Discovering Ottoman Cuisine in Istanbul: A Culinary Journey

İstanbul'da Unutulmayan Bir Tat: Köfte

Köfte, a staple of Ottoman cuisine, is a must-try when visiting Istanbul. These flavorful meatballs are made from minced meat mixed with herbs and spices, and can be found in numerous variations. Whether you prefer the classic kebab-style köfte or the juicy, grilled versions, each bite offers a taste of tradition. In Istanbul, you can enjoy köfte in traditional lokantas and modern eateries, where it’s served with fresh bread, salads, and savory dips.

Recommended Place: Galeyann Restaurant

Address: Alemdar, Ticarethane Sk. No:13/b, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul
Phone: +90 (212) 513 83 90
Website: galeyann.com

Tarihi Hanlarda Osmanlı Kahvesi Keyfi

No visit to Istanbul is complete without experiencing the traditional Ottoman coffee. Turkish coffee, known for its strong and aromatic flavor, has been a cherished part of Istanbul's culture for centuries. In historic han (inns) and cafes across the city, you can enjoy this unique coffee-making method while soaking in the historic ambiance. Served in small cups and accompanied by a piece of Turkish delight, Ottoman coffee offers an authentic taste of Istanbul’s past.

Recommended Place: Sultanahmet Köftecisi

Address: Alemdar, Divan Yolu Cd. No:12, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul
Phone: +90 (212) 528 13 79
Website: sultanahmetkoftecis.com

İstanbul'un Gizli Lezzetleri: Künefe

Künefe is a decadent dessert that showcases the rich flavors of Ottoman sweets. This dish consists of shredded phyllo dough filled with gooey cheese and drenched in a fragrant sugar syrup. Often enjoyed warm, künefe is a delightful treat that combines sweetness with a savory twist. In Istanbul, you can find this indulgent dessert in specialty sweet shops and traditional bakeries, where it is prepared with time-honored recipes.

Recommended Place: Künefeci Yusuf Usta

Address: Koca Mustafa Paşa, Koca Mustafa Paşa Cd. No:1, 34096 Fatih/İstanbul
Phone: +90 (212) 528 35 12
Website: kundefeci.com.tr

Saray Mutfağından Evlere: Güllaç

Güllaç is a traditional Ottoman dessert that is often prepared during special occasions such as Ramadan. Made from layers of thin rice dough soaked in rosewater-infused milk and garnished with nuts, güllaç offers a delicate balance of flavors and textures. This dessert is a testament to the luxurious tastes of Ottoman palace cuisine, and in Istanbul, it is lovingly prepared by skilled chefs in both home kitchens and restaurants.

Recommended Place: Mendel’s Café & Bakery

Address: Akaretler, Tesvikiye Cd. No: 41/A, 34367 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
Phone: +90 (212) 263 58 94
Website: mendelsbakery.com

İstanbul'da Asırlık Tariflerle Hazırlanan Baklava

Baklava is perhaps the most famous Ottoman dessert, renowned for its rich layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup. In Istanbul, you can taste baklava made from centuries-old recipes, showcasing the artistry of Ottoman pastry chefs. Each piece is a work of art, meticulously prepared and served in bakeries and dessert shops that have been perfecting their craft for generations.

Recommended Place: Karaköy Güllüoğlu

Address: Karaköy, Kılıç Ali Paşa Mektebi Sk. No:6, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Phone: +90 (212) 292 55 52
Website: karakoygulluoglu.com

Mısır Çarşısı'nda Osmanlı Baharatları

Mısır Çarşısı, or the Spice Bazaar, is the perfect place to explore the aromatic world of Ottoman spices. This historic market is filled with colorful stalls offering a variety of spices, herbs, and blends that were used in Ottoman cooking. From sumac to saffron, you can find all the essential ingredients that add depth and flavor to Ottoman dishes. Visiting the Spice Bazaar offers a sensory journey through the tastes and smells of Ottoman cuisine.

Recommended Place: Mısır Çarşısı (Spice Bazaar)

Address: Rüstem Paşa, Hasırcı Sk. No:92, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul
Phone: +90 (212) 511 80 33
Website: misircarsisi.com.tr

İstanbul'da Tarihi Lokantalarda Osmanlı Sofrası

Dining in Istanbul’s historic lokantas allows you to experience a traditional Ottoman meal in an authentic setting. These restaurants often feature classic Ottoman dishes such as pilaf, lamb stews, and mezes. The ambiance of these eateries, combined with their adherence to traditional recipes, provides a true taste of Ottoman hospitality and culinary excellence.

Recommended Place: Hafız Mustafa 1864

Address: Hoca Paşa, Hobyar Mh. Hamidiye Cd. No:84, 34112 Fatih/İstanbul
Phone: +90 (212) 527 13 79
Website: hafizmustafa.com

İstanbul'da Osmanlı Tatlılarının Adresi

For those with a sweet tooth, Istanbul is home to several establishments where you can sample a variety of Ottoman sweets. From sticky and sweet baklava to delicate and fragrant Turkish delight, these dessert shops offer an array of options that reflect the opulence of Ottoman desserts. Each treat is crafted with care, ensuring that every bite is a sweet reminder of Istanbul’s rich culinary heritage.

Recommended Place: Asmalımescit Mado