Where to eat fresh fish and seafood in Istanbul (budget-friendly spots)?

The Rumeli Kavağı waterfront area on the Bosphorus has a dense cluster of small fish restaurants — worth asking locals which one's currently best, but the area itself is a reliable bet for fish.

Stuffed mussels (midye dolma) are a must-try Istanbul street snack, sold at many seaside spots and fish stalls.

In the Sirkeci area you can find affordable fish wraps (balık ekmek) at street stalls — pick busy spots with high turnover to make sure the fish is fresh.

In the Ortaköy and Beşiktaş districts, look for fish-filled wraps (fish shawarma-style) — a less famous but existing option in these Bosphorus-side neighborhoods.

Near Kumkapı Square, several decent fish restaurants are said to be clustered together — the neighborhood is traditionally known for its seafood dining.

At the Kadıköy Çarşı market you can buy fresh seafood and have it cooked for you right there — a solid option if you want guaranteed freshness.

The area around the Karaköy fish market (Karaköy Balık Pazarı) is worth checking for tasty, affordable fish — the whole location is seafood-oriented.