Bizce Kuru Istanbul
Beans and rice
Emre from Istanbul
As an Istanbul traveler, I think it is impossible for anyone to miss Ortaköy, since all guides mention the most famous attractions. However, since you are reading this to experience something more local, take half an hour to wander around the backstreets of Ortaköy, which represents a typical old style colorful neighborhood with a taste of the old. The small streets that cross Dereboyu Street are great to check some shops, try a bit of local tastes or just feel the traditional Ortaköy with the locals.
After wandering along the seaside, now it is time to cross Muallim Naci Street and walk onto Dereboyu Street. This is one of my favorite streets since I can find anything that I need here. First recommendation for lunch is Bizce Kuru (Dereboyu Street, Nr: 52, on the right hand side). They serve the best beans, of course with rice. Beans are cooked very slowly and the butter adds to the taste and smell.
You can also have yoghurt or cacik (diluted yoghurt with cucumbers) on the side. And finally try their rice pudding, just tell the waiter to add everything! Then your rice pudding comes with honey and nuts on top. By the way, having beans in the summer time when the weather is hot and humid can be exhausting afterwards.
Istanbul Spotter Emre
About this spot
Our Istanbul City Guide
Find your way with 241 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Istanbul
Zürafa No203
Excellent choice of cocktails
One of the highlights was the delicious pistachio cocktail. If you want to stay on the safe side and prefer a fruity taste, you can try Berry Bees.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Zula
Burger Heaven
The chefs of Zula know how to cook tasty burgers for sure, I go for the basic one: 100gr meat, cheddar, caramelized onion, pickle relish & truffle mayo.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Hide Arnavutköy
Hidden Garden
Cafe Hide is a perfect spot to enjoy your day and unwind as it feels like you are out of the city. If you are looking for an escape, look no further!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Fethipaşa Korusu
Panoramic Views of Bosphorus
"Fethipaşa Korusu" (or 'grove') in Istanbul offers plenty of spots from which to enjoy breathtaking views over the Bosphorus & much more... Come at sunset!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Bias Koşuyolu
Tasty and unique cocktails
Bias Koşuyolu bar and kitchen is definitely worth a visit, as they serve delicious food and drinks. Try their elegant signature cocktail Bias...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Asuman
For chocolate lovers
"Asuman" in Istanbul serves... asuman! They have lots of other delicious desserts too, but I always come back for their namesake...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Minoa Pera
A Literary Haven
The café, nestled among the bookshelves, serves as a cosy refuge where one can savour their coffee while getting lost in the pages of a newfound gem.
by
Cemre
Sandal
CRR Concert Hall
Istanbul's Cultural Hub
From internationally acclaimed jazz masters to dynamic dance performances, the CRR Concert Hall consistently offers top-notch entertainment.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kandilli Suna'nin Yeri
Bosphorus's maritime gem
Suna'nin Yeri's commitment to sourcing only the finest seafood is evident in every bite. Everything that is served here is fresh and sourced daily.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Homemade Aromaterapi
Natural and vegan products
"Homemade Aromaterapi" is a small, beautiful shop in Kuzguncuk, Istanbul. Come here for cold-pressed essential oils, cleansers, soaps, toothpaste & more!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kuzguncuk
A neighborhood with unique beauty
"Kuzguncuk" in Istanbul is a uniquely beautiful neighborhood with old colorful houses, mansions and friendly shopkeepers - a sense of connected community.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Chandeliers in Hagia Sophia Mosque
Enlightenment
The "Chandeliers in Istanbul's Hagia Sophia" have their own little recent story which is good to remember whenever you pay a visit... Lighting is key!
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Heading to Istanbul?
241 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Istanbul?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 241 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Istanbul
Our team loves Istanbul
Get to know our other Spotters from Istanbul
As featured on:
