The Best Places to Get Mouth-Watering Baklava Treats in Istanbul
Baklava had its beginnings within the imperial kitchens of the Ottoman Empire, where a baklava usta (master) would spend a lifetime honing his skills. Baklava can be found all over Istanbul, but not all desserts are created equal, so make sure to get your baklava from these recommended spots.
1. Gaziantepli Baklavacı Bilgeoğlu
The city of Gaziantep is known for its mile upon mile of pistachio trees that produce some of the best nuts you can find in the whole country. As such, it’s no surprise that Gaziantep is also famous for its baklava filled with this Antep fıstığı (Antep pistachio). Bilgeoğlu is one of the best places in Istanbul to taste some of that Gaziantep style baklava, especially the kuru (dry) version, which is a thick and sticky baklava filled to the brim with delicious crushed pistachios. You’ll know you’ve come to the right place when you see the stack of kuru baklava in the window.
Muvakkithane Caddesi No.56 Kadıköy +90 216 336 00 49
2. Köşkeroğlu
Located in Karaköy, Köşkeroğlu sometimes lives in the shadows of Güllüoğlu, which is always filled to the brim with tourists chowing down baklava in every shape and size imaginable. More of an insider’s tip, the baklava at Köşkeroğlu has been said to taste even better because it’s not mass produced and is made in the traditional way. Make sure to try the bülbül yuvası (baklava shaped like a bird’s nest filled with nuts and thick syrup).
Mumhane Caddesi, Kat Otoparkı Altı No.2/3 Karaköy +90 212 245 52 45
3. Karaköy Güllüoğlu
Speaking of the devil, Güllüoğlu is probably the most well known producer of baklava in Istanbul and has stores all over the city. However, you have to keep in mind that the Güllüuğlu family has many members, and only a few Güllüoğlu branches still produce the kind of baklava that the family’s ancestors would be proud of. The original Güllüoğlu branch in Gaziantep as well as Güllüoğlu in Karaköy are the best places to buy baklava adhering to the traditional techniques and ingredients of a family business that began in 1871.
Rıhtım Caddesi, Katlı Otopark Altı No.3-4 Karaköy +90 212 293 09 10
4. Konyalı
Patisserie, Turkish
5. Hamdi
Restaurant, Turkish
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.