Taste of Istanbul: Authentic Turkish Food & Rooftop Tour

This was one of the highlights of our trip to Istanbul. We got to try a great variety of authentic Turkish dishes at several local spots that we probably wouldn’t have discovered on our own. Beyond the food, our guide shared interesting stories about the city’s history, traditions, and local culture, which made the experience even more meaningful. I’d highly recommend booking this on your first day in Istanbul. It gives you a great introduction to the city’s food scene, helps you get familiar with different neighborhoods, and you’ll leave with plenty of recommendations for the rest of your stay. Great food and an excellent way to start your visit with Sule :)

Not only was the tour incredibly authentic and delicious but I also felt I left with new friends from around the world. This is my second time visiting Istanbul and let me just say, I didn’t realize, until I went on this food tour, how much INCREDIBLE food and amazing shops I missed on my first trip to turkey. The food not only was absolutely incredible but also amazingly authentic. Particularly my favorites was the lamb kebab, the incredibly cool crisp cheesy dessert called künefe, and the Turkish delight place (I didn’t like the Turkish delight I tried on my first trip to turkey, but when I had the ones at this shop, I finally understood the hype. I instantly fell in love and had to buy some to take home with me). I really did feel like I got the WHOLE Turkish experience, especially with the help of my guide, Zey. She first off gave a very good detailed description of what was going to happen on the tour and where to meet. Then when I was running a little late she called me to make sure I knew where to go and to make sure I could still come on the tour. The way she sparked conversation really helped me along with the multiple other people on the tour grow connections and conversations all night because of it. She then took us to several great location, with detailed description of each location, such as to see the famous angry Cig Kofta man, Turkish delight, this beautiful rooftop with a gorgeous view of Istanbul, and delicious restaurant with lots of quick cook it in front of you foods. After the tour she gave lots of food recommendations and a list of the exact food and places we tried. All in all this tour is a must have if you want an authentic delicious experience

Food tour did not go ahead. No contact from the operator until I contacted them at the start time of the tour asking whether the tour was still happening. Tour operator said tour wasn’t going ahead and they could not contact me. They did offer full refund which I received promptly. It would have been nice to know they were not running the tour as I had booked it weeks in advance. Having it cancelled at the last moment prevented me from booking an alternative tour

This food tour was such a rich experience and a great way to learn about delicious Turkish dishes!!! Our guide, Sule, was extremely knowledgeable and very friendly! I would love to do this tour again one day!!!!! Outstanding!

Honestly this was one of the best experiences we had in Istanbul. Şule is amazing. From the start she treated us like friends, not just another tour group. She actually told us to call her anytime we need anything in Istanbul, which was so sweet. The food was incredible but what really made it special was Şule herself. She knows so much about Turkish food and history but she's not boring about it at all. She's funny and really passionate about everything she's sharing. We went to some hidden spots I never would have found on my own and some famous places too. I don't usually write reviews but I had to for this one. If you're in Istanbul and want to actually understand the food culture and eat a ton of delicious stuff, just book it. You won't regret it.

I frequently book food tours to gain a better understanding of the culture of the country I’m visiting, and this tour exceeded all expectations. Şüle, our guide, was a pleasure to be around, clearly sharing my love for food (and pets). She is incredibly kind and very passionate about showing her favorite food and drink spots. We first stopped at a street food shop for food that I would never thought of ordering, nor would I have ever stumbled upon the shop to begin with. We then went to a rooftop restaurant with a GORGEOUS view of Süleymaniye Mosque where we had coffee. We then went to another restaurant I would not have stumbled upon on my own where we had awesome local dishes and had more than enough food for seconds. I would highly recommend this tour for everyone interested in local cuisine :)

The host never turn off and we waited at the meeting point over 1 hour. We rang them and they still never turn off We probaly never use them ever again unless we get a full refund and apoliogy.

Joining Alara’s food tour was one of the highlights of our trip to Istanbul! From the start, she made us feel welcome, guiding us through hidden gems that tourists often miss. Experiencing the city’s cuisine from a local perspective rather than just the well-known spots made all the difference. Every stop on the tour was thoughtfully selected, offering authentic flavors. The kebab we had for dinner was hands-down the best we tasted during our entire stay—so flavorful! Beyond the food, Alara herself was a fantastic host—knowledgeable, warm, and full of great recommendations. The places she suggested for the following day ended up being some of our favorites! If you’re looking to experience Istanbul like a local, this tour is a must! Highly recommended!

It was a perfect evening!! 🤩 From start to finish, this tour exceeded our expectations. We indulged in delicious Turkish street foods and dined in a historic restaurant that oozed charm. The rooftop setting offered stunning views of Istanbul's skyline, creating a magical ambiance. Our guide's passion for Turkish food and culture was evident, making the night both educational and enjoyable. Don't miss this experience when in Istanbul!

Sule was amazing. Really nice food tour we saw the insights of turkiye and we made a new freind in Turkey!!! She was 10/10 Food was great and highlight was Sule and the crew.