Located directly opposite the Hagia Sophia, Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi (Selim Usta) is a celebrated cornerstone of Istanbul’s dining heritage. This iconic establishment has spent over a century refining a simple signature pairing: grilled meatballs (köfte) and a white bean salad (piyaz).The meatballs are the main attraction here. Made from a fine mixture of hand-kneaded beef and lamb, they don't use heavy spices or garlic, choosing a basic seasoning of salt, pepper, and onion instead. Flame-grilled on charcoal, each piece gets a delicate outer crust while staying tender and juicy on the inside. Don't hesitate to order a second portion right away! The accompanying piyaz elevates the experience entirely. Soft white beans are dressed with pickled onions, fresh parsley, a hard-boiled egg, and a velvety tahini dressing whose gentle acidity cuts through the richness of the meat.Accompanied by warm, crusty bread to mop up every drop of juice, the meal unfolds in a lively, historic atmosphere. Though tables are close and the dining room is perpetually bustling, the long-standing floor team operates with polished, effortless efficiency, ensuring wait times remain brief. A visit to Sultanahmet without experiencing this century-old tradition is simply incomplete.