Turkish Property Port

The Top Breakfast Locations in Istanbul


Turkish people have many things to be proud of, such as the rich history and beauty of their country and their unique cultural heritage. Another thing Turkish people are most proud of is their amazing breakfast culture, probably surpassing every other cuisine that exists in terms of variety and taste. For many Turks, breakfast is the most important meal of the day and they don’t like to rush this exquisite meal. Naturally, the fast pace of modern life makes it harder to enjoy a lengthy, full Turkish breakfast every morning. Still, even if only on weekends or at least Sundays, breakfast rules the day for a majority of Turkish people. If you are visiting Istanbul and want to be part of this unique cultural phenomenon, then check out our recommendations on three of the best breakfast locations in the city. These are local favorites and they will be packed, especially on the weekends. But they are totally worth a visit, because their menus will broaden your horizons in terms of what constitutes a proper breakfast. From the best cheeses, olives, bread and simit (sesame-covered Turkish bagel) to cold/grilled meats, innovative egg recipes to clotted cream, honey and jams, a full Turkish breakfast at one of these locations must be on every foodie’s to-do list.

Namlı, Karaköy

The Top Breakfast Locations in Istanbul

Namlı is a famous delicatessen/café in the hip Karaköy neighborhood. They feature over 200 types of local and imported food and breakfast at their location is a legendary experience. The family that owns and operates the restaurant has been in business since 1929, following a time-honored tradition of producing and selling the highest quality products. They even supply products to many of Istanbul’s best cafés and breakfast restaurants. Their seemingly endless selection of cold meats, cheeses and olives may confuse you at first. Just take your time, try to taste whatever appeals most to you and when full, buy some to take back home with you. Karaköy is another reason to go to Namlı, as this neighborhood has transformed drastically over the last few years. It is not only full of great cafés and designer stores, but it is also one of the most sought after places for people planning to buy Istanbul property.

Sütiş, Emirgan

The Top Breakfast Locations in Istanbul

The cornerstone of a traditional Turkish breakfast is neither the cheese and olives, nor the innovative egg dishes. For some people, the first prerequisite for a traditional breakfast is the delicious combination of clotted cream and honey. This sweet combo could easily pass for a desert in its own right. And Sütiş in Emirgan is one of the best places to try this, simply by spreading this exquisite combo on top of a fresh piece of bread or pastry. Their pastries are really fresh and tasty. The only downside is that the place is so popular during the weekends that you should be prepared to wait for a table. Our recommendation is to go during the week and also spare some time to take a walk in Emirgan Park. While digesting the delicious food, be sure to admire the mansions and luxury houses in the area, including the nearby Sakıp Sabancı Museum, where many great art exhibitions are on display.  

Çakmak, Beşiktaş

The Top Breakfast Locations in Istanbul

This is as local and down-to-earth as breakfast locations get. More affordable than other trendier options, Çakmak’s humble atmosphere may fool you at first. But this tiny spot in Beşiktaş has claimed the much-deserved title of “the place for the best menemen in Istanbul.” Menemen is the name given to Turkish-style scrambled eggs cooked with onions, tomatoes and green peppers. Together with menemen, they also bring the typical serpme (mixed) breakfast, consisting of small plates of cheese, olives, clotted cream, honey, tomatoes and cucumbers on the table. The place is usually packed, so try to arrive early. Beşiktaş is also a great place to wander around with an authentic fish market and countless shopping alternatives. It is also one of the best places to look for apartments for sale in Istanbul, because of its safety and convenient location. Beşiktaş province also sits on the top spot on the city’s quality of life index.