For lunch in Sultanahmet, the most practical options are meatball restaurants and tradesmen's restaurants; those along Divanyolu make for a quick break between museums. In Eminönü, the area around the Spice Bazaar is full of kebab houses, dessert shops and historic restaurants; the fish sandwich is this square's signature.
Karaköy is the place for baklava and breakfast, while Kadıköy is good for getting to know Anatolia's different regional cuisines. For dinner, consider the meyhanes on the Bosphorus shore and Üsküdar's waterfront restaurants at sunset.
What you need to know
- Tipping isn't compulsory; if you're happy, leave about 5–10% of the bill.
- Bread is usually brought to the table; bottled water is charged.
- There are plenty of vegetarian options among the olive-oil dishes and meze.
- Our detailed article: What to eat in Türkiye?
