12 Foods to Try in Istanbul’s Street Markets

As a traveler with a soft spot for food, I always believe the soul of a city lies in its streets—not in its high-end restaurants or polished cafes, but in the markets, the roadside carts, and the smoky corners where the locals gather. Istanbul, with its magical blend of East and West, offers a street food experience unlike any other. On my recent trip, I dedicated a full day (okay, maybe two) to indulging in the city's most iconic street market bites—and trust me, my taste buds are still grateful.

If you're heading to Istanbul, don't miss these 12 unforgettable street foods. They’re not just meals—they’re stories wrapped in pastry, grilled over open flames, or simmered in sweet syrup.

1. Simit (Turkish Bagel)

You’ll see these sesame-crusted rings everywhere, stacked high in glass carts all over the city. I grabbed my first simit near the Galata Bridge. Crispy on the outside and soft within, it paired perfectly with a cup of Turkish tea. Cheap, delicious, and filling—this is Istanbul’s answer to fast food.

2. Balık Ekmek (Fish Sandwich)

At Eminönü, near the water, I tried the famous balık ekmek—grilled mackerel tucked into a loaf of bread with lettuce, onions, and lemon juice. It’s simple, fresh, and served right off boats docked at the harbor. Eating this with the sea breeze on my face felt like the most local moment of my whole trip.

3. Kumpir (Loaded Baked Potato)

In Ortaköy, I found kumpir stands lined along the waterfront. These massive baked potatoes are split open and loaded with everything you can imagine—cheese, sausage, corn, pickles, olives, ketchup, mayo… the list goes on. It’s indulgent, chaotic, and absolutely satisfying.

4. Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)

Lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with spiced minced meat, herbs, and onions. It's usually rolled up with a squeeze of lemon and some parsley. I picked one up from a street cart near the Grand Bazaar and ate it while people-watching. Pure magic.

5. Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels)

This was a surprising favorite. These mussels are stuffed with herbed rice, pine nuts, and spices, then served cold with a squirt of lemon. They're sold by the dozen by vendors walking through the streets or at small kiosks. I tried one. Then five more. Then I lost count.

6. Kokoreç (Grilled Lamb Intestines)

I’ll be honest—I hesitated on this one. But after seeing the sizzling skewers on almost every corner, I gave in. Kokoreç is made from seasoned lamb intestines, chopped and grilled, then served in bread. Crunchy, spicy, and intensely flavorful, it’s not for the faint-hearted—but definitely for the adventurous.

7. Çiğ Köfte (Raw Meatballs – the vegetarian kind)

Traditionally made with raw meat, the version sold on the street is now vegetarian—made with bulgur, tomato paste, spices, and herbs. Served wrapped in lettuce or lavash with a splash of pomegranate molasses, it's refreshing and a great mid-day snack.

8. Börek (Savory Pastry)

I stopped at a tiny shop near Taksim and ordered a slice of su böreği—layers of soft pastry filled with cheese and parsley. It reminded me of lasagna but without the sauce. Börek comes in many forms, filled with spinach, minced meat, or potatoes. All delicious.

9. Tavuk Pilav (Chicken Rice)

You’ll spot these vendors with big glass boxes filled with steaming rice and shredded chicken. Served with chickpeas and sometimes ketchup (yes, really), tavuk pilav is comfort food at its finest. I grabbed a portion late at night near the Spice Bazaar—it hit the spot after a long walk.

10. Roasted Chestnuts & Corn on the Cob

Especially in cooler months, the smoky aroma of roasting chestnuts fills Istanbul’s streets. I munched on a warm bag while strolling down Istiklal Avenue. In warmer weather, the same carts often offer grilled or boiled corn instead—lightly salted and sometimes slathered in butter.

11. Turkish Ice Cream (Dondurma)

You’ve probably seen the videos—vendors in fez hats teasing customers with stretchy scoops of dondurma. The texture is unlike any ice cream I’ve had—dense, chewy, and incredibly creamy. Flavored with mastic resin and salep, it’s a fun (and funny) street experience you shouldn’t miss.

12. Baklava and Lokma (Sweet Bites)

I couldn’t leave Istanbul without sampling its legendary desserts. I grabbed bite-sized baklava from a tiny stand in Karaköy—layers of filo, pistachio, and syrup, perfectly balanced. I also tried lokma—fried dough balls soaked in syrup. Sweet, soft, and addictive.

Final Thoughts

Istanbul’s street markets are more than just food—they’re where life unfolds. People chat over tea, vendors call out their specialties, and aromas linger in the air long after the carts have packed up. Every bite tells a story, every dish connects you to the city's rich, multi-layered identity.

If you’re planning a visit, don’t rush through these markets—walk, taste, and let your senses guide you. And for those looking to make the most of this flavorful city, Istanbul tour packages often include guided market tours and tastings that offer deeper insight into the culinary culture. Whether you’re exploring on your own or booking Istanbul holiday packages for a curated experience, one thing’s for sure: your appetite will thank you.