About this experience
It is no secret that in the tourist part of Istanbul it is difficult to find worthy Turkish cuisine at a reasonable price. We, the city residents, know the most secret places hidden from the eyes of tourists, and I will take you there. On the tour, I will teach you to love anise-flavored rakı, tell you which fish the Turks won't eat, and show you the perfect dessert for coffee. And as a keepsake, you will receive a guide to tried and tested cafes and restaurants for independent walks.
What to Expect
Getting to Know Kadıköy
We will meet at the Kadıköy pier. And to start, I will introduce you to each other. Let's go! We will talk about the ancient city of Chalcedon that once stood here. We will walk through the narrow and colorful streets and visit churches that remain as memories of the old city. And I will take you to the bazaar where you can buy local sweets, spices, and olives.
Gastronomic Joys
Well, it's time to get acquainted with the local food. I will show you the places 'for the locals', but be prepared to meet the real Turkish cuisine.
What we will do and try:
- I will teach you to enjoy rakı. And no need to say that the drink tastes like anise drops :)
- We will definitely pick mezze to your taste. After that, you are practically a local: because every Turk has their own favorite mezze.
- We will talk about fish and when it's best to eat it – because some seafood the Turks wouldn't eat out of season.
- Maybe you would like to visit one of the best wine restaurants located in Kadıköy?
- Meat lovers, are you here? I won't let you get bored, rest assured. Because kebab is not just a name. It's a culture, it's life.
- And durums and soups? I bet besides mercimek soup, you don't know anything. We will fix that. Let's try soup made from beef offal (which includes ears, eyes, brains, and tongue), kelle pacha made from lamb's feet and other parts of the body, or beyran soup made from lamb meat with a lot of spices and garlic. This experience will be memorable for you.
- And of course, we will enjoy Turkish coffee with the sweetness famous throughout Europe – Küp Griye.
We will part ways only when you are extremely full. However, I already feel responsible for your stomach. That's why at the end of the walk, I will give you a collection of the best cafes and restaurants in Istanbul, personally verified. In addition, another pleasant gift will await you as a keepsake.
Organizational Details
- Your orders at cafes and restaurants are paid for separately
- The tour is on foot, dress according to the weather and don't forget comfortable shoes