Why Istanbul is the perfect city for a sweet comparison
Istanbul is famous for blending eras—old-world charm alongside modern energy. That same contrast comes alive in the desserts shown in Travel with Bero – سافر مع بيرو, where a classic Turkish treat is matched against a newer trend. The result isn’t just a tasting; it’s a playful “old vs new” challenge that makes you rethink what you expect from flavour, texture, and presentation.
The classic pick: Ayva Tatlısı with kaymak
The video kicks off with a sweet that feels deeply traditional: Ayva Tatlısı—a Turkish quince dessert—paired with kaymak. It’s described as something the presenter has tried “from a long time”, suggesting a comfort-food favourite with a recognisable, classic taste.
In terms of the experience, the video hints at the appeal of familiar Turkish desserts: rich, comforting, and rooted in heritage. Even before you taste it, the combination of warm fruit sweetness and creamy kaymak sets expectations that feel timeless.
Now for the modern challenge on Istiklal Street
Then comes the exciting twist: a modern, trendy dessert tried “on Istiklal Street” (İstiklal Caddesi), one of Istanbul’s most lively areas for strolling, people-watching, and discovering what’s new in food culture.
The video specifically notes that this newer sweet looks different and tastes different—something you can’t ignore when you’re comparing two desserts side by side. For food lovers, this part of the story is the thrill: the street setting, the trending vibe, and the sense that Istanbul is always adding a new chapter to its culinary scene.
Old vs new: what’s the real difference?
While both desserts are Turkish in spirit, the video emphasises that the difference is big—first in appearance, then in taste. That’s what makes this challenge so engaging: it isn’t just about which dessert is “better”, but how tradition and trends can produce noticeably different experiences.
And then, with a wink (and a “surprise ending” tone), the presenter suggests that one of the two sweets was more surprising than the other. The video invites viewers to imagine being faced with both options and making the choice themselves—classic comfort or modern curiosity.
Which would you choose? Classic or trendy?
The final question is simple—and deliciously hard to answer:
- Pick the old: Ayva Tatlısı with kaymak—familiar, traditional, and comforting.
- Go for the new: a modern trending dessert on Istiklal Street—distinct in look and flavour, with a surprise factor.
Whatever your choice, the message is clear: Istanbul’s food scene rewards curiosity. You can enjoy heritage sweets and still leave room for the next trending bite.
Plan your own Istanbul “dessert showdown”
If you want to recreate the spirit of this video on your next trip, consider building a day around contrast:
- Start with a traditional Turkish dessert such as quince dessert with kaymak (as featured in the video).
- Head to Istiklal Street for a modern, Instagram-worthy option—somewhere that reflects Istanbul’s current food trends.
- Compare texture and flavour as well as appearance—because the video highlights how dramatic the differences can be.
Make it effortless with Sakina Tours
Want Istanbul’s best experiences to feel seamless from start to finish? With Sakina Tours, you can turn a food-focused itinerary into a properly curated day—so you can spend less time planning and more time tasting. From iconic neighbourhoods to enjoyable cultural moments, we help you experience Istanbul in a way that matches your style.
Choose your route: classic comfort, modern trending flavours, or—best of all—both.
