Istanbul by Night: Local Food Tasting - Dining out in Turkish way as locals

Meet your Turkish food tour guide for a pickup at your hotel in central Istanbul and begin with drive to a bakery for a classic simit bagel. Munch on this molasses and sesame covered baked treat as you continue to a traditional kiraathane. Here, sit down for a relaxing cup of Turkish tea and watch locals deal game after game of cards. Chit chat with your guide about Istanbul until your last sip and then climb back into your minibus.  

Turkish cuisine is renown for its synergy of Mediterranean and Eastern foods. With an abundance of spices, herbs, and simple yet fresh ingredients it’s no wonder Turkish fare tantalizes taste buds. Moreover, no place does it better than the the culinary capital, Istanbul. Since Istanbul has restaurants, street vendors, and meyhanes along every street the city can be difficult and often frustrating to navigate for the best grub. Lucky for you, your local guide can help uncover the hidden gems and help you discover Istanbul’s traditional delights. 

Next, cruise to neighborhood hot spot called Ocakbaşi, where you can barbecue your own kebabs on a fired grill. Savor this delicious spiced meat as your guide explains the heritage of Turkish cuisine. Then, taste the traditional aniseed-flavored liquor, raki, a perfect aperitif. After getting a nice buzz, walk down a bustling street lined with restaurants and step into a festive meyhane to enjoy the rest of your night.

Listen to the hip live music and witness the bar’s ambiance trend from chill to high energy. As you get into the vibe, start with some tasty Turkish meze and then warm your belly with a bowl of Işkembe Çorbasi, Turkish soup. Prepare yourself for a fun evening with a cup of Turkish coffee since meyhanes can transform into parties. Finally, sip on another raki and soak up the good times before a late return to your hotel.