Turkish breakfast comes in many forms. The most renowned is the lavish traditional spread, which has its origins in the Ottoman Empire when royalty enjoyed a selection of foods like cheese, jam, honey with clotted cream, bread, and olives. However, breakfast in Istanbul offers a wide variety of options. From humble cafes serving traditional Turkish tea to restaurants crafting French omelettes, our local guide is here to help you discover most recommended spots with the best Turkish breakfast in Istanbul.
Table of Contents
1. Ceviz Agaci
If you’re looking to enjoy a breakfast in the Koşuyolu area, one of the top spots to visit is Ceviz Ağacı. With one of the most extensive breakfast menus you’ll ever come across, there’s absolutely no chance of leaving the table unsatisfied here.
From delectable sausages to vegetable dishes bursting with fresh ingredients, a variety of fruits, egg dishes, and much more, this place has it all. You might even want to prolong your visit and indulge in their desserts, as they are renowned for their sweet treats.
Koşuyolu Mahallesi, Muhittin Üstündağ Caddesi, No 85, Kadıköy, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/cevizagacicom/
2. OPS Cafe
This place in Karaköy is considered one of the oldest, and it’s a spot that captivates us with its design. Every decor piece makes us think, “I’ll get that when I have my own home.”
On weekends, especially Sundays, the atmosphere here is festive. But when you mention OPS, what immediately comes to mind is their Albanian Breakfast. It’s almost like the place and this breakfast are inseparable. This breakfast platter includes aged cheddar, knitted cheese, Albanian Salad, dried meat, and sliced peppers, making it a very satisfying meal.
Especially on Sunday mornings, it’s a real treat to come here and have breakfast after a long stroll.
Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Mumhane Cd. No:45, Beyoglu, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/opscafekarakoy/
3. Privato Cafe
This place is located on the right as you come down from Tünel to Galata. On the weekends, it’s nearly impossible to find an empty table. You might have to wait for a few minutes until someone leaves. However, those minutes are well worth it for the breakfast you’ll enjoy here.
They take pride in making everything themselves, and it’s all organic. The lace tablecloths and vintage plates and cups add a charming touch that transports you back in time.
Şahkulu Mh., Galip Dede Caddesi No:3, 34420 Şişhane Beyoğlu, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/privatocafe/
4. Savoy Pastanesi
Let’s take you to Savoy, one of the addresses that has been in service since 1950 and is well known and loved not only by those living in and around Beyoğlu but also by all Istanbulites. The pleasure of breakfast is also different in Savoy, which we love very much with its delicious cookies, milk desserts, sweet and salty snack flavors and of course cakes!
Choose the ones that best suit your taste, such as bagel toast, scrambled eggs, Savoy breakfast plate or mixed breakfast, and enjoy starting the day with.
Cihangir, Sıraselviler Cd. 91/A, Beyoglu, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/savoypastanesi/
5. Feriye
Feriye is now considered one of the best places in Istanbul, offering not only a captivating view but also a menu that delights the taste buds. While Feriye is known for its appetizers and dinner options, their breakfast is an absolute must-try!
Picture this: a warm cup of tea, aromatic jams, fresh bread, and a hearty serving of menemen. This breakfast spread is so delightful that we can’t do justice by just talking about it. You’ll be thanking us for introducing you to this fantastic breakfast experience.
Çırağan Street, No:44, Beşiktaş, İstanbul, https://www.instagram.com/feriyeistanbul/
6. Lokma Cafe
Lokma is a place that won us over with its menu crafted from all-natural ingredients.
Their breakfast menu is not only rich in offerings but also boasts a fantastic view. You can discover a wide variety of breakfast options here, ranging from 100% buffalo cream to homemade organic jams, fruit salads, and meatballs.
Rumelihisarı Mahallesi, Yahya Kemal Caddesi, No 12, Sarıyer, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/lokmacafe/
7. Kulindag Dağevi
When you’re in need of a break from the bustling city of Istanbul, Kulindağ Mountain House awaits you amidst the lush greenery, far from the city noise, nestled in the peaceful forest.
This charming chalet, with its verdant surroundings and ambiance, offers a breakfast fit for champions. During the weekdays, they serve a delightful breakfast spread and plate, which transforms into an open buffet on the weekends.
You’ll find a delectable array of options, including feta cheese, fresh cheddar, Kars cheddar, curd, green and black olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, three types of salads, butter, honey, various jams, corn flakes, yogurt, potatoes, peppers, fried eggplant, boiled eggs, sautéed sausages, pastries, mixed pizza, poppy buns, herb pita, lentil pita, chocolate bread, and seasonal fruits that will keep you at the table.
Moreover, there are additional flavors to crown your breakfast, such as fried sausages, pastrami, and menemen.
Mahmut Sevket Pasa Village, Match Ditch, No: 6, Beykoz, Istanbul, https://www.kulindag.com/en/cafe.html
8. Şazeli Florya
If you’re in the Florya area or planning to visit, Şazeli is one of the tastiest places you can opt for breakfast. This place is renowned for its butcher and delicatessen products, and when you discover the wide range of options they offer, you’ll find yourself returning not only for their grills but also for their delicious breakfast.
If you particularly enjoy their serene and roomy garden, we highly recommend it!
Şenlikköy mah Halkalı, Florya Cd. D:No:10, Bakirkoy, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/floryasazeli/
9. Çeşme Bazlama
We can’t resist the Bazlama Breakfast, all the way from Çeşme, that brings smiles to the people of Istanbul.
To put it simply, our breakfast menu is anything but lacking. Restaurant offers a wide array of breakfast options, including Trabzon butter, homemade jams, Kayseri’s homemade sausages, acuka, menemen, tea, freshly baked goods, flatbread, dried fruits, and walnut-poppy katmer, to name just a few of the countless breakfast delights you can have.
Teşvikiye Mahallesi, Osman F. Seden Sk. No:8, Şişli, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/bazlama.kahvalti/
10. Forno Balat
We’re in Balat, one of the city’s most nostalgic neighborhoods. Despite many places opening and closing around it, it still stands as the best in Balat. Forno is described as a place where people can take a break from the constant hustle and bustle of life, feeling as if time has stopped.
Their lahmacun and pizzas are standout dishes, but don’t miss their weekend open buffet breakfasts. You’ll find a delightful spread of organic jams, fruit salad, cucumbers, buffalo cream, acuka, olive paste, fried eggs, stone oven eggs, and a wide variety of cheeses that should definitely make it onto your plate. They also offer irresistible pastries that you won’t be able to resist, especially the crispy buttered croissants, warm pita breads, homemade bread, and warm bagels, which are the stars of this breakfast.
Balat Mahallesi, Kireçhane Sokak, No 13. Fatih, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/fornobalat/
11. Mums Cafe
Now, let’s talk about Mums Cafe, a place that breathes new life into the world of mixed breakfasts.
We adore this spot for its peaceful Sunday vibes, the cozy homely atmosphere, and its breakfast options that truly stand out. They offer a wide range of delights, from sourdough bread to homemade jams, tahini and molasses, cold cuts, a surprising variety of cheeses, olives, fluffy pancakes, and a tempting selection of homemade jams that you simply must try. This breakfast has it all!
And if you want to keep the pleasure going, don’t miss their daily freshly made desserts.
Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi, Mumhane Street, French Passage Street, No 1/16-17, Beyoğlu, Istanbul , https://www.instagram.com/mumscafe/
12. Kuff
When it comes to Nişantaşı, Balat, or Karaköy, we’re ready to hop on a ferry and head to Kadıköy for the sake of a good breakfast! Our destination is Yeldeğirmeni, a neighborhood in Kadıköy that’s infused with art and adorned with cozy spots. Kuff, known for its warm neighborhood vibes and breakfasts, is our go-to place.
Our absolute favorite at Kuff is the village breakfast, and it’s famous for drawing in crowds on both weekdays and weekends. They also offer an alternative to this breakfast, featuring cheeses like Ezine and Erzincan tulumu: the Street breakfast with bagels. Beyond the breakfast options that cater to your hunger and preferences, make sure to try their delicious coffees—it’s the cherry on top!
Rasimpaşa Mahallesi, Karakolhane Caddesi, No 54/B, Kadıköy, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/kuff.yeldegirmeni/
13. Zapata Bakery
Now, in Kadıköy, we’re making our way towards Moda, and we’ve arrived at Zapata Bakery. This spot is well-loved by the locals for its diverse selection of sourdough bread, but today, we’re here for a scrumptious breakfast.
The menu here boasts fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, greens, various cheeses, olives, aromatic pastries, homemade jams, and many more delicious options. You’ll also find various breakfast choices featuring deli products. With offerings like omelets, menemen, or delectable treats on bread, you might have a tough time deciding which breakfast to go for at this place.
Caferağa Mahallesi, Şevki Bey Sokak, No 31, Kadıköy, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/zapatabakery/
14. Brekkie Croissant & Cookie
If you’re tired of the same old breakfast options and are looking for something different, then Brekkie is the place for you. The delightful aroma of butter, wafting from meters away, already tantalizes your taste buds, even in its simplest form. But when it’s combined with such colorful breakfast dishes, the taste is truly satisfying.
Their savory croissants, flavored with ingredients like avocado, smoked meat, or asparagus, are elevated to another level with a wonderful sweet and salty sauce.
Osmanağa, Yoğurtçu Park Cd No:24/1, Kadıköy, İstanbul, https://www.instagram.com/brekkiemoda/
15. Cafe Cadde
For those familiar with Bagdat Street, Cafe Cadde is a must-visit spot any time of day. If you’d like to start your day here, let’s dive into the restaurant’s breakfast menu. They offer a variety of options, including pancakes drizzled with honey, chocolate sauce, and fresh seasonal fruits, brioche with raspberry sauce, honey, sweet cream, smoked turkey, and Kars cheddar on a croissant, hearty bowls filled with healthy ingredients, delicious choices with bagels and eggs, as well as classic and shared breakfast options. In short, they have a wide range of breakfast dishes to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss out!
Erenköy, Caddebostan Mahallesi, Bağdat Cd. No: 349, Kadıköy, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/cafecadde_official/
15. Baylan
It’s safe to say that Baylan, in service since 1923, is one of the most delightful places for a weekend breakfast, especially at its branch in Bebek with its stunning view! Besides the traditional Baylan breakfast plate, which includes olives, cheese, cucumbers, organic tomatoes, cream, village eggs, butter, and honey, you can also savor delicious croissants, oatmeal, and avocados. The choice is all yours to make.
Bebek Mahallesi, Cevdetpaşa Caddesi, No 52/54, Beşiktaş, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/baylanistanbul/
16. The House Cafe
The Ortaköy branch of The House Cafe, is one of the most charming branches in the city. With the sea breeze in the air, there are plenty of breakfast options to choose from at this location. Whether you prefer a light breakfast plate, various egg dishes like sausage and cheddar cheese toast, fried eggs, omelettes, and menemen, a breakfast platter for two, or a smaller breakfast plate, they have something to please every palate. If you want to make your choice or secure a reservation, be sure to check out the address below as soon as possible.
Yıldız, Ortakoy Salhanesi Sk. No:1, Beşiktaş, İstanbul, https://www.instagram.com/thehousecafe/
17. Lacivert
Lacivert is not only one of the most stylish spots in the city but also a top choice for a special weekend breakfast, thanks to its breathtaking view. Before you head there, don’t forget to make a reservation at this popular place. Once you’re seated, you’ll find a wide range of hot and cold breakfast options awaiting you. Breathe in the invigorating sea breeze and savor the full flavor of the weekend. Enjoy your time!
Anadolu Hisarı, Körfez Cd. 57/A, Beykoz, Istanbul, https://www.instagram.com/lacivertrest/
