Istanbul Vegetarian Street Food Tour in Kadıköy's Asian Side

5.0
(3 reviews)
Istanbul, Turkey

2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

- Explore Kadıköy, Istanbul's vibrant Asian-side neighborhood through a food experience designed specifically for vegetarians
- Taste a variety of authentic Turkish vegetarian specialties including mercimek köftesi, simit, börek, pickles, seasonal produce, and other local favorites
- Discover hidden food spots, historic family-run businesses, and local markets that most visitors never find on their own
- Learn how vegetables, legumes, herbs, and grains play an important role in Turkish cuisine and everyday life
- Support local businesses while exploring bustling markets, colorful streets, and traditional food shops
- Led by a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories, culture, and insider recommendations throughout the experience
- Small-group format for a personal, relaxed, and interactive atmosphere
- Perfect for vegetarians, food lovers, and curious travelers looking to experience authentic Istanbul beyond the tourist areas

What's Included

Cultural insights, stories, and local recommendations
6+ food and drink tastings, enough for a full meal
Vegetarian food tastings at carefully selected local businesses
Small-group experience
Local English and Spanish-speaking guide
Guided walking tour of Kadıköy
Additional food or drinks not included in the tasting stops
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Kadikoy Square, the Statue of Ataturk

Location Overview: The Atatürk Statue is located right in the center of Kadıköy Square (Kadıköy Meydanı), which is one of the most well-known landmarks in the district. It’s impossible to miss the statue, and it serves as the heart of the area.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Kadikoy Square, the Statue of Ataturk

    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.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Simit Sarayı Kadıköy Square

    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.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Ozcan famous pickle

    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.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Çiya Sofrası

    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.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    MaRoll Çiğ Köfte - Kadıköy

    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.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Kadıköy Produce Market

    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.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Kadikoy Merkez Borekcisi

    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.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir

    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.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by Foodprint Tours
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Tags

Private and Luxury
Walking Tours
Street Food Tours
Food & Drink
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 3 3 reviews
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