Inci Pastanesi

Istiklal Caddessi
Taksim / Beyouglu
about 3 mins walk down Istiklal, opposite Mavi Jeans

Cheap Eats

This place has been around for at least 60 years, you can figure that out quite quickly from the décor and the old news clippings. People only come here for one thing ... a plate of profiteroles with vanilla cream and covered in delicious chocolate goo!

It's always busy ... so rush in, hand over your 5 YTL, grab a dish and then sit down. Savour each mouthful and when you're done, someone else will be waiting to take your seat.

Suggest you make a plan to head to your favourite coffee shop you'll need it.

Zencefil

Kurabiye Sokak 8
just off Istiklal Passaj
up from the Spanish Institute
T: +90 2122444082

Mid Priced
Veg Menu with a fish and chicken option
Local wines
Not open Sunday / Pazar

Great location for this place. One of the only veg cafes in Istanbul with a menu that is interesting. The cool surrounds mean you can sit back and enjoy a wine with your meal but the place does get full on week nights so you may want to try to book.

The menu is all in Turkish but if you muddle through, on the staff she understands you. I've tried this place a few times now, the soups are really good served with a slice of cheese and homemade bread. Standard veg items like spinach parcels can be uninviting and snack sized, but try the bulgur risotto. Leave room and try the Zencefil Desert with a pot of 'Mediteraneo' special tea.

Its a shame that this place isn't open Sunday evenings when quiet and good is what you need!