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.