"Künefe - a local's Turkish dessert delight Hold off on that second bite of pistachio baklava, and re-think that serving of semolina halva, because there's another dessert to try in Turkey that never disappoints. It's called künefe. This sugary, crunchy slice of sweet goodness is made of white unsalted cheese, strips of phyllo dough, butter and milk. It's baked and drizzled with a generous pouring of sugar syrup and topped with the vibrant color of pistachio nuts. The best künefe is found in south eastern Turkey, but there's plenty of restaurants in Istanbul that serve this delightful dessert to guests. Best served hot with a dollop of Turkish sticky ice-cream, sharing with others is advised - that's if you can bring yourself to do so after your first spoonful."
This is about to be a wild take, but this was the BEST meal I had in all of Istanbul! That statement carries a lot of weight, but omg was this spot ever authentic and delicious.
The Adana kebap platter was served with perfectly cooked and seasoned Adana. The lamb heart was not chewy and delicious. And the soup and hot side is salsa was spectacular. I gotta say this was the only place that has food with some heat 🌶️. The beyran is very flavorful too.
It’s very unassuming but I highly recommend you give it a try. All the attention has gone to the food here and it’s exceptional. Located in a perfect spot to access by everyone too. Don’t sleep on it. Abs make sure to get the künefe, it’ll change your life.
Maryam Mubarak
Google
Stumbled across this restaurant searching for Kalle Paça soup and found it here. Delicious, filling and warm. Perfect for winter days to warm you up. The soup is made up of cow head meat and it's bone broth. Also had deliciously fresh ayran, extra salty just how I prefer.
Would recommend this place and definitely would come back when I'm back in Istanbul.
W
Google
This unassuming place served me a delicious Adana kebab at a very reasonable price. The young waiters there were also really pleasant and helpful. Too bad I was eating here alone, I would’ve loved to be able to sample more items from their menu. Card payment accepted, which was very handy.
Winzer X
Google
Really great food. We came on the recommendation of a friend and were absolutely satisfied.
Sajjad Jokar
Google
🥘 A cozy spot in the heart of Istanbul serving authentic Gaziantep flavors. The kebabs are tasty and well-portioned.
🌍 Interestingly, most of the customers are foreign — especially Korean tourists who line up just to enjoy the traditional kelle paça (head & foot soup).
🍲 Honestly, their kelle paça is one of the best in Istanbul. The texture of the meat, spice balance, and warm serving are all perfect.
🔥 The place is simple but clean and authentic — great for both dinner and a hearty soup breakfast.
Sujitra Tongta
Google
Amazing food and good price! The Beyran soup was unique and also very delicious. The lamb heart is also very delicious! We asked for a table inside because it was very cold out and they searched us for a spot. Had a good experience and the price is also not expensive at all!
William Wang
Google
Quietly amazing!! If I could give the food six stars I would. This unassuming establishment serves kebab, soup, and kunefe that sets your heart racing with excitement as you eat - it's hard to find words that capture how perfectly these dishes are executed. And the ayran deserves a special frothy mention too...just look at the photo, it's a must-try! Safe to say, no food on that table survived to see the light of day. Incredible! Will definitely circle back for another sitting!
Ilija Cetkovic
Google
We came here in order to find a place where locals go, and it did not disappoint. Unlike most restaurants in the area, the prices are very reasonable, yet the quality of the food and portion sizes are excellent. This applies to both the main courses and desserts. The lamb heart was delicious, as was the traditional Turkish dessert we ordered. The staff were friendly and welcoming!
Zak K.
Yelp
This small kabob shop near the Spice Bazaar is delightful, full of personality, and the food is plentiful and delicious. The staff are friendly and responsive. The kabobs are charcoal grilled and made to order. I highly recommend this place.