Ayaküstü Lezzetler in İstanbul: 6 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Istanbul

Must-try foods in Istanbul

• Cağ Kebabı
  Cağ KebabıA trending favorite in 2026, this Erzurum-origin horizontal spit kebab features marinated lamb cooked over a wood fire. Unlike the vertical döner, it is sliced into thick, succulent pieces and served on small skewers with lavaş bread and spicy ezme.
• Balık Dürüm
  Balık DürümA modern evolution of the classic fish sandwich, this 'fish wrap' has become the ultimate 2026 street food. Grilled mackerel is seasoned with a secret spice blend, wrapped in thin lavaş with caramelized onions and greens, and toasted over charcoal.
• İskender Kebab
  İskender KebabAn iconic masterpiece consisting of thinly sliced döner meat laid over pieces of warm pide bread. It is famously drenched in hot tomato sauce and browned sheep's butter, served with a side of thick, tangy yogurt.
• Serpme Kahvaltı
  Serpme KahvaltıThe quintessential Turkish breakfast spread. In 2026, 'Van-style' breakfast houses remain the trend, featuring dozens of small plates including kaymak (clotted cream) with honey, spicy sucuk eggs, various olives, and unlimited black tea.
• Mantı
  MantıTiny, handmade Turkish dumplings typically filled with spiced ground meat. They are topped with a garlic-yogurt sauce and a drizzle of melted butter infused with Aleppo pepper and dried mint, creating a comforting, multi-layered flavor.
• Kokoreç
  KokoreçA traditional late-night street food consisting of spiced lamb intestines wrapped around sweetbreads and grilled horizontally. It is finely chopped with tomatoes and green peppers, then served in a crispy half-bread or quarter-loaf.

Trip guide

• About Istanbul
  About IstanbulIstanbul, located on both the European and Asian continents, is a city with a documented history spanning over 2,500 years. Originally established as Byzantium in approximately 660 BCE, it later served as the capital for the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires under the name Constantinople before being renamed Istanbul.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Istanbul is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring. Summer (July and August) can be uncomfortably hot and humid with heavy crowds, while winter is chilly and rainy but offers the lowest prices and shortest lines. For the best balance of manageable crowds and ideal sightseeing conditions, aim for late spring or early autumn.
• Getting around
  Getting around Istanbul

  • International Aviation (IST and SAW) Most travelers arrive via Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side or Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side, both serving as major global hubs with extensive bus and shuttle connections to the city center.
  • Istanbulkart Public Transit System This universal contactless smart card provides seamless access to the city's vast network of metro lines, iconic ferries crossing the Bosphorus, vintage trams, and extensive bus routes at a significantly discounted rate.
  • Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps Yellow and turquoise taxis are ubiquitous throughout the city; using apps like BiTaksi or Uber is highly recommended to ensure transparent pricing, track routes.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Purchase an Istanbulkart for seamless access to all public transport, including ferries and trams, as most systems no longer accept cash.
  • Always carry some cash in Turkish Lira for small purchases and tipping, as many restaurants do not allow adding gratuities to credit card payments.
  • Use ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi or Uber to secure official yellow taxis and ensure the meter is used to avoid common overcharging scams.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Istanbul

  • Haydarpaşa and Sirkeci Cultural Hubs: The historic train stations are completing their transformation into major cultural centers with museums and performance spaces.
  • Digital Art & Electronic Music Festival: A new city-wide debut combining AI-driven visuals and live electronic performances in historic venues.
• Beşiktaş Municipality↗
  Beşiktaş MunicipalityThe official visitor portal of the Beşiktaş Municipality, providing information on historical sites, museums, and local services for tourists in Istanbul.