Your adventure begins in Kadıköy Square, where the Atatürk Statue stands at the center. This iconic landmark is the perfect meeting point to start the tour. You’ll meet your guide and fellow food lovers here before heading off to the first stop. The square is always full of energy, with cafés, shops, and bustling streets. It’s a great introduction to the vibrant Kadıköy district.

Start your tour at Simit Sarayı, where you’ll enjoy simit, Turkey’s iconic sesame-crusted bread. This crispy, circular bread is often eaten as a snack with Turkish tea, and here you’ll get the chance to experience it as locals do. Take about 15 minutes to savor your simit and chat with your guide about the history and significance of this Turkish staple.

Next, we’ll visit Özcan Famous Pickles, where you’ll try a refreshing glass of pickle juice. Known for its tangy taste and digestive benefits, this is a favorite drink among locals, especially on hot days. You’ll spend about 15 minutes here, sipping pickle juice and learning about how it’s made, along with other Turkish pickled specialties.

Your third stop takes you to Çiya Sofrası, a well-known restaurant in Kadıköy that’s famous for its traditional Turkish dishes. You’ll try barbunya pilaki, a flavorful dish made from cranberry beans, olive oil, garlic, and vegetables. Enjoy the rich and comforting flavors while your guide explains the significance of beans in Turkish home-cooked meals. Spend about 20 minutes here savoring your dish and soaking in the ambiance of this iconic eatery.

Next, we head to MaRoll to try çiğ köfte, a delicious vegetarian street food made from bulgur, fresh herbs, and spices. Served in a wrap, this dish is a perfect blend of flavors and spices. You’ll spend 15 minutes here enjoying your çiğ köfte dürüm, with your guide sharing the cultural significance of this beloved snack.

At the vibrant Kadıköy Produce Market, you’ll sample mercimek köftesi, a flavorful dish made from lentils, bulgur, and spices. This hearty, bite-sized treat is served with fresh greens and a squeeze of lemon. You’ll have 20 minutes to explore the market, try the mercimek köftesi, and learn about the fresh ingredients that make Turkish cuisine so special.

Now, it’s time to enjoy two Turkish pastry favorites at Kadıköy Merkez Börekçisi. Here, you’ll try spinach börek, a savory pastry filled with spinach and cheese, and pogaca, a soft, savory scone. These pastries are perfect for a midday snack and are a beloved part of Turkish street food culture. You’ll spend 20 minutes enjoying your börek and pogaca while learning about Turkish pastry traditions.

The final stop of your tour takes you to Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir, one of the most famous and historic shops for Turkish Delight (Lokum) in Kadıköy. Here, you’ll sample a selection of Turkish delight, a sweet treat made from sugar, starch, and various flavors like rose, pistachio, and lemon. Spend the last 15 minutes of your tour enjoying the sweetness and learning about the history of this iconic Turkish dessert.