Where to find most delicious Turkish pita in Istanbul
Traditional Turkish dishes: Lahmacun, minced meat (kiymali), and cubed meat (kusbasili) pita or pide. (Adobe Stock Photo)
A beloved treasure of Türkiye’s rich culinary heritage, pita (pide) continues to captivate food lovers with its crispy, oven-baked perfection. Originating from the rugged slopes of the Black Sea region, this timeless dish has found its way to the bustling streets of Istanbul, where it is reimagined with regional influences.
“Türkiye’de Is Dunyasi” magazine conducted an online poll to determine the city’s finest Turkish pita restaurants, and the results are in. Here are the top five places, chosen by the people, that have won the hearts of Istanbul’s food lovers.
Istanbul’s best Turkish pita restaurants
Neli Pide – A taste of Ordu in Kadikoy
Located on the iconic Bagdat Caddesi, Neli Pide brings the delicate flavors of Ordu to Istanbul’s bustling Asian side. With its thinly rolled dough and generous toppings, each Turkish pita is baked to crispy perfection in a traditional stone oven.
Whether you choose sucuklu (spicy sausage), kavurmali (braised beef), or peynirli (cheese), every bite transports you to the natural beauty of Ordu.
Niyazi Kesim – Samsun’s legendary pita at IstinyePark
As one of the most renowned names in Samsun’s rich pide tradition, Niyazi Kesim elevates the art of Turkish pita at its Istanbul branch in IstinyePark AVM. Here, Samsun’s famous Bafra-style pita is meticulously prepared using time-honored techniques.
Whether filled with minced meat or melted cheese, each slice leaves a lasting impression. After a day of shopping, this is the perfect place for an authentic Turkish pita experience.
Tarihi Tokat Pidecisi – Bringing the flavors of Tokat to Eyup
For those longing for the distinct flavors of Tokat, Tarihi Tokat Pidecisi in Eyup is a must-visit. Here, expertly seasoned minced meat and the region’s unique cokelek cheese are baked on crispy dough in a wood-fired oven.
The craftsmanship of the pita masters ensures that each bite carries the essence of Tokat’s culinary heritage.
Meshur Trabzon Firini – A hidden Black Sea gem in Beylikduzu
Nestled in the industrial district of Beylikduzu, Meshur Trabzon Firini is a hidden gem for those craving an authentic Trabzon pita.
Using butter sourced directly from Trabzon and its signature kavurma (braised beef), this eatery brings the true taste of the Black Sea to Istanbul. With its perfectly baked dough and rich flavors, visitors can close their eyes and imagine themselves in the heart of Trabzon.
Bafra Pide Coskun Kuru – The authentic Bafra experience in Kozyatagi
Bafra Pide, located in Kozyatagi, is one of the rare places in Istanbul that stays true to the authentic flavors of Samsun’s Bafra district. Under the masterful hands of Coskun Kuru, the Turkish pitas here are packed with rich ingredients and generous portions.
The kavurmali (braised beef) and yumurtali (egg-topped) Bafra pita are particularly renowned for their indulgent taste.
Preserving tradition, elevating taste
The results of the public vote highlight not only Istanbul’s best pita restaurants but also the city’s deep appreciation for regional culinary traditions.
From Ordu’s delicate flavors to Trabzon’s rich, buttery textures, each location on this list brings a unique taste of Anatolia to the metropolis.
As these masterful pita artisans continue to blend authenticity with innovation, Istanbul solidifies its reputation as a culinary bridge connecting Türkiye’s diverse gastronomic heritage with modern tastes.
