Discover the Best Places to Eat Istanbul Cheap

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul but worried about the cost of dining? Don’t fret; Istanbul is a food lover’s paradise, with many affordable options available. From street vendors to local cafes, Istanbul has something for everyone’s palate. Here, we have rounded up the best places to eat in Istanbul that won’t break the bank.

1. 🍕 Durumzade

Durumzade, a small street food stand located in Beyoglu, is a must-visit for anyone who wants to try the famous Turkish wrap called durum. Durumzade serves the best durum in Istanbul, with prices starting at just a few lira. The wrap is filled with marinated meat, salad, and spices and is a delicious and filling meal.

2. 🍞 Çiğköftem

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, Çiğköftem is the perfect choice. This vegetarian street food restaurant has several locations throughout Istanbul and offers a unique dish made from raw meat, bulgur, and spicy tomato paste. The dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike and is a great way to experience Turkish cuisine on a budget.

3. 🍯 Hocapaşa Pidecisi

Hocapaşa Pidecisi is an affordable and authentic Turkish pide restaurant located in the Old City. The restaurant offers a variety of pide, a traditional Turkish flatbread topped with various meats, vegetables, and cheese. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

4. 🍕 Tarihi Karaköy Balıkçısı

For seafood lovers, Tarihi Karaköy Balıkçısı is a fantastic option. Located in the trendy Karaköy neighborhood, this seafood restaurant offers fresh fish and seafood at affordable prices. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a fantastic view of the Bosphorus, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

5. 🍯 Bayramoğlu Döner

No trip to Istanbul is complete without trying döner, a traditional Turkish dish made from meat cooked on a vertical spit. Bayramoğlu Döner is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, known for its delicious and affordable döner. The restaurant has several locations throughout Istanbul, so you’re never too far away from a tasty döner sandwich.

6. 🍕 Beşiktaş Pazarı

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to Beşiktaş Pazarı. This market, located in the Beşiktaş neighborhood, offers a variety of street food and traditional Turkish snacks at affordable prices. You can find everything from simit (a sesame-covered bread) to midye dolma (stuffed mussels), and the atmosphere is lively and fun.

7. 🍞 Adana Ocakbaşı

Adana Ocakbaşı is a traditional Turkish restaurant located in the Beyoğlu neighborhood. The restaurant specializes in grilled meat dishes, including the famous Adana kebab. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great spot for a hearty and delicious meal.

8. 🍯 Kumpiristan

Kumpiristan is a fun and unique restaurant that specializes in kumpir, a Turkish baked potato dish. The restaurant offers a variety of toppings, including cheese, sausage, and vegetables, and is an affordable and filling option for lunch or dinner.

9. 🍕 Dürümcü Emmi

Dürümcü Emmi is a small and cozy restaurant located in Istanbul’s Kadıköy neighborhood. The restaurant offers a variety of durum wraps, including vegetarian options, at affordable prices. The portions are generous, and the staff is friendly, making it a great spot for a quick and delicious meal.

10. 🍞 Çorlulu Ali Paşa Medresesi

Çorlulu Ali Paşa Medresesi is a historic Turkish restaurant located in the Sultanahmet neighborhood. The restaurant offers traditional Turkish dishes at affordable prices in a beautiful and historic setting. The menu includes favorites like lamb kebab, stuffed eggplant, and lentil soup, and the prices are reasonable.

11. 🍯 Marmaris Büfe

Marmaris Büfe is a small street food vendor located on Istiklal Avenue, one of Istanbul’s busiest shopping streets. The vendor offers a variety of Turkish snacks and street food, including gözleme (a savory stuffed pancake) and kumpir (a baked potato dish). The prices are affordable, and the food is delicious.

12. 🍕 Adem Baba

Adem Baba is a family-owned restaurant located in the Fatih neighborhood. The restaurant offers traditional Turkish dishes at affordable prices, including lamb kebab, stuffed grape leaves, and lentil soup. The portions are generous, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

13. 🍞 Kırlangıç Fırın

Kırlangıç Fırın is a bakery located in the Taksim neighborhood that offers a variety of affordable and delicious Turkish pastries and baked goods. The bakery is known for its simit, a sesame-covered bread that is a popular street food in Istanbul.

14. 🍯 Dürümzade

Dürümzade is a small and popular street food stand located in the Beyoğlu neighborhood. The stand offers delicious and affordable durum wraps, filled with marinated meat, salad, and spices. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a quick and delicious meal.

15. 🍕 Fıccın

Fıccın is a cozy and affordable restaurant located in the Kadıköy neighborhood. The restaurant specializes in Turkish pide, a traditional flatbread topped with various meats, vegetables, and cheese. The restaurant has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual and delicious meal.

Best Places To Eat Istanbul Cheap: FAQs

1. What is the average cost of a meal in Istanbul?

The cost of a meal in Istanbul varies depending on the location and type of restaurant. On average, a meal at an affordable restaurant can cost between 20-30 Turkish Lira (around $2.50-$4).

2. What is a typical Turkish breakfast?

A typical Turkish breakfast includes cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumber, bread, and tea. Some restaurants also serve menemen, a Turkish-style scrambled egg dish.

3. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

4. What is the most popular street food in Istanbul?

The most popular street food in Istanbul is simit, a sesame-covered bread. Other popular street foods include durum wraps, kumpir (baked potato), and midye dolma (stuffed mussels).

5. What is the best area to stay in Istanbul for food?

Some of the best areas to stay in Istanbul for food include Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, and Sultanahmet. These neighborhoods offer a variety of affordable and delicious dining options.

6. What is the national dish of Turkey?

The national dish of Turkey is kebab, a grilled meat dish typically served with rice and salad. However, Turkey has a diverse culinary tradition, and there are many other delicious dishes to try.

7. What should I avoid eating in Istanbul?

It is recommended to avoid drinking tap water and eating raw vegetables and fruits that have not been washed properly. Also, be cautious when eating street food from unhygienic vendors.

8. Is it customary to tip in Istanbul?

It is customary to tip in Istanbul, but the amount varies depending on the type of service. In restaurants, a 10% tip is usually sufficient, while taxi drivers and hotel staff appreciate a small tip.

9. What is the best way to get around Istanbul?

The best way to get around Istanbul is by using public transportation, including buses, trams, and metros. Taxis are also available, but they can be more expensive.