Best Market in Istanbul: 1 Must-Try Spot

Istanbul Street Food Adventure with Chasing a Plate

If you’re craving Istanbul street food, this vlog by Thomas & Sheena from Chasing a Plate is your ticket to the city’s tastiest, most unusual bites. In just 17 minutes they dive into Kadıköy on Istanbul’s Asian side and uncover the best local flavors that you simply can’t miss.

The Heart of Kadikoy: A Local‑Favorite Market

Kadıköy is a bustling neighbourhood where cafés, bars, and tiny shops line the streets. It feels like living in a residential hub but with a culinary edge that pulls you right into Istanbul’s food culture. In this episode, the hosts focus on breakfast—the best Turkish breakfast in Kadikoy—and give us an inside look at how locals start their day.

Muḥlama: The Cheese Fondue of the Black Sea

• What it is: A creamy blend of cheese, butter, and cornmeal that melts into a thick, oozing sauce.
• Why it’s special: It’s made with generous amounts of butter—think “fondue on steroids” according to Thomas—and served hot over fresh bread.
• How it tastes: The buttery richness pairs perfectly with the sharpness of hard white cheeses (beyaz peynir) and the freshness of olives, cucumber, and tomato.

The vlog captures the moment when Thomas shows off a behind‑the‑scenes shot from the kitchen, revealing just how much butter goes into creating that signature gooey layer on top. It’s a visual treat that makes you want to taste it right away.

Things to Do in Istanbul: Explore Kadikoy Beyond Food

• Stroll through the market stalls and sample street‑style snacks.
• Visit local cafés for a traditional Turkish tea (çay) – the drink of choice at any time of day.
• Check out nearby bars for an evening vibe after your breakfast feast.

Kadıköy’s residential feel makes it easy to blend in with locals while still enjoying the vibrant street‑food scene. The vlog highlights how this neighbourhood is a perfect example of Istanbul’s diverse culinary landscape, blending influences from across Turkey.

Where to Eat in Istanbul: Must‑Try Spots

While the vlog focuses on breakfast, Thomas & Sheena hint at other hidden gems in Kadikoy that you should keep an eye out for:

• Authentic Turkish cheese shops offering a range of hard and soft cheeses.
• Traditional cafés where you can sip çay while watching the city bustle.
• Street stalls that serve up quick bites between market hours.

These spots embody the essence of Istanbul’s food culture—simple, hearty, and deeply rooted in local traditions.

Pro Tips from Chasing a Plate

• Arrive early for breakfast: The best Turkish breakfasts are served fresh, so getting there before the crowds ensures you don’t miss out on the muḥlama.
• Bring your own bread: While the vlog shows them scooping muḥlama onto ready‑made slices, having a basket of warm pita or Turkish bread gives you the full experience.
• Try the çay: A cup of strong Turkish tea balances the richness of the cheese fondue and is an essential part of any Istanbul meal.

Ready to Taste Istanbul?

Whether you’re planning a trip or just daydreaming about flavors, this vlog offers a clear window into Istanbul’s best street food. From the gooey muḥlama to the bustling market vibes of Kadikoy, every bite tells a story of the city’s diverse past and vibrant present.

Explore more of Istanbul’s culinary treasures on TravelBubu.com—your ultimate guide to where to eat in Istanbul and beyond!