Safa Istanbul
A Pistachio Lover's Katmer Stop
Cemre from Istanbul
Safa is a dessert shop located in the Mısır Çarşısı, and it's a family favorite introduced to me by my father, a fellow dessert lover. While Safa has several branches, this particular one stands out for us because it has the best katmer master among its branches. The katmer here is cooked to perfection, with just the right texture. We've tried other branches, but none match this one, as the cooking technique plays a crucial role in the flavor. However, keep in mind that on Sundays, the master is off, so the quality may differ.
Antep katmeri is made with a very thin, almost transparent dough filled with Antep pistachios, sugar, clotted cream, and butter. It’s a standalone dessert, with no syrup or extra sweeteners added after cooking. The sweetness comes from the sugar melting into the pastry during the baking process.
While traditionally enjoyed at breakfast or on special occasions, I find it perfect for an afternoon or evening treat. Finding it before 3 p.m. on weekends at Safa can be hard. The portions are quite big, so consider sharing if you are not particularly a dessert lover.
Though Safa offers other traditional desserts, we only visit for the katmer, where the balance of sugar, butter, and cooking is ideal. The version in Antep often has more clotted cream, but I prefer Safa’s lighter take. The shop isn’t large, but it has seating available on the upper floor.
Istanbul Spotter Cemre
About this spot
Our Istanbul City Guide
Find your way with 250 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
Küff Kolektif Cafe
Eatery Bar Cafe in Bahariye
Küff Kolektif with its fairy lights, eclectic décor, and a bustling vibe, serves diverse dishes and playful cocktails in a chic, garden-like setting.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Demeti Cihangir
Dining At The Balcony
Make sure you try the fried aubergines in tomato garlic sauce, zucchini fries, taramasalata, and mom's style fries. All are delicious!
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Tünel Geçidi Pasajı
Arcade in Taksim
Tünel, İstanbul’s 1875 funicular, and its 1883 arcade offer bookstores, restaurants and wine bars amid historic buildings with a unique atmosphere.
by
Ayşim
Genç
The Church of St. Mary Draperis
Church in Taksim
Discover a quiet, Byzantine-inspired sanctuary behind modest doors. The Church of St. Mary Draperis is an easy-to-miss yet unique and peaceful escape.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Black Mustache
Bookstore in Moda
Black Mustache is a modest place packed with rare, outstanding art and culture books, plus indie-designed stationery that makes you wanna browse on.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Sayla Mantı
Turkish Dumpling Restaurant
The unassuming, small restaurant Sayla Mantı, serves delicious hand-made mantı in the İstanbul style. One of the most reliable spots for fresh mantı.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Yoğurtçu Park
Park in Moda Kadikoy
Yoğurtçu Park is a lively and green escape with spots courts, playgrounds, a beautiful view over the canal and a crowd of friendly strays and locals.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Cherrybean Coffees
Roastery in Moda Istanbul
Cherrybean Coffees' humble porch hides a cavernous, living-room-cozy haven with in-house roasted brews and irresistibly delicious pastries.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Moda Tea Gardens
Tea Gardens in Moda Istanbul
Overlooking the Bosphorus, Moda Tea Gardens is such a realaxing place. Enjoy the tea, sea breeze and sunsets beneath lantern-lit trees in Istanbul’s heart.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Moda Pier
Coastal café in Moda Istanbul
Ready for a stunning seaside, history and excellent coffee? Moda Pier Café in Istanbul has it all, while life unfolds around you, from ferries to playful dogs.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Petra Bebek
Cozy Garden Café
The outdoor area is perfect for warm or hot weather, with a mix of deck chairs, regular tables, and a shared table, all adding to its inviting atmosphere.
by
Cemre
Sandal
The Bench with a poet
A Poetic View of Istanbul
The bench itself, though simple in design, provides a comfortable and inviting place to rest. Sit in silence, read a book, or watch the world go by...
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Heading to Istanbul?
250 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 250 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:
