Istanbul's Street Food Scene
Istanbul has one of the world's best street food cultures. From freshly baked simit to grilled corn on the Bosphorus waterfront, food is everywhere and incredibly affordable. Here are the essential foods to try.
Must-Try Street Foods
Simit (sesame bread ring, 10–20 TL), balık ekmek (fish sandwich, 80–120 TL at Eminönü), döner kebab, lahmacun (Turkish pizza, 40–70 TL), kumpir (stuffed baked potato at Ortaköy, 80–120 TL), kokoreç (grilled intestines wrap, 60–100 TL), midye dolma (stuffed mussels, 10–20 TL each), and roasted chestnuts in winter.
Best Street Food Areas
Eminönü waterfront for fish sandwiches, Ortaköy square for kumpir, İstiklal Avenue for döner and kokoreç, Kadıköy Market for fresh seafood and local bites, and Karaköy for modern street food fusion.
Is Istanbul street food safe to eat?
Yes, Istanbul street food is generally safe. Choose vendors with high turnover (fresh food), avoid items sitting in direct sun for too long, and trust your instincts about cleanliness.