A Culinary Journey through Istanbul: From Taksim to Galata

Istanbul, often cited as one of the most visited cities in the world, offers a vibrant blend of history, culture, and an unparalleled street food scene. In a recent exploration of the city, vagabond took readers on a whirlwind tour of Istanbul’s most iconic spots, focusing on the flavors that define the transition from the bustling Taksim Square to the historic Galata Tower.

The First Bite: Charcoal-Grilled Comfort

The journey began near the hotel with a traditional meal of charcoal-grilled chicken served with rice and salad. Cooked over open coals to ensure a distinct smoky flavor, the chicken was described as incredibly juicy and tender. While the locals consider it spicy, Pakistani visitors might find the heat level relatively mild, though the addition of local salt, pepper, and spices enhances the experience.

Exploring Taksim Square and Istiklal Street

No trip to Istanbul is complete without visiting Taksim Square, the heart of the city’s political and social life. From there, the famous Istiklal Street stretches out, known for its iconic red tram, shopping, and endless food options.

A staple here is the Döner, often considered a mandatory experience for any tourist. While the Döner at the square is iconic due to its location, Tabarak noted that it can sometimes be a bit dry and the portions small compared to other spots in the city. For those seeking the best Middle Eastern flavors, he reminisced that some of the finest shawarmas can be found in places like Dubai, highlighting that Istanbul’s most “touristy” spots might not always offer the peak culinary version of every dish.

History and Pilaf in Beşiktaş

Moving toward the seaside, the area of Beşiktaş (Taş Meydan) offers a more local and historical vibe. This area features the monument of Barbaros Pasha, the famous Admiral of the Ottoman Navy.

In Beşiktaş, the traditional Turkish Pilav is a must-try. This dish consists of thick-grained rice, often mixed with chickpeas and served with sides like liver (kaleji) or kebabs topped with melted cheese. A local tip for enjoying this meal is to pour “shorba” (traditional gravy or stew) over the rice to enhance the flavor.

Seafood and the Bosphorus View

As the tour continued toward Ortaköy, two unique street foods stood out:

• Midye (Stuffed Mussels): At famous spots like Midyeci Ahmet, tourists can try mussels stuffed with spiced rice and finished with a squeeze of lemon. Interestingly, these lack the typical “fishy” smell of seafood and instead offer a savory, meat-like texture.

• Kumpir (Baked Potato): Ortaköy is world-famous for its Kumpir. This massive baked potato is mashed with butter and cheese right in its skin, then loaded with an array of toppings including olives, corn, mushrooms, and pickles. It is a heavy, flavorful “saugat” (specialty) of the area.

For a sweet finish in Ortaköy, travelers can try Semolina Halva served with Ice Cream, a unique combination where the warm halva sits atop cold ice cream.

The Viral Finale at Galata Tower

The day ended at the Galata Tower, which looks particularly stunning when illuminated at night. The surrounding narrow streets are lined with decorated cafes, but the main attraction recently has been the San Sebastian Cheesecake at Vienna Coffee.

This viral dessert, which originated in Spain in the 1990s, is famous for its “burnt” caramelized exterior and creamy, custard-like center. Often served drenched in chocolate sauce, it has become a social media sensation, with visitors lining up just to take a picture of the cake against the backdrop of the Galata Tower. While a single slice can cost between 490 to 570 Lira, it is considered a “bucket list” item for many visiting Istanbul.

Traveler’s Tips

For those planning their own Istanbul adventure, Zia Tabarak offers a few pieces of advice:

• Don’t Rush: While it is possible to see many spots in one day, it is better to spread the trip over 6 to 8 days to truly feel the vibe of each location without getting exhausted.

• Use Public Transport: Parking can be difficult in crowded areas like Taksim, so utilizing the city’s trams, metros, and buses is highly recommended.

• Budgeting: Inflation has significantly changed prices in recent years; what used to cost 30 Lira a few years ago may now be much higher.

Istanbul remains a city where “every spot is a thing in itself,” offering a beautiful mix of mosques, music, and a culture that welcomes everyone.