Istanbul, Turkey is a vibrant and bustling city, renowned for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and diverse food culture.

One of the best ways to explore the city’s culinary scene is by trying its famous street food, which is both delicious and affordable. Here are the 11 best street food of Istanbul:

1. Döner Kebab

The Döner Kebab is one of the most popular street food of Istanbul, and it’s not hard to see why.

This delicious dish is made from juicy, marinated meats that are grilled to perfection and served on warm pita bread, topped with fresh veggies, sauces, and spices.

The best place to try this street food classic is in the bustling area of Taksim Square.

2. Adana Kebab

The Adana Kebab is a spicy, juicy delight that is perfect for those who love bold flavors.

This dish is made with ground meat that is seasoned with red pepper, paprika, and other spices, then grilled over an open flame. It’s served on warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy garlic sauce.

The best place to try this spicy street food is in the historic district of Sultanahmet.

3. Lahmacun

Lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread that is topped with a delicious mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and spices.

This dish is often referred to as Turkish pizza and is perfect for a quick and tasty snack.

The best place to try this delicious street food is in the lively area of Kadikoy.

4. Iskender Kebab

The Iskender Kebab is a must-try for those who love the hearty and flavorful street food of Istanbul; This dish is made from juicy, succulent meats that are grilled and served on a bed of warm pita bread, topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted butter.

The best place to try this street food classic is in the historic district of Fatih.

5. Borek

Borek is a delicious pastry filled with various ingredients, including cheese, vegetables, and meats.

This flaky, buttery pastry is perfect for those who love savory snacks, and it’s a staple of Istanbul’s street food scene.

The best place to try this street food is in the bustling area of Beyoğlu.

6. Manti

Manti is a delicious dumpling dish that is popular in Turkey and other parts of Central Asia. This dish is made from small, juicy dumplings filled with ground meat and spices, then boiled or steamed to perfection.

The best place to try this street food is in the bustling area of Kadikoy.

7. Kumpir

Kumpir is a delicious street food of Istanbul that is made from large, baked potatoes that are split open and filled with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, butter, and sauces. This dish is perfect for those who love comfort food, and it’s a staple of Istanbul’s street food scene.

The best place to try this street food is in the historic district of Ortakoy.

8. Simit

Simit, street food of Istanbul, is a staple snack that’s loved by locals and tourists alike is a delicious, circular pastry that is covered in sesame seeds and served warm.

This snack is perfect for those who love sweet and crunchy treats, and it’s a staple of Istanbul’s street food scene.

The best place to try this street food is in the bustling area of Taksim Square.

9. Balik Ekmek

Balik Ekmek is a mouthwatering street food of Istanbul. that is made from fresh, juicy fish that is grilled and served on warm pita bread. This dish is perfect for those who love seafood, and it’s a staple of Istanbul’s street food scene.

The best place to try this street food is in the bustling area of Karaköy.

10. Kofte

If you’re exploring street food of Istanbul, don’t miss out on the mouth-watering Kofte, a local favorite that’s sure to delight your taste buds, that is made from ground meat that is mixed with spices and shaped into small balls.

This dish is perfect for those who love juicy and flavorful snacks, and it’s a staple of Istanbul’s street food scene. The best place to try this street food is in the lively area of Kadikoy.

11. Pide

Pide is a delicious street food of Istanbul that is similar to pizza but with a unique twist. This dish is made from a soft and chewy dough that is topped with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, vegetables, and meats.

The best place to try this street food is in the historic district of Fatih.

12. Dürüm

When it comes to unique street food of Istanbul, Dürüm definitely stands out as a delicious and memorable option, that is made from thin, soft tortillas that are filled with a variety of ingredients, including spiced meats, vegetables, and sauces. This dish is perfect for those who love portable and flavorful snacks, and it’s a staple of Istanbul’s street food scene.

The best place to try this street food is in the vibrant area of Beyoğlu.

Conclusion

Istanbul’s street food scene is one of the best in the world, offering a diverse range of delicious and affordable dishes. Whether you love juicy kebabs, flaky pastries, or spicy dumplings, there’s something for everyone in Istanbul.

So be sure to sample as much street food of Istanbul as you can when visiting this vibrant and bustling city!