Where to eat balik durum and kofte ekmek in Istanbul?

Turkish shawarma (döner) is quite different from what most visitors expect and often disappoints. Better to go straight for local street food: balik durum (grilled fish wrap) or kofte ekmek (meatball sandwich).

Three well-regarded balik durum spots are located on both sides of Galata Bridge: Balik Ekmek at Ragıp Gümüşpala Cad. 7B (Fatih); Lion Balık Dürüm Karaköy at Kemankeş Cad. 11 (Beyoğlu); Mario the Fisherman at Fermeneciler Sok. 63 (Beyoğlu).

For a great kofte ekmek, visit Kalite Kofte near Rumeli Fortress: Arpacı Çeşme Sok. 2, Rumelihisarı neighborhood, Sarıyer. You can combine it with a visit to the fortress itself.

Near İstiklal Avenue (Istanbul's main pedestrian street), there's a lokanta called Balkan Brothers — prices are more reasonable than most places on the avenue itself. A solid option for an affordable meal in the heart of the city.