Best Places To Eat Istanbul Cheap

Discover the Top Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Istanbul with These Insider Tips

Istanbul is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. However, eating out in Istanbul can quickly add up, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable eateries, street food vendors, and local markets that offer delicious Turkish dishes without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to grab a quick bite, this guide will take you through some of the best places to eat in Istanbul on a budget. From traditional kebabs to vegetarian options, we’ve got you covered with our insider tips and recommendations.

Opening Statement

Istanbul is a city that has a rich culinary history and is renowned for its diverse range of flavors. However, it can be challenging to find affordable places to eat, particularly if you’re not familiar with the city. Fortunately, this article is here to provide you with a guide to the best budget-friendly restaurants in Istanbul.

We’ve scoured the city to find the most delicious and affordable places to eat so that you can indulge in Turkish cuisine without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for authentic dishes or something a bit more fusion, we’ve got you covered.

So, sit back, relax, and let us take you on a culinary journey through Istanbul’s best budget-friendly restaurants.

Introduction

What is Istanbul Cuisine?

Istanbul cuisine boasts a rich history of culinary influences, from Ottoman to Greek, Armenian, and Jewish. The city is famous for its kebabs, meze plates, borek, and baklava. Istanbul’s streets are lined with vendors selling traditional Turkish dishes such as simit, a sesame-covered bread ring; kokorec, a spicy lamb and offal sandwich; and pide, a boat-shaped pizza-style dish topped with meat, cheese, and vegetables.

While some of the higher-end and more touristy restaurants in Istanbul can be pricey, there are many budget-friendly options that offer equally delicious food. From street food vendors to local markets and small, family-run restaurants, Istanbul has something for everyone, regardless of your budget.

What are the Best Places to Eat Istanbul Cheap?

With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to begin when looking for the best budget-friendly places to eat in Istanbul. Our guide will take you through some of the city’s best-kept secrets, including street food vendors, local markets, and small, family-run restaurants that offer delicious Turkish cuisine at affordable prices.

Why is it Important to Find Cheap Places to Eat in Istanbul?

When traveling to Istanbul, it’s essential to have a budget in mind. However, this doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your culinary experiences. By finding cheap places to eat, you can indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine without breaking the bank. Additionally, eating at local restaurants and street vendors is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and connect with its people.

How to Choose the Best Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Istanbul?

Choosing the best budget-friendly restaurants in Istanbul can be overwhelming, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, look for places that are popular with locals. These restaurants often offer the most authentic and delicious dishes. Secondly, check the prices before you order. While many budget-friendly restaurants in Istanbul are reasonably priced, some can be more expensive than others. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. The locals are always happy to offer their advice on where to find the best food in Istanbul.

What are the Benefits of Eating at Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Istanbul?

There are many benefits to eating at budget-friendly restaurants in Istanbul. Firstly, you’ll save money, allowing you to explore more of the city’s sights and attractions. Secondly, you’ll have the opportunity to try a wider range of dishes, as budget-friendly restaurants often offer smaller portions, making it easier to sample several dishes. Finally, eating at local restaurants is an excellent way to connect with the culture and people of Istanbul, giving you a more authentic and memorable experience.

What are the Risks of Eating at Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Istanbul?

While budget-friendly restaurants in Istanbul offer affordable and delicious food, there are some risks to consider. Firstly, the hygiene standards of some street vendors can be questionable, so it’s essential to use your judgment when choosing where to eat. Secondly, be aware of food allergies and intolerances, as some dishes may contain nuts, gluten, or dairy products. Finally, be prepared for language barriers, particularly in smaller, local restaurants. However, most restaurants have menus with pictures or English translations, so you should be able to find something suitable.

Best Places to Eat Istanbul Cheap

1. Çiya Sofrası 🍴

Located in Kadiköy on the Asian side of Istanbul, Çiya Sofrası is a popular and affordable restaurant that offers traditional Turkish cuisine. The restaurant has a vast menu, including vegetarian options and dishes from different regions of Turkey. The interiors are cozy and welcoming, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. Their menu has a variety of options that cater to all tastes and budgets, starting from as low as 10 TL.

2. Durumzade 🌯

Durumzade is a small street vendor located in Eminönü, known for its delicious kebabs and dürüms (Turkish wraps). The food is prepared fresh on the spot, and the portions are generous. The prices are very affordable, with dürüms starting from just 10 TL. It’s a great spot to grab a quick bite if you’re exploring the city.

3. Adana Ocakbaşı 🍢

Adana Ocakbaşı is a family-run restaurant located in the Taksim area, known for its delicious Adana kebabs. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming ambiance, making it the perfect spot for a hearty meal after a long day of sightseeing. The prices are also very reasonable, with kebabs starting from just 18 TL.

4. Hocapaşa Pidecisi 🍕

Hocapaşa Pidecisi is a small pide (Turkish pizza) restaurant located in the Sirkeci area, near the Grand Bazaar. The restaurant is known for its tasty pides, which are cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven. The prices are very affordable, with pides starting from just 12 TL. It’s an excellent spot to grab a quick lunch or dinner if you’re in the area.

5. Kumpiristan 🥔

Kumpiristan is a popular street food vendor located in Ortaköy, known for its delicious kumpirs (stuffed baked potatoes). The portions are huge and can easily feed two people, making it a great option for couples or families. The prices are also very affordable, with kumpirs starting from just 15 TL.

6. Karaköy Güllüoğlu 🍰

Karaköy Güllüoğlu is a famous baklava shop located in the Karaköy area. The shop has been in business since 1871 and is renowned for its delicious baklava. The prices are very affordable, with a plate of baklava starting from just 10 TL. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in a sweet treat after a long day of sightseeing.

7. Pazar Food Court 🍽️

Pazar Food Court is a local market located in the Kadiköy area, offering a range of different food vendors. The market offers everything from traditional Turkish dishes to international cuisine, making it a great spot for foodies. The prices are also very affordable, with most dishes starting from just 15 TL.

8. Mantıcılar İsmet Baba 🍲

Mantıcılar İsmet Baba is a small restaurant located in the Beyoğlu area, known for its delicious mantı (Turkish dumplings). The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming ambiance, making it the perfect spot for a hearty meal. The prices are also very reasonable, with a plate of mantı starting from just 20 TL.

9. Fıccın 🍳

Fıccın is a small restaurant located in the Beyoğlu area, known for its delicious menemen (Turkish-style scrambled eggs). The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming ambiance, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. The prices are very affordable, with menemen starting from just 15 TL.

10. Kosebasi 🍗

Kosebasi is a chain of restaurants located throughout Istanbul, offering delicious Turkish cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming ambiance, making it the perfect spot for a family meal or a night out with friends. The prices are also very reasonable, with most dishes starting from just 20 TL.

11. Kara Mehmet Kebap Salonu 🍢

Kara Mehmet Kebap Salonu