For a first-time visitor to Istanbul, this magnificent city may seem chaotic - not just because of the traffic and the crowds but also because of all the great options it offers from historical sites to cuisine. Whether you’re a first-timer or not, if all the delicious food options seem overbearing, just start with our list of Top 7 Turkish Staple Foods. They are sure to exceed your expectations. 

Baklava

The most famous of Turkish desserts, baklava is made of sweet flaky filo pastry layered with nuts and soaked in syrup. Baklava comes in a variety of fillings, such as pistachio, chocolate, chestnut, and kaymak (clotted cream). The best place to enjoy this Turkish delight is at Güllüoğlu in the Egyptian Bazaar. Mısır Çarşısı No. 88, Yeni Cami Arkası, Eminönü; (0212) 528 51 81

Börek

This is a crispy filo pastry usually filled with beyaz peynir (feta cheese), spinach, or minced meat. When hot and fresh, it is utterly unbeatable and a favorite on the hot meze section of any menu. Look out particularly for sigara (cigarette) böreği, which is long and thin, made with cheese and parsley, and shaped like a cigarette (hence the name).It is best enjoyed at Meşhur Sarıyer Börekçisi. Yeni Mahalle Caddesi No.50, Sarıyer; P:(0212) 242 15 39 

Etli Yaprak Sarma

In this Turkish classic, vine leaves are stuffed with minced meat and herbs, covered with yogurt, and served hot. Best enjoyed at Matbah. Caferiye Sokak No. 6, Sultanahmet; (0212) 514 61 51

Grilled Fish

Istanbul has a huge influx of fresh fish thanks to its proximity to the sea. Typical grilled fish, served at the fish restaurants that line the waterfront on either side of the Bosphorus, are whitebait, red mullet, lemon sole, sea bass, bream, and whatever else has been caught that day. The fish is usually served with freshly sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and a wedge of lemon. For the most flavorful and fresh fish, go with what’s in season. Click here to see our Top 7 Seafood Restaurants.

İskender Kebap

Named after Alexander the Great, this dish is made of thin cuts of roasted lamb spread over buttery pita bread, which is then topped with a savory tomato sauce, a drizzle of butter, and a dollop of yogurt. Best enjoyed at Hacıbey. Teşvikiye Caddesi No. 156/B, Teşvikiye; (0212) 231 71 34

Köfte

Köfte refers to small, grilled meatballs seasoned with spices and onions and bursting with flavor. The most commonly served köfte is ızgara, which is grilled and is a relatively simple version. The İzmir variety is served as a stew with potatoes in a tomato sauce. Peynirli literally means with cheese in Turkish; the added component of melted cheese turns köfte into a wonderful comfort food option. İnegöl is a county southeast of Bursa, and is famous for its singularly delicious variety of köfte, slightly fattier than most other types. Izgara köfte is best enjoyed at Ulus 29. Adnan Saygun Caddesi Ulus Parkı Içi; (0212) 358 29 29

Mantı

Sometimes called Turkish ravioli, mantı are tiny dumplings stuffed with meat, topped with yogurt, garlic, tomato sauce, melted butter, and red pepper powder. Whether boiled, steamed, or fried, they are always delicious and best enjoyed at Aşkana. Metehan Sokak, Türkel Apartmanı, No. 1, Ulus; (0212) 268 74 42