breakfast?
Simit is a sesame-covered bread ring, and börek is a layered pastry with fillings that vary. A shared breakfast spread can include eggs, cheese, olives and tea. Ask what comes with the menu and whether pricing is per person.
How should I ask about allergens in Istanbul restaurants?
Name the ingredient clearly and ask the kitchen about both ingredients and shared preparation surfaces. For example, “Bu yemekte susam var mı?” asks whether the dish contains sesame.
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