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Pierre Loti Café in Istanbul
In Turkey, kahvalti (breakfast) is a decadent affair, with table-length spreads served. Simit forms the basis of this meal; the soft ring-shaped bread is torn and dipped in a variety of spreads. Jams typically include tangerine, apricot, fig and sour cherry. A slightly spicier concoction is also created by mixing sweet molasses with earthy tahini. There are also savory dishes, including salty olives, fragrant kaşar cheese and menemen, a rich mixture of tomatoes, peppers and eggs served in a cast-iron skillet.
Related: Everything you need to know about a complete Turkish breakfast
Extravagant breakfast buffets can be found in the Beşiktaş district along Çelebi Oğlu Street, which turns into a sort of outdoor dining hall in the early hours. A particular favorite among locals is Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu. The unassuming cafe is known for its muhlama, a rich fondue-like dish made with kolas cheese, butter and ground corn flour. For breakfast with a view, head to Pierre Loti, a spot overlooking the Golden Horn named after the famous French writer who used to work on the Eyüp Gondola.
Immerse yourself in the ancient coffee culture
Istanbul’s coffee culture began in the 16th century, when coffeehouses, or kıraathanes, opened throughout the city. The drink quickly gained popularity and the infamous Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent crowned it the “Black Pearl.” As cafes transformed into meeting places for intellectuals, diplomats and merchants, the drink and the institutions became part of Turkish culture.
Cafes still line the city’s sidewalks; locals often sit outside on plastic chairs, chatting while sipping small cups of coffee and tulip-shaped glasses of tea. Your best bet is to grab a table at the busiest spot nearest you. For those who like things a little less crowded, Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi in the Fatih district is a secluded courtyard spot that offers shisha and hot drinks. Coffee-making classes are also offered for those who want to learn more about the ritual and how to prepare the drink using a traditional cezve pot.
Immerse yourself in the street food scene
In Istanbul, it’s common to see locals rushing around and eating on the go. To cater to this lifestyle, the city has an abundance of “fast food” dishes sold at street food stalls. In the morning, you can find simit bread with sesame seeds at red-and-white striped stalls or on wooden tables outside bakeries. For a more substantial meal, head to Kadıköy Market on the Asian side of the city. Just inside the entrance is the tiny eatery Çarsi Balikçisi, famous for its balık-ekmek, a refreshing grilled fish sandwich. Lahmacun, a crispy flatbread with minced meat, onions, red peppers, parsley and lemon juice, can be found at Halil Lahmacun and Borsam Taş Fırın in Kadıköy.
Pamper your sweet tooth