Kadıköy Fish Market Food Tour & Tasting Experience

Dive into the flavours of Istanbul’s Asian side with a guided food tour through Kadıköy Fish Market, one of the city’s most vibrant culinary hubs. Set in the heart of Kadıköy, this immersive experience introduces you to everyday Turkish ingredients and street foods through hands-on tastings and local storytelling. Wander between bustling stalls and historic shops while sampling regional honey, brined olives, tangy pickles, artisanal cheeses, and iconic street snacks, gaining insight into how these ingredients shape Turkish home cooking and market culture.

Highlights

Sample local honey, olives, and cheeses from specialist market vendors
Visit traditional pickle shops offering cucumbers, garlic, tomatoes, and turnip juice (şalgam)
Taste freshly prepared midye dolma (stuffed mussels), a classic Istanbul street food
Explore stalls selling Turkish delight (lokum), dried fruits, and nut pastes
Optional sit-down tasting or lunch at iconic local restaurants
Learn about Turkish culinary traditions from a knowledgeable local guide

Practical Information

Location: Kadıköy Fish Market, Asian side of Istanbul
Duration: Approximately 2.5–4 hours, depending on tour format
Typical Tastings:
- Regional olive varieties and local honey
- Pickled vegetables and şalgam
- Stuffed mussels, simit, and lahmacun (varies by tour)
- Sweets such as lokum and dried fruits
Sit-Down Stop: Some tours include a meal at Çiya Sofrası or similar local favourites
Group Size: Small-group walking tour
Dietary Notes: Vegetarian options usually available; seafood tastings may vary
Best Time: Late morning or early afternoon for the liveliest market atmosphere
Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and arrive hungry; tastings are generous