Bizce Kuru Istanbul
Beans and rice
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.
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Istanbul
Kamondo Merdivenleri
Stairs from Constantinople
Despite the passage of time they continue to stand proudly, showing the spirit of Istanbul and its ability to embrace the old while welcoming the new.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Poltory Bookstore
Unique bookstore in Çukurcuma
What's even more impressive is that the Tatar and Ukranian owners of Poltory are writers themselves. You can feel the passion for literature in every nook.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Vertical
Sustainably Chic
Vertical is a food hall that boasts an eclectic array of diverse cuisines, but what truly sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to sustainability.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Klar Coffee
Great staff and delicious desserts
I am not a fan of cappuccino, but I am glad I've tried at "Klar Coffee" in Istanbul, as it might be the first time I have truly enjoyed it...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Anadolu Kavağı-Üsküdar Line
Gorgeous mansions
Who needs a pricy Bosphorus tour when there are local ferry lines? The "Anadolu Kavağı-Üsküdar Line" is perfect to see the Anatolian side of Istanbul...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Barto’s Burger Place
Love at first burger
"Barto's Burger Place" in Istanbul has already made a name for itself among the city's gourmets and burger lovers. Try their homemade cheese and sauces!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Lil Bake
Lovely spot for a sweet snack
"Lil Bake" is a small, lovely spot in the heart of Moda, Istanbul. My favorite used to be the pistachio Paris breast, until I tasted their croissants...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Yeşil Mavi Cafe
Come for the view
"Yeşil Mavi Cafe" offers you the best views of Bosphorus in Üsküdar & even across Istanbul, especially during the sunset. Get a cold drink under the trees!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Haliç Line
Best way to reach Balat
The best way to get to the beautiful neighborhood of Balat in Istanbul is to take a ferry of the "Haliç Line" - just get off at Fener Pier...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Rumeli Kavağı-Eminönü Line
Unforgettable tour
Take the ferry on the "Rumeli Kavağı-Eminönü Line" in Istanbul which goes by most popular neighborhoods on the European side! Why get stuck in traffic?
by
Cemre
Sandal
Dondurmacı Ali Usta
Perfect on a sunny day
"Dondurmacı Ali Usta" in Istanbul has a lot of ice cream flavors, and they even let you combine two flavors in one scoop. Also: very reasonably priced!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Tatar Salim Döner Lokantası
Delicious döner
"Tatar Salim" is one of the best döner restaurants in Istanbul - they only serve döner as the main dish; it's prepared with 100% specially marinated meat!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Heading to Istanbul?
236 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
✓ 236 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:
