Heading to Istanbul Tomorrow..Any 'Must Try' Foods?

16 years ago

We are in Copenhagen, Denmark where my son was married Saturday. Tomorrow we are off to Istanbul for a few days (his bride is Turkish.)

Just wondering if any of you have traveled there and if there are any dishes or foods, spices or kitchen items that I should try not to miss.

When DH traveled to Spain on business last year you encouraged me to have him bring back saffron & a big paella pan. Thought you might be able to offer some tips. Thanks!

BTW - Food/restaurants in Denmark are crazy expensive by American standards! My favorite local food item so far has been the hearty dark breads.

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Comments (9)

Ideefixe
16 years ago
I love Virtual Tourist for these questions. People post great tips.

Here is a link that might be useful: Istanbul local food
scotland1
16 years ago
The food was similiar to Greek food. The only thing that stood out was the fish the fishermen fried on their boats and tossed up to you. It was right at the Galata bridge. The egyptian bazarr was also near the bridge, and a must see for anyone interested in food.
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centralcacyclist
16 years ago
How exciting! I have no suggestions but am looking forward to photos and culinary details on your return.
compumom
16 years ago
It's been 30 years since I was there, but I remember that the food was very good! Especially the mezes-- appetizers were delicious!
annie1992
16 years ago
No clue at all, but congratulations to your son and his new wife. And to you, of course, what a wonderful reason for a trip.

Yes, I'll also be watching for pictures and descriptions. All I think of when I think of turkish food is coffee and those little jelly/candy things we called turkish delight. Probably not turkish at all....

Annie
jessyf
16 years ago
'Midnight Express'......

(have fun and ditto on pictures)
mustangs81
16 years ago
No suggestions but BOY am I jealous!! I was in the planning stages for a trip to Turkey with the help of a colleague out of our Istanbul office. I planned for months and swore everyone to secrecy as it was a surprise to DH. Then one night he was up very late involved in a movie.

Me: When are you coming to bed I asked.
DH: I have to finish this movie.
Me: What are you watching?
DH: "Midnight Express", what a hell hole, I'd never go to Turkey!

He is a history nut and would have loved what I had planned; but the plans are on the shelf as I lost my job.

Congratulations on your new DIL and the fabulous trip.
User
Original Author
16 years ago
Thanks all for the well wishes. I am writing from Istanbul where the food is wonderful! I will never remember the names of the dishes,but I will try to post pics/descriptions of some of the meals we had when I get home.

I can't compare this city to any other I've been to. Let me say that having just been to Denmark, I don't think I could have come to a place more contrasting in food, sights and culture.

For those of you considering a trip here - Do It! I am a reluctant traveler - nervous about safety, being understood in a foreign country, etc. I have to say that Istanbul is a city rich with history but with all the modern ammenities. The people have been warm and gracious and many speak English.

Today we are touring the Spice Bazaar, which is what prompted me to check in to CF. I can't wait!
readinglady
16 years ago
I think the most beautiful place in the world (for me) is Selcuk, Turkey in the early morning. Summertime and donkeys laden with reeds, rural women with head-scarves and long printed robes over trousers, charcoal kilns, peach orchards, the ruins of the Temple of Artemis. Storks on top of Greek pillars.

It's funny that I don't remember the food. What I remember most is mint tea served in small glasses. Of all the "foods" of Turkey that seems the most quintessential, just sitting drinking endless glasses of tea.

Carol

Heading to Istanbul Tomorrow..Any 'Must Try' Foods?

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Heading to Istanbul Tomorrow..Any 'Must Try' Foods?

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