Are you looking for the best hummus in town? Follow my lead. We are heading to Akşemsettin Street in the Fatih district of Istanbul, where a number of restaurants offer the best examples of Syrian tastes. The neighborhood hosts many migrants from Damascus, who have opted to open restaurants.
With its affordable prices and cozy atmosphere, “Buuzecedi” is my personal favorite among them. There, waiters dressed in traditional Syrian clothes greet customers, offering dishes made only of chickpeas and fava beans. The menu consists of Syrian classics -- fattoush, tabouleh, homous, and falafel. Here there is no cutlery, it is all about the pita bread and dipping. Take a piece of bread and dip into the magical land of complex carbohydrates
Mind that if you are after something fancy with an ambiance, this isn't for you. There are a few swanky Syrian restaurants around the neighbourhood though. You might take a tour around the street first and then decide where to eat.
Find your way with 241 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
													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
													With it large garden and lovely ambience, "Primitif Birahane" in Istanbul resembles 'biergartens' in Germany, though here you will find plenty of cats...
by
													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
													"Banyan" is my bar/restaurant of choice in Istanbul's Ortaköy for a drink or dinner after work. In their terrace you'll feel as if you're on a ship's deck.
by
													"Vogue Restaurant Bar" is one of Istanbul's higher end spots. The food is great, but I would recommend the signature (molecular) cocktails. How about...
by
													"Grand Bazaar" is my place to buy the best Istanbul souvenir: round, fat evil eyes! Just don't forget to bargain...
by
													"Norm Coffee" Istanbul makes me feel as if I'm in a spaceship travelling to a coffee planet every time! It's just one of my favorite spots in the city.
by
													"Forno Balat" in Istanbul has amazing breakfast -- the best scrambled eggs and open-buffet and homemade jams I've tasted in Turkey.
by
													"Groove" is my suggestion for music lovers who're in Istanbul looking for record shops! Sami, "the music doctor", will guide you through this journey...
by
													"The Letter Opener" is one of the best souvenirs to get for friends back home when you're in Istanbul and I recommend you get them from Grand Bazaar.
by
													The "Tortoise Trainer" is one of my favorite paintings to be found in Istanbul. You can see it in the contemporary/orientalist Istanbul Pera museum.
by
													Turkish Tea is had after each meal, and it's a reflection of hospitality. When in Istanbul, have it at small local tea houses in Sultanahmet.
by
241 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 241 Insider Tips