Abroad and Hungry in İstanbul: 3 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Istanbul

Must-try foods in Istanbul

• Meşhur Süleymaniye Kuru Fasulyesi
  Meşhur Süleymaniye Kuru FasulyesiThe neighborhood's defining dish, these creamy white beans are slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. While many versions across the city include meat, the 'Erzincanlı' style iconic to the street facing the mosque is traditionally focused on the buttery texture of the bean itself. In September 2026, it remains the ultimate comfort meal.
• Sütlü Nuriye
  Sütlü NuriyeA lighter, milky alternative to traditional baklava that has seen a resurgence in the historic peninsula's dessert shops this year. It features thin layers of phyllo dough soaked in a milk-based syrup and filled with hazelnuts instead of pistachios. Its refreshing.
• Zeytinyağlı Enginar (Artichokes in Olive Oil)
  Zeytinyağlı Enginar (Artichokes in Olive Oil)A classic 'zeytinyağlı' (olive oil) dish that is a staple of late summer and early autumn menus in 2026. The artichoke hearts are braised with olive oil, lemon, peas, and carrots. It is served cold and is highly sought after at the traditional 'esnaf lokantası' (tradesmen restaurants) tucked away in the side streets of Süleymaniye for its clean.
• Etsiz Çiğ Köfte
  Etsiz Çiğ KöfteOnce a meat-based dish, the modern vegetarian version made from fine bulgur, isot (Urfa pepper), pomegranate molasses, and a complex blend of spices is now a ubiquitous street food. In 2026, local spots near the M2 metro exit have popularized 'mega wraps' featuring extra fresh mint and crunchy lettuce, making it the neighborhood's go-to quick.
• Boza
  BozaLocated just a short walk from the Süleymaniye Mosque, this fermented grain drink is a legendary local tradition. While traditionally a winter drink, in September 2026, the historic Vefa shop remains a 'must-visit' hotspot for tourists and locals alike. It is a thick, slightly tart beverage topped with roasted chickpeas and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Spinach and Cheese Gözleme
  Spinach and Cheese GözlemeA traditional Anatolian flatbread hand-rolled and cooked on a 'sac' (griddle). The version filled with fresh spinach and salty white cheese is a vegetarian favorite. Recent 2026 reviews highlight the small, family-run stalls near the mosque's outer courtyard that serve these with a side of freshly brewed Turkish tea for a perfect mid-day break.

Trip guide

• About Istanbul
  About IstanbulThe Süleymaniye district in Istanbul is defined by its 16th-century Ottoman imperial heritage and the architectural contributions of Mimar Sinan. Commissioned by Sultan Süleyman I and completed between 1550 and 1557, the Süleymaniye Mosque serves as the centerpiece of the area. This structure features a central dome 53 meters in height and 26.5 meters in diameter, supported by four semi-domes and four minarets.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit the Süleymaniye neighborhood is during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October, when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring the mosque complex and its panoramic terraces. Summer (July–August) can be uncomfortably hot and crowded with peak tourist traffic, while winter offers a quieter, atmospheric experience despite the frequent rain and wind. For food enthusiasts.
• Getting around
  Getting around Istanbul

  • M2 Metro Line Take the M2 (Green Line) to Vezneciler Station. From the station, exit toward Istanbul University and walk approximately 10–15 minutes uphill along Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Street to reach the mosque complex.
  • T1 Tram Line Ride the T1 tram to the Laleli-İstanbul Üniversitesi or Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı stops. Both stations are within a 10–15 minute walk of the Süleymaniye neighborhood, passing through the historic streets near the Grand Bazaar.
  • Walking Süleymaniye is centrally located on the Third Hill of the Historic Peninsula. It is a scenic 20-minute walk from Sultanahmet or a 15-minute uphill trek from the Eminönü waterfront and Spice Bazaar area.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Plan your visit around the five daily prayer times to avoid 30-minute closures, especially during the longer Friday midday service.
  • Dress conservatively by covering shoulders and knees, and ensure women have a headscarf ready for entry into the mosque complex.
  • Try the neighborhood's signature 'Kuru Fasulye' (slow-cooked white beans) at the historic restaurants located directly across from the mosque's main gate.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Istanbul

  • The 'Night Museums' initiative, running through October 1, 2026, allowing evening access to the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts located within the Süleymaniye complex.
  • Araf Istanbul, a newly recognized Michelin-starred restaurant (2026 selection) led by chefs Kenan and Pinar Korgan Cetinkaya, trending for its modern Anatolian flavors.
• Bayrampaşa Belediyesi↗
  Bayrampaşa BelediyesiThe official municipal website of Bayrampaşa, providing local government services and information for the district in Istanbul, Türkiye.