Turkey is often described as a paradise for food lovers, but this story from Hamzeh Afghani takes that idea and turns it up to maximum. Over the course of 24 hours in Istanbul, the host explores street stalls, well-known local spots, and iconic Turkish flavours—while openly questioning whether the rumour is true: are prices in Turkey really “too expensive”?
The answer, at least from this experience, is complicated. Some meals feel like “a must-try” moments, others are described as surprisingly costly, and several dishes deliver strong satisfaction that goes far beyond a quick bite. If you’re planning your own Istanbul food trip and want inspiration for what to eat, how to pace your day, and what to expect—this is your guide.
Starting in Istanbul: A breakfast that felt unforgettable
The day begins with what the host calls one of the strangest experiences they’ve ever tried: a heavy, unusual Turkish breakfast plate featuring something described as “sheep stomach” (most likely stuffed with rice, based on what the host observes). The preparation is shown step-by-step—then the sandwich-like portion gets sliced and built for eating with bread, pomegranate molasses, and salt.
While the host admits they didn’t fully know what the taste would be, the reaction is surprisingly positive: they give it around a 6 out of 10 quickly, then later note it tastes better when eaten alongside yoghurt (including what’s described as Ayran). The message is clear: in Turkey, pairing matters.
A quick reality-check: “Let’s see the prices”
Before diving deeper, the host and friend (from Palestine, named Ayad) spend money and check the total. They even react to the idea that Istanbul’s food scene may be “expensive,” asking whether this is real or just rumours. Their day includes both low-ticket items and sweet-shop moments that trigger genuine surprise.
The Turkish meal that follows: rice, chicken, and chickpeas
Next comes a more familiar, comforting plate: rice with chicken and chickpeas. The host describes it as straightforward and “normal,” but the highlight here is the supporting elements—again, yoghurt is repeatedly mentioned as the perfect companion.
As they eat, they also note a Turkish staple: tea. A tea ritual appears throughout the day—“you’re not leaving until you drink tea,” as the host puts it—reinforcing how meals in Turkey often include hospitality, not just food.
Sweets and baklava-style treats: when the host got shocked
Then the journey turns sweet. In Istanbul, the host visits a stall where Turkish “kūmbe”/sesame-style cakes are discussed, with comparisons to “kəʿk القدس” (as referenced in the video) and questions about whether Istanbul sweets match that reputation. They try Turkish cake and react positively to its texture and flavour.
However, the bigger emotional peak arrives when they browse a sweets counter featuring baklava, kunafa, and other pastries. The host repeatedly says they are stunned by the prices, providing specific examples mentioned in the video such as:
- Kunafa priced at 490 lira (the host says roughly “10$” in their framing).
- Baklava with ice cream priced at 1200 lira (roughly “25$”).
- Milk-based desserts discussed as especially rich and varied.
They also order items like “tਰੀلي شيت” (described as a dessert wrap/roll), and again the host stresses how price comparisons shift their expectations. The key takeaway for visitors: if you’re sweet-tooth inclined, keep an eye on totals early.
A seaside-style sandwich: fish, pomegranate molasses, and sauce
One of the most memorable sections is the host’s craving for a famous seafood sandwich. Ayad insists they try it at a specific place—one that prepares sandwiches based on fish “like by the sea.”
The video shows the process: fish gets portioned and cleaned, then layered with bread, salad, herbs, pomegranate molasses, and additional sauces (including mention of a soy-related sauce). After assembling, the sandwich is served street-style, ready to eat outdoors.
The host reacts that the sandwich looks neatly arranged—and gives it high confidence. When it’s time to pay, they again note costs for smaller items (for example, a smaller sandwich is mentioned at 280 lira), and they compare Istanbul expenses with their home reference point.
Moving beyond Istanbul: breakfast, views, and a new town
On the second day, the group leaves Istanbul. They travel for roughly two hours and a quarter to reach a place they describe as “أزمت / ازمه”—a town with mountains, greenery, and a view over a large lake/reservoir. The shift in scenery changes the tone immediately: instead of rushing between stalls, the host focuses on a relaxed, view-first meal.
Breakfast here is described as abundant and “n’aar” (strong, delicious). They mention a table filled with items such as:
- Eggs/white items and potatoes
- Yoghurt, honey, and cream
- Olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and watermelon
- Stuffed and fried pastries, plus multiple breads
- Savoury choices including “brak/borek-like” dishes (as referenced)
One standout is a cheese described as tasting close to “fermented cheese” and is said to be very salty, balanced by sweet/honey-like elements. The host also shows enthusiasm for trying everything, while joking about the Turkish concept of “israf” (waste).
How much did it cost? The host’s bottom line
Across the two-day journey, the host shares several totals. They note that one stretch of spending leads to around 510 lira at a point, and later describe totals for the day and parking, with an ending figure around 1800 lira (roughly “37$” in their estimate). They also mention a combined spend that they frame as about $150 for two days including food and parking.
Whether you think those numbers are high or reasonable, the wider lesson stands: Istanbul can surprise you, especially once you get into sweets and sightseeing-area pricing. But with smart pacing, tea breaks, and a willingness to try local favourites, the experience can still feel deeply satisfying.
What to eat next time you visit Istanbul (based on this video)
- Turkish breakfast with yoghurt and pomegranate molasses
- Rice + chicken + chickpeas plates (simple, filling)
- Kunafa and baklava-style sweets (check prices before ordering)
- Seafood sandwiches with pomegranate molasses and sauces
Final thoughts: Is Istanbul street food worth it?
This 24-hour Istanbul food journey isn’t just about taste—it’s about expectation versus reality. The host genuinely enjoys many dishes, repeatedly highlights yoghurt and tea as essential companions, and ends with a powerful reminder that sometimes stepping away from Istanbul for nearby scenery makes the whole trip feel more meaningful.
If you’re dreaming of a premium, curated food itinerary, this video is the kind of inspiration that helps you plan smarter: build your day around meals you can enjoy slowly, set a budget for sweets, and don’t underestimate how memorable breakfast can be in Turkey.
