Introduction
Embark on our Secret Flavors of Istanbul for a remarkable culinary journey through Istanbul’s vibrant food culture.
This tour invites you to relish authentic local dishes as you explore the historic streets and markets around the Spice Bazaar. Uncover a side of Istanbul rarely seen by visitors and learn how Turkish cuisine has evolved through centuries, shaped by Istanbul‘s unique position as the capital of three great empires—all within the very heart of the Old City.
Begin with a local, market-style breakfast, featuring fresh ingredients sourced directly from the market, and savor traditional Turkish tea prepared just as the locals enjoy it. Indulge in artisanal Turkish sweets like baklava and katmer, fresh from wood-fired ovens. Try Istanbul’s local specialties, including kokoreç (we’ll reveal its secrets) and cağ kebabı—the original ancestor of today’s döner kebab—from the best-hidden eateries known only to locals. Visit a generations-old lokum (Turkish Delight) shop, where you’ll witness the craftsmanship behind this beloved sweet. In total, you’ll experience over 15 distinct flavors throughout the day.
Conclude your journey with a traditional Anatolian lunch, crafted in the same style central Anatolia has perfected over generations. This tour is more than just tasting food; it’s a sensory journey into Turkey’s rich culinary history that will be one of the highlights of your Istanbul experience.
Join us for a day that will enchant your palate and reveal the authentic essence of Istanbul’s Old City. Eat. Walk. Enjoy!
Highlights
- Discover why Turkish cuisine is celebrated worldwide, exploring its deep history across several empires within the iconic Old City.
- Savor over 15 of the most authentic Turkish dishes, sourced from hidden restaurants known only to Istanbul locals.
- Learn about Turkish food culture as you dine at local establishments and browse markets where locals purchase traditional ingredients for their own kitchens.
- Experience Istanbul alongside a professionally licensed, food-savvy guide who is deeply passionate about food, Turkish culture, history, and contemporary life in Istanbul.
- Start your day with a delicious outdoor breakfast near the Spice Market, with ingredients freshly sourced that morning.
- Satisfy your cravings with popular Turkish street foods from hidden gem eateries favored by locals.
- Delight in iconic Gaziantep-style baklava and other pastry delicacies baked in traditional wood-fired ovens.
- Visit a Turkish Delight shop to learn about the heritage and process behind this popular confection.
- End the day with a memorable Anatolian-style lunch, prepared with methods passed down through generations.
What to Bring & Wear
- An empty stomach and a hearty appetite!
- Comfortable, casual shoes and attire.
- Tours run rain or shine—an umbrella may be useful for short walks between food stops on rainy days.
Experience Turkey's Best
Every journey unveils new tastes, deep-rooted stories, and insights into vibrant cultures. With The Other Tour, you’re not just visiting Istanbul; you’re immersing yourself in its culinary soul. Ready to go beyond the usual tourist path and savor the hidden flavors of Turkey?
On our Secret Flavors of Istanbul Tour, we invite you to embark on a journey that delves into the heart of Turkish cuisine. This experience is an opportunity to taste, learn, and connect with Istanbul’s vibrant food scene, guided by passionate experts who know the city’s culinary landscape inside out.
Contact Us for a Quote
Join us for an unforgettable day of exploration, guided by a love for Turkey’s food and a dedication to sharing its secrets with those who seek a truly authentic experience. Eat, walk, enjoy, and discover the taste of Istanbul—let’s take this journey together!
