Istanbul stands out not only as a historical but also as a gastronomic treasure with its unique culinary culture enriched by the influence of different civilizations over the centuries. Are you ready to discover the secret taste stops preferred by the locals, which are off the touristic routes and easily accessible from Amiral Palace Boutique Hotel?
Tradesmen’s Restaurants: Original Tastes of Istanbul
Pandeli: Located on the upper floor of the Spice Bazaar, this historical restaurant, which has been in service since 1901, combines the flavors of palace cuisine with modern presentations. The lamb tandoori and eggplant puree are especially worth a try.
Hocapaşa Pidecisi: Hidden in the narrow streets of Sirkeci, this place is famous for its traditional pide recipes passed down from generation to generation. Its minced meat and cheese pide has a unique flavor because it is cooked over a wood fire.
Çiya Sofrası: Located in Kadıköy and managed by chef Musa Dağdeviren, this restaurant keeps Anatolian dishes that are on the verge of extinction alive. You can try dishes made with seasonal herbs and recipes that are on the verge of being forgotten.
Street Food: Taste of Local Life
Historical Karaköy Fish and Bread Shops: This simple but delicious street food prepared with fresh fish and bread under the Galata Bridge can be eaten with the magnificent view of the Bosphorus.
Durumzade: This small shop, also visited by Anthony Bourdain, is famous for its delicious Adana and Urfa kebabs. It is a short walk from Sultanahmet.
Kısmet Muhallebicisi: This place, which has been in service since the 1930s, is famous for its puddings, keşkül and chicken breast desserts prepared with fresh milk. Its branch in Karaköy is particularly notable for its authentic atmosphere.
Local Breakfast Experiences
Namli Gurme: This place in Karaköy is ideal for a rich Turkish breakfast. It is especially famous for its cheese varieties and homemade jams.
Emek Cafe: This hidden place in Beşiktaş is a local favorite with its traditional menemen varieties, as well as its simit, kaymak and honey trio.
Sultanahmet Börekçisi: This historical börek shop, very close to our hotel, is a great alternative for breakfast with its freshly baked su börek and pastries in the early morning hours.
Tea Gardens and Hookah Cafes
Pierre Loti Kahvesi: This historical place in Eyüp is ideal for drinking Turkish tea with a magnificent view of the Golden Horn. It is accessible by cable car.
Çorlulu Ali Paşa Madrasah: This 17th-century madrasah is now an authentic place offering a traditional hookah experience. You can smoke hookah with Turkish tea in a historical atmosphere.
Transportation from Amiral Palace Boutique Hotel
- Sultanahmet District Flavor Stops: 5-15 minutes walking from our hotel
- Karakoy and Galata District: 10 minutes by tram
- Kadikoy District: 20 minutes by ferry (from Eminonu)
- Besiktas District: 25 minutes by tram and bus combination
Tips
- It may be useful to have cash instead of a credit card at local venues
- Visiting popular venues during the week offers a quieter experience
- Don’t hesitate to chat with locals to experience Turkish coffee and tea culture
- Prefer afternoon hours to try street flavors
- Don’t forget to check the season for fish restaurants
During your stay at Amiral Palace Boutique Hotel, our reception will be happy to help you with transportation and reservations to these local flavor stops. Thanks to our hotel’s central location, don’t miss the opportunity to deeply explore Istanbul’s rich culinary culture.
Getting lost in the hidden flavor map of Istanbul is one of the most enjoyable ways to understand the spirit and culture of the city. Amiral Palace Boutique Hotel is honored to guide you on this unforgettable gastronomic journey.
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