Once you are in Turkey, you must try our traditional mantı. In English it's called Turkish Ravioli or Turkish Dumplings. Mantı originally comes from a town called Kayseri in Turkey.
There is a legend that says that if a spoonful of mantı contains less than 40 dumpling then you are not going to be a good and skillful bride. So let's leave this to experts :)
The filling contains lamb or beef, onion, pepper and salt and is served with yoghurt on top. It is definitely one of my favorite Turkish dishes without a doubt. Especially in winter - it goes perfect with cold weather.
Sinop Mantı (Sinop is another town in northern Turkey) is slightly different because it is served half with yoghurt -with or without garlic- and half with walnut. My favorite side was definitely with walnut.
You may also try their Nokul (or "pie") in 3 options; walnut/minced/raisin. I very much liked the raisin pie.
Sinop Mantı is located in Besiktas, with all the local shops, fish markets and pubs around. It is one of the 24/7 places in Istanbul, you can spend a whole day wandering in this old neighbourhood.
If you are on the Asian part of Turkey and still want to try this delicious manti, they have another branch located in Kadikoy. You may find the address details on their website.
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
When you settle down you are greeted with a complimentary drink. Then I recommend trying their burrata as a starter, and mindblowing tiramisu as dessert.
by
Despite the passage of time they continue to stand proudly, showing the spirit of Istanbul and its ability to embrace the old while welcoming the new.
by
What's even more impressive is that the Tatar and Ukranian owners of Poltory are writers themselves. You can feel the passion for literature in every nook.
by
Vertical is a food hall that boasts an eclectic array of diverse cuisines, but what truly sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to sustainability.
by
I am not a fan of cappuccino, but I am glad I've tried at "Klar Coffee" in Istanbul, as it might be the first time I have truly enjoyed it...
by
"Lil Bake" is a small, lovely spot in the heart of Moda, Istanbul. My favorite used to be the pistachio Paris breast, until I tasted their croissants...
by
Who needs a pricy Bosphorus tour when there are local ferry lines? The "Anadolu Kavağı-Üsküdar Line" is perfect to see the Anatolian side of Istanbul...
by
"Barto's Burger Place" in Istanbul has already made a name for itself among the city's gourmets and burger lovers. Try their homemade cheese and sauces!
by
The best way to get to the beautiful neighborhood of Balat in Istanbul is to take a ferry of the "Haliç Line" - just get off at Fener Pier...
by
Take the ferry on the "Rumeli Kavağı-Eminönü Line" in Istanbul which goes by most popular neighborhoods on the European side! Why get stuck in traffic?
by
"Tatar Salim" is one of the best döner restaurants in Istanbul - they only serve döner as the main dish; it's prepared with 100% specially marinated meat!
by
"Yeşil Mavi Cafe" offers you the best views of Bosphorus in Üsküdar & even across Istanbul, especially during the sunset. Get a cold drink under the trees!
by
236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 236 Insider Tips