Istanbul has a food and drink culture that offers flavors from around the world and the best examples of local Turkish cuisine. The city's food culture has been shaped by the fact that Istanbul has historically been a crossroads for many different cultures, resulting in a wide variety of menus. In addition to traditional Turkish dishes, Istanbul also offers influences from Arabic, Greek, Armenian and other Balkan cuisines.
One of the symbolic dishes of the city, fish bread is sold on fishing boats, especially in Eminönü and Karaköy. This simple but delicious dish is prepared by placing a piece of fresh fish between the bread and is usually served with onion and lemon. Various types of kebabs, appetizers, seafood and especially the famous Istanbul street food are also popular in Istanbul. Street food such as döner, kokoreç and stuffed mussels are served by hawkers all over the city.
When it comes to desserts, baklava and Turkish delight are inseparable parts of Istanbul's culinary culture. Baklava is especially known for its pistachio and clotted cream varieties from Gaziantep, while Turkish delight attracts attention with its various flavors and colorful appearance. In addition, traditional Turkish drinks such as boza and salep are frequently consumed by Istanbulites on cold winter days.
Café culture is highly developed in Istanbul and is an integral part of the city's social life. Historic coffeehouses, modern cafes, and tea gardens are frequented by Istanbulites and visitors to the city. These places serve traditional drinks such as tea, Turkish coffee and hookah, and people can sit and chat for hours.
Dining in Istanbul is also an activity that combines many different social and cultural experiences. From upscale restaurants to neighborhood eateries, from venues serving international cuisines to artisan eateries preserving traditional Turkish cuisine, Istanbul offers a wide range of dining options for all tastes. The city's food and drink scene has a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere that allows both locals and visitors from around the world to enjoy life in Istanbul.