Istanbul's vibrant street food scene is a testament to its rich culinary heritage and diverse neighborhoods. From sizzling skewers in Hocapaşa to the bustling markets of Kadıköy, each district offers unique flavors and experiences. This guide takes you on a gastronomic journey through Istanbul's most iconic street food neighborhoods, highlighting must-try dishes and establishments.
🕌Hocapaşa: A Culinary Crossroads in the Historical Peninsula
A Culinary Crossroads in the Historic Peninsula Nestled between Sirkeci and Sultanahmet, Hocapaşa is a narrow alleyway brimming with eateries that have stood the test of time. This area is renowned for its traditional Turkish dishes served in humble settings.
Şehzade Cağ Kebabı: This tiny corner shop is Istanbul’s undisputed ambassador of Cağ Kebab, a specialty from Erzurum. Unlike the vertically stacked döner, Cağ Kebab is made from marinated lamb slices skewered horizontally and roasted slowly over coals. The meat is carved into curls and served on thin metal skewers, accompanied by lavash bread, pickled onions, and Ezogelin soup. The operation is compact but perfectly timed, with the owner slicing and grilling in rhythm as skewers vanish as fast as they’re plated.
📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MhyViSizBjst7YWi6
📞 Phone: +90 212 520 52 61
Şehzade Cağ Kebabı
Kasap Osman: A beloved institution in Hocapaşa, Kasap Osman has built a loyal following thanks to its consistency, speed, and deeply satisfying flavors. Around lunchtime, a line often snakes onto the street—proof of its cult status. The beef döner here is made from carefully marinated slices of premium meat, slowly roasted on a vertical spit over wood fire until the edges crisp and the center stays tender. It's served either in soft lavash wraps or generously packed into crusty white bread, accompanied by roasted peppers and pickles. A cold glass of şalgam (fermented turnip juice) is the local pairing of choice. Fast, honest, and irresistibly flavorful, Kasap Osman is the go-to stop for locals and travelers craving a quick and authentic bite in the city's heart.
📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NeNfXYXvCXpAqoTH9
📞 Phone: +90 212 511 12 42
Kasap Osman
Hocapaşa Pidecisi: This family-run gem is famed for its traditional Turkish pide—oval-shaped flatbreads filled with everything from spiced ground beef to aged kaşar cheese and sucuk. Baked in a wood-fired oven just behind the service counter, each pide emerges blistered and bubbling, then brushed with butter before being sliced and served. The seating is minimal, the service fast, and the aromas unforgettable. Regulars often order the mixed plate to sample multiple fillings.
📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TospGNr2h36qrYTK9
📞 Phone: +90 212 527 22 38
Hocapaşa Pidecisi
🐟Eminönü Pier and Square: The Heart of Street Seafood in Istanbul
Located near the Galata Bridge and the Spice Bazaar, Balık Pazarı in Eminönü is one of the best places in Istanbul to try fresh seafood and bold street food. The area is full of energy—vendors call out to customers, the smell of grilled fish and sizzling meat fills the air, and ferries come and go on the Bosphorus nearby.
The most famous street food here is balık ekmek, or fish sandwich. It’s made with grilled mackerel, onions, lettuce, and lemon juice, all placed inside warm bread. It’s simple, delicious, and a classic Istanbul experience. But seafood isn’t the only highlight—Eminönü is also known for kokoreç, a popular dish made from lamb intestines, grilled with spices and served in bread. It’s rich, crispy, and a favorite for those who love strong, savory flavors.
Derya Balıkçısı Fish Sandwich Boats: Next to the Galata Bridge, you’ll see boats with grills making fresh balık ekmek. The fish is cooked in front of you, wrapped in paper, and ready to eat by the water. Many people enjoy standing along the sea wall while eating.
📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/djpzVMFqrSYV8CDa7
📞 Phone: +90 551 097 88 97
Derya Balıkçısı, Eminönü Fish Boats
Şampiyon Kokoreç: A well-known name in Turkish street food, Şampiyon Kokoreç has been serving its signature dish since the 1960s. At the Eminönü branch, you’ll find their famous kokoreç—grilled lamb intestines chopped on a hot griddle with oregano, chili flakes, and salt. The mixture is packed into fresh bread and handed to you sizzling hot. It’s intense, rich in flavor, and loved by locals who grew up eating it. While it might be unusual for some visitors, it’s a must-try if you want the real taste of Istanbul street food culture.
📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rArBhWh4zLxP45zv6
📞 Phone: 02125270946
🌆 Kadıköy Çarşı: Street Food in the Heart of the Asian Side
Kadıköy Çarşı is one of the liveliest neighborhoods on the Asian side of Istanbul. It’s a mix of market stalls, small shops, and local eateries. The streets here are full of color, sound, and the smell of sizzling food. Whether you’re visiting for lunch, an afternoon snack, or a casual evening meal, this is one of the best places to enjoy Istanbul’s modern street food culture.
Here, you’ll find everything from crispy lahmacun to spicy mussels, refreshing pickles, and new-generation wraps prepared by creative chefs. Most spots offer quick service and outdoor seating or counter space.
Halil Lahmacun: A local legend, Halil is known for serving thin and crispy lahmacun (Turkish-style pizza) baked in a stone oven. Topped with spiced minced meat, herbs, and sometimes a squeeze of lemon and parsley, it’s simple and satisfying.
📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zULpFsMpE2aoTtnUA
📞 Phone: +90 216 337 99 79
Halil Lahmacun*
Kadıköy Midyecisi: Famous for stuffed mussels (midye dolma), Kadıköy Midyecisi is always busy—especially in the evening. Each mussel is filled with seasoned rice, pine nuts, and cinnamon. Locals eat them one after another with lemon squeezed on top.
📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nB8b2XroGWC7LgCa8
📞 Phone: +90 216 330 05 47
Kadıköy Midyecisi*
Basta! Street Food Bar: Basta! is a modern street food concept created by two chefs who used to work in fine dining. Their handmade dürüm wraps are filled with grilled meats, vegetables, and homemade sauces. Try the lamb wrap with smoked eggplant or the seasonal veggie options. It's a fresh, fast, and exciting twist on classic Turkish flavors.📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RZnc3neNUXQHPFHH7
📞 Phone: +90 216 414 08 65
Basta Street Food Bar
🏺 Kadınlar Pazarı: A Taste of Anatolia in Istanbul
Kadınlar Pazarı, located in Istanbul’s Fatih district, is a vibrant square known for its strong Southeastern Turkish culinary roots. Often called the “Siirt Bazaar,” it’s lined with butcher shops, spice stalls, and restaurants serving authentic dishes from Bitlis, Siirt, and Diyarbakır. This is the place to explore bold, slow-cooked flavors and traditional recipes rarely found in more touristic areas.
Siirt Şeref Büryan: Established in 1892, this historic restaurant is famous for its büryan kebabı, a traditional lamb dish cooked slowly in a deep stone-lined pit oven. The result is melt-in-your-mouth meat with a signature smoky aroma, served on thin lavaş or rice. Many guests also order perde pilavı, a baked rice dish with chicken, almonds, and currants. With over 130 years of heritage and consistent quality, Bitlisli Şeref remains a cornerstone of Anatolian cuisine in the heart of Istanbul.
📍Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8LfNUk8o7XX9oqNBA
📞Phone: +90 212 525 35 81
Bitlisli Şeref Büryan 1892
