One of the best ways to experience Turkish culture is through its vibrant gastronomy. From savory street food to timeless Ottoman dishes, Turkey offers a culinary adventure unlike any other. Below, Turkish foods that you should try when visiting Istanbul.
- Döner Kebab
Döner is a classic that you’ll see everywhere in Turkey. This dish features juicy, tender meat shaved right off a rotating spit and often served in fresh bread with onions, tomatoes, and flavorful sauces. Quick, filling, and perfect as you explore the city, döner shops draw both locals and tourists with lines that can stretch down the street—especially during peak hours. Arrive early or be prepared to wait, but trust me, it’s well worth it.
- Boza
Boza is one of the oldest beverages in Turkey, made by fermenting corn, wheat, sugar, and water. Slightly sweet and tangy, it’s typically served with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. This thick, creamy drink has a fascinating history going back to the 10th century. The modern, non-alcoholic version is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique taste of Turkish culture.
- Tavuklu Pilav (Rice with Chickpeas & Chicken)
Tavuklu Pilav may look simple, but it’s a hearty dish adored by locals. Soft, flavorful rice is cooked with chickpeas and topped with shredded chicken, creating a comforting, home-style meal. Many people like to pair it with yogurt or ayran (a salted yogurt drink). It’s especially popular among busy workers, students, or anyone who wants a quick, satisfying bite.
- Pide (Traditional Ottoman Oven-Baked Flatbread)
Often referred to as “Turkish pizza,” pide is made by rolling out dough, loading it with toppings like minced meat or cheese, and baking it to crispy perfection. Some shops still use old-fashioned Ottoman-style ovens that add a distinct, smoky flavor to the dough. Watching the dough being slid into a centuries-old oven is a special experience that adds to the dish’s allure.
- Turkish Delight (Lokum) & Other Sweets
Soft, flavorful lokum (Turkish Delight) comes in varieties like rose, pistachio, and almond. One of the most famous sweet shops in Istanbul dates back to the 18th century and offers a dazzling array of lokum and other confections. These historic shops combine heritage and flavor, allowing you to indulge both your sweet tooth and your curiosity about Turkey’s culinary past.
- Menemen (Turkish-Style Scrambled Eggs)
Menemen is a beloved Turkish breakfast dish made with tomatoes, peppers, and eggs, often enhanced with cheese or Turkish sausage (sucuk). Served in a sizzling pan, it’s customarily eaten with fresh bread—no utensils necessary. Dip the bread directly into the skillet for the perfect bite. Affordable, flavorful, and perfect for any time of day, Menemen is a great introduction to Turkey’s breakfast culture.
- Urfa & Adana Dürüm
Dürüm wraps are a popular “fast food” in Turkey, made with spicy grilled meat (lamb or beef) wrapped in thin flatbread. Urfa is milder, while Adana packs a spicier punch. Inside, you’ll typically find fresh herbs, onions, and tomatoes. Whether you’re short on time or just want a quick taste of local flavors, dürüm fits the bill perfectly.
- Çiğ Köfte (Vegan “Raw Meatball”)
Once a raw-meat dish, çiğ köfte is now commonly made with bulgur, tomato paste, and spices—making it vegetarian or even vegan-friendly. It’s served either wrapped in flatbread (dürüm) or rolled in lettuce leaves, then finished with lemon juice and pomegranate molasses. Inexpensive, healthy, and bursting with flavor, çiğ köfte is beloved by everyone from students to office workers.
- Gözleme
Gözleme is a thin, savory flatbread stuffed with cheese, spinach, or potatoes and cooked on a round griddle. Crisp on the outside and soft within, it’s often enjoyed with Turkish tea for breakfast or lunch. The process of rolling out the dough and filling it right before your eyes makes Gözleme a fun and tasty street-side treat.
- Traditional Turkish Soups (Çorba)
Soup is integral to Turkish cuisine, served either as a starter or a main course. You’ll find a broad range, such as lentil (mercimek), yogurt-based soups, tripe soup, and more. Some soups include hearty portions of vegetables and meats, making them a full meal on their own. They’re particularly comforting on chilly days, but you’ll see Turks enjoying soup year-round.
- İskender Kebab
İskender Kebab features thin slices of döner meat served over bread cubes, all drenched in a tangy tomato sauce and sizzling butter. A side of yogurt often accompanies the dish, providing a refreshing balance to the rich flavors. This iconic meal traces its roots to Bursa and remains a staple throughout the country.
12 & 13. Kokoreç & Midye (Stuffed Mussels)
Kokoreç, made from lamb intestines seasoned with spices, is roasted on a spit and then finely chopped. It’s a bold choice for the adventurous foodie, boasting a crunchy outside and tender interior. Midye (stuffed mussels) are filled with rice, herbs, and spices, then topped with a squeeze of lemon. Both are extremely popular street foods that often pair well together for a quick and flavorful meal on the go.
- Tantuni
Tantuni is a Mersin-origin dish of thinly sliced beef or chicken sautéed with spices and oil, usually served in a wrap. The addition of tomatoes, onions, and peppers gives it a fresh burst of flavor, and many locals top it with a squeeze of lemon. Light, juicy, and ideal for a midday meal, Tantuni wins over many visitors.
- Lahmacun
Lahmacun is sometimes called “Turkish pizza,” though it’s thinner and crispier than its Western counterpart. A layer of minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and spices is spread over dough before baking. For extra zest, locals top it with parsley, onions, and a squeeze of lemon, rolling it up into a convenient on-the-go snack. Many shops also offer vegan or vegetarian versions made with soy “meat.”
- Turşu Suyu (Pickle Juice)
Pickle juice might sound unusual, but it’s a surprisingly refreshing drink on a hot day. Salty, tangy, and often served with bits of pickled vegetables, turşu suyu has a devoted following. There’s no middle ground with this one—people either love it or hate it. It’s definitely worth a try to see which side you’re on!
- Islak Burger (Wet Hamburger)
Islak burgers are small buns slathered in garlicky tomato sauce, then steamed to soft perfection. Although they might not look glamorous, they’re a staple of Istanbul’s street nightlife and a go-to snack for partygoers. Cheap, convenient, and messy in the best possible way, they’re a fun addition to any foodie’s must-try list.
- Künefe
Künefe is a dessert masterpiece made from shredded dough (kadayıf) stuffed with melty cheese and drenched in sweet syrup. Usually topped with crushed pistachios, it’s served piping hot so you can enjoy the contrast of crispy pastry and gooey cheese. This indulgent treat can be found everywhere from upscale restaurants to cozy neighborhood sweet shops.
- Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee is thick, rich, and traditionally brewed in a small copper pot called a cezve. It’s served in petite cups, often with a sweet treat on the side. The foam on top signals a well-made cup, and grounds settle at the bottom—perfect for reading fortunes if you’re feeling adventurous. Enjoy it with or without sugar, but always sip slowly.
- Börek
Börek is a flaky pastry that can be filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat. Eaten for breakfast or as a midday snack, it varies in shape and style—some are layered, others spiral-shaped. Pair it with a glass of hot Turkish tea and you’ll see why börek remains a comfort-food favorite among locals.
- Homemade “Lokanta” Meals
Lokantas are small, canteen-style restaurants that serve homemade dishes such as stews (türlü), chickpeas (nohut), and lentils. These places provide a glimpse into everyday Turkish cooking, featuring dishes that taste like they came straight from a family kitchen. Portions are often generous for the price, making lokantas popular with both locals and travelers on a budget.
- Simit
Simit is a ring-shaped bread covered in sesame seeds, sold by vendors pushing bright red carts or carrying trays on their heads. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s a budget-friendly breakfast or snack. Enjoy one plain or with a variety of spreads like cheese or jam. Paired with Turkish tea, it’s an iconic Istanbul experience.
- Turkish Breakfast (Serpme Kahvaltı)
Turkish breakfast is a leisurely affair, typically featuring a spread of cheeses, olives, jams, honey, eggs (often in the form of Menemen), fresh bread, and endless cups of tea. Some restaurants offer “Van Kahvaltısı,” a specialty from eastern Turkey that includes even more dishes. It’s a social event, so gather friends and family, take your time, and savor every bite.
- Baklava
Baklava is the superstar of Turkish desserts, made from layers of buttery phyllo dough filled with chopped pistachios or walnuts, then soaked in sweet syrup. Variations include chocolate baklava and a Milky version called “soğuk baklava.” Whether you prefer the classic or want to sample new twists, this treat is the perfect finale to your Turkish feast.
