Dining out in a Turkish Way

Istanbul is famous for its food, but in a bustling city of 14 million, it's hard knowing where to begin the search for Istanbul's hidden foodie hotposts. On this gourmet tour, a local guide will show you Istanbul's best taverns and restaurants, and in no time, you'll see that your guide provides the missing link between tourist and traveler.  Begin your culinary adventure at Simit Bakery where you can enjoy a tasty and light Turkish bread roll covered in grape molasses and sesame seeds. Once you've picked up this local snack, it's time for a visit to the kıraathane, a local coffee shop with lots of men playing backgammon. If you're feeling lucky, try your hand, but watch out, these guys have a whole lifetime of experience playing! After relaxing over Turkish Tea, head to Ocakbaşı to enjoy a real Turkish barbecue with tasty kebabs and lots of Raki liquer. Careful, this stuff packs a punch! After filling your belly with all that meat and Raki, it's time to head to a traditional tavern with live Gipsy music. Spend the rest of the night enjoying a tasty Meze feast, it's the perfect way to cap your culinary tour! Of course, the night doesn't have to end there. If you're feeling up to it, enjoy a traditional 'İşkembe Çorbası’, also known as tripe soup. A traditional Turkish hangover cure, tripe is seen as the perfect way to soak up Raki. Alternatively, you could just complete your night with a sweet cup of Turkish Coffee.