No trip to Istanbul is complete without tasting or taking home Turkish delight, known locally as lokum. This beloved treat, with its delicate, chewy texture and wide array of flavors, has been a part of Turkish culture for centuries. If you’re wondering where to find the best Turkish delight in Istanbul, look no further. Here’s a guide that will satisfy your sweet tooth and help you discover the most reputable spots in the city for this classic confection.
- Hafiz Mustafa 1864 – The Legendary Favorite
- Koska – A Family Tradition
- Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir – The Pioneer of Turkish Delight
- Cemilzade – A Hidden Gem
- Saray Muhallebicisi – More Than Just Dessert
- Mısır Çarşısı (The Spice Bazaar) – An Experience Like No Other
- Grand Bazaar – A Historic Adventure
- Tips for Buying the Best Turkish Delight in Istanbul
1. Hafiz Mustafa 1864 – The Legendary Favorite
Hafiz Mustafa 1864 is synonymous with high-quality Turkish delight in Istanbul. With a history dating back over 150 years, this confectioner is famous for preserving traditional recipes while experimenting with new flavors and techniques.
• What to Try: The pomegranate and pistachio lokum is a best-seller, but you can’t go wrong with their classic rose or lemon varieties.
• Location: Multiple locations, including their flagship store in Sirkeci, near the historic railway station.
• Pro Tip: Visit during the late afternoon for fewer crowds and a chance to sample freshly made delights.
2. Koska – A Family Tradition
Koska is one of the most trusted names in Turkish delight, with roots going back to the early 1900s. Their stores offer a wide range of flavors, from traditional options to modern interpretations, and they pride themselves on using high-quality ingredients without artificial additives.
• Must-Try Flavors: Double-roasted pistachio and hazelnut lokum for a nutty twist.
• Where to Find It: Visit their flagship store in the Laleli neighborhood or various branches throughout the city.
• Insider Tip: You can sample different flavors before buying, making it easier to pick your favorites.
3. Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir – The Pioneer of Turkish Delight
Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir is credited with inventing Turkish delight in the 18th century, making this the oldest lokum shop in Istanbul. The original store in Eminönü is a must-visit for history buffs and dessert lovers alike.
• Top Picks: Stick to their traditional varieties like plain, rose, and orange flavors to experience the authentic taste of Turkish delight.
• Location: Hamidiye Cad. No:83, Eminönü.
• Historical Fact: The brand has been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance in Turkish culinary history.
4. Cemilzade – A Hidden Gem
For those who prefer a more artisanal approach, Cemilzade offers boutique-style Turkish delight, known for its unique flavor combinations and attention to detail. They are particularly known for their use of natural fruit essences and premium nuts.
• Try This: The lokum infused with clotted cream (kaymaklı lokum) is an indulgent choice, perfect for those who want something rich and flavorful.
• Location: Nişantaşı, a fashionable district known for its upscale shopping and dining.
• Why Go?: If you want to sample less common flavors, such as cherry and fig, Cemilzade is the place to go.
5. Saray Muhallebicisi – More Than Just Dessert
While Saray Muhallebicisi is well-known for its traditional Turkish puddings and sweets, their Turkish delight also holds its own. This spot combines a charming café experience with the chance to buy lokum to take home.
• What to Order: Pair your Turkish delight with a serving of their famous rice pudding or baklava for a complete Turkish dessert experience.
• Location: Istiklal Avenue, Beyoğlu, with additional branches throughout the city.
• Fun Fact: Saray has been serving Istanbulites for over 80 years, making it a beloved local institution.
6. Mısır Çarşısı (The Spice Bazaar) – An Experience Like No Other
The Spice Bazaar in Eminönü is not just a place to shop; it’s an experience that will tantalize all your senses. Here, you’ll find many stalls selling Turkish delight, allowing you to taste a variety of flavors and compare quality.
• What’s Unique: Vendors often make custom boxes, so you can mix different flavors to suit your palate.
• Best Vendors to Try: Look for stalls with high customer ratings or seek out the ones recommended by locals.
• Pro Tip: Be prepared to negotiate a bit on the price, and don’t hesitate to ask for samples before making a purchase.
7. Grand Bazaar – A Historic Adventure
The Grand Bazaar is another iconic shopping destination where you’ll find Turkish delight vendors around nearly every corner. While this bustling market is often busy, the experience of hunting down the best lokum amid the vibrant stalls is unmatched.
• What to Look For: Check out shops that make their Turkish delight fresh on-site for the best quality.
• Must-Try Stall: Şekerci Cafer Erol is one of the most well-known vendors in the Grand Bazaar, loved for its rich, authentic flavors.
• Shopping Tip: Be prepared to haggle, and make sure the lokum is fresh by checking its texture and aroma.
8. Tips for Buying the Best Turkish Delight in Istanbul
• Taste Before You Buy: Most shops will offer samples, so don’t be shy about tasting before making a purchase.
• Look for Quality Ingredients: High-quality lokum should be made with natural sugar, without artificial sweeteners or preservatives.
• Texture Matters: Good Turkish delight should be soft and chewy, not overly firm or sticky.
• Pack Wisely: If you plan to take Turkish delight home, ensure it’s packed in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Conclusion
Istanbul is filled with shops and stalls that serve up some of the finest Turkish delight in the world. Whether you choose a legendary establishment like Hafiz Mustafa 1864, visit the original Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir, or discover hidden gems like Cemilzade, each bite of this delightful treat will make your experience in Istanbul even sweeter. Don’t forget to try different flavors and bring a box home as a delicious reminder of your trip to this incredible city.