GeziBilen · Digital Guide
Istanbul, with its famous Turkish cuisine and the scent of spices rising from its historical bazaars, invites gastronomy enthusiasts to an unforgettable taste journey.
1. Pandeli Restaurant
The historical Pandeli Restaurant at the entrance of the Spice Bazaar offers both western and Turkish cuisine. Opened in 1926, this place is one of the places where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk gave special orders. Its menu includes various cold, hot dishes and traditional main courses.
2. Vefa Bozacı
Founded in 1876, Vefa Bozacisi is located in the Fatih district of Istanbul and is famous for boza, a fermented beverage consumed especially in the winter months. Also popular are must and grape vinegar. The shop stands out with its historical atmosphere and is full of bottles of boza.
3. Merkez Efendi Meatball Restaurant
Merkez Efendi Köftecisi in Zeytinburnu is famous for its special meatballs by Rahmi Usta, which was moved to Istanbul from a meatball shop that opened in İnegöl in 1917. Located next to the Merkez Efendi Mosque, an Ottoman relic, the venue offers a traditional meatball-piyaz experience.
4. Historical Sultanahmet Meatball Restaurant (Master Selim)
Opened in 1920 and located in Sultanahmet, this place is famous for its meatballs. It offers side dishes such as piyaz, salad and pilaf. It is known for its historical atmosphere and the photos of famous visitors on the walls.
5. Haci Abdullah Restaurant 1888
Hacı Abdullah Restaurant, which has been in service since the end of the 19th century, focuses on Ottoman cuisine. Over the years, the venue has been opened to the public from the palace kitchen and has become a place famous for its flavors.
6. Kanaat Restaurant
Kanaat Restaurant, opened in Üsküdar in 1933, is known for its milk desserts and home cooking. It is famous for its large seating area and rich menu. Meat dishes, olive oil dishes and desserts stand out on the menu.
7. Dry Coffee Shop Mehmet Efendi
Located in Fatih, near the Spice Bazaar, this historic coffee shop is famous for its freshly ground Turkish coffee. With its small seating area and authentic atmosphere, it is a favorite stop for tourists and locals alike.
8. Saray Muhallebisi
Saray Muhallebicisi, located on Istiklal Street, is known for its milk desserts and sherbet desserts. It is a historical flavor spot in Beyoğlu.
9. Mandabatmaz
Mandabatmaz, opened in 1967 on Istiklal Street, is famous for its Turkish coffee. It is known for its coffee with foam so thick that "the buffalo won't sink" and offers an authentic Turkish coffee experience prepared with traditional methods.
