Pide is a traditional Turkish dish made of bread dough shaped like a boat. It is most often filled with a mixture of minced meat, cheese, or vegetables. Its appearance resembles a pizza. There are many regional variants, for example, the Black Sea version with butter and egg. The ideal drink for this filling meal is the salty yogurt ayran.
Lahmacun is a thin and crispy flatbread spread with a spiced meat mixture. The base of the filling is fattier minced meat complemented by finely chopped onions, garlic, tomatoes, and peppers. The mixture is manually pressed into the almost translucent dough, so the flavors combine even before baking. Cheese never belongs in the authentic recipe.
Künefe is a traditional warm dessert made of thin shreds of kadayıf dough filled with a layer of melted unsalted cheese. After baking, the whole dish is richly drenched in sweet sugar syrup. It is decorated on the surface with bright green crushed pistachios or a dollop of thick cream. Künefe must be served immediately while the cheese inside is liquid.
Karaköy Güllüoğlu is a historic Istanbul pastry shop founded back in 1843. This popular establishment specializes in traditional Turkish confectionery, offering an incredibly wide selection of different types of baklava. Customers choose their sweets here themselves directly from showcases and trays. In addition to desserts, you can also enjoy excellent Turkish tea here. Prices here are lower than in establishments in the historic center.
Midye dolma are mussels stuffed with aromatic spiced rice. This popular Turkish street food is an inseparable part of the nightlife in Istanbul and other coastal cities.
İçli köfte is a traditional Turkish stuffed meatball with a crispy shell. The outer layer consists of thin dough made from fine bulgur and semolina. Hidden inside is a rich mixture of minced beef or lamb with onions and walnuts. The dish is served hot; it is a popular street food.
Islak burger is a unique type of Turkish hamburger with a moist bun and a juicy slice of ground beef. The dish originates from Istanbul, specifically from the Taksim Square area. The burgers are prepared in advance and stored in steam boxes that ensure a constant temperature and juiciness. Islak burger is a quick, affordable, and surprisingly delicious meal.
Baklava is a sweet dessert formed by alternating layers of thin filo dough, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup. The most common fillings are pistachios or walnuts. Many nations dispute its origin, but it was perfected by confectioners in the Ottoman Empire. There are countless types and shapes of baklava; cold milky baklava is also popular.
Gaziantep Közde Künefe Kebap Salonu is an authentic restaurant in Istanbul offering the best of Turkish cuisine. The establishment honors the gastronomic legacy of the city of Gaziantep. The food here is perfectly seasoned and very cheap at the same time. On the menu, you will find grilled wings, various types of kebabs on skewers, as well as traditional soups. Reservations are not necessary, card payments are not accepted.
Közde mısır is a popular Turkish street delicacy in the form of a corn cob roasted on hot coals. Thanks to roasting over embers, the corn acquires an intense smoky aroma. The vendor wraps the hot cob in a piece of paper for you and sprinkles it generously with salt. It is an ideal cheap finger food that you enjoy best standing up or while walking.
