Once you are in Turkey, you must try our traditional mantı. In English it's called Turkish Ravioli or Turkish Dumplings. Mantı originally comes from a town called Kayseri in Turkey.
There is a legend that says that if a spoonful of mantı contains less than 40 dumpling then you are not going to be a good and skillful bride. So let's leave this to experts :)
The filling contains lamb or beef, onion, pepper and salt and is served with yoghurt on top. It is definitely one of my favorite Turkish dishes without a doubt. Especially in winter - it goes perfect with cold weather.
Sinop Mantı (Sinop is another town in northern Turkey) is slightly different because it is served half with yoghurt -with or without garlic- and half with walnut. My favorite side was definitely with walnut.
You may also try their Nokul (or "pie") in 3 options; walnut/minced/raisin. I very much liked the raisin pie.
Sinop Mantı is located in Besiktas, with all the local shops, fish markets and pubs around. It is one of the 24/7 places in Istanbul, you can spend a whole day wandering in this old neighbourhood.
If you are on the Asian part of Turkey and still want to try this delicious manti, they have another branch located in Kadikoy. You may find the address details on their website.
Find your way with 249 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Tünel, İstanbul’s 1875 funicular, and its 1883 arcade offer bookstores, restaurants and wine bars amid historic buildings with a unique atmosphere.
by
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
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
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
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
Cherrybean Coffees' humble porch hides a cavernous, living-room-cozy haven with in-house roasted brews and irresistibly delicious pastries.
by
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
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
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
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
What sets Yenikoy Kitapcisi apart is that they proudly showcase lesser-known publishing houses, celebrating diversity & creativity of the literary world.
by
When you enter Brasserie di Dante, you're greeted by an outdoor seating area surrounded by plants and trees. Even in cold weather, they have fire heaters.
by
249 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 249 Insider Tips