Previously described as a "throat comfort," genuine Turkish pleasure or lokum has a chewy texture and is sweet, but not as sweet as it is made to be in western markets. This delectable treat has charmed people for generations, even appearing in works of high literature such as C.S. Lewis' 'The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe.' Arslan, the lion's name, is derived from the Turkish word for lion.
If you're interested in what it is about these sweets that have stolen the hearts of people for ages, you must try some of the best Turkish Delights in Istanbul, so keep reading.
The best Turkish delicacy in Istanbul is difficult to come by – but not impossible. This article will showcase ten of my favourite places to acquire true Turkish delight. Some of these are family-owned businesses that have been making real Turkish delights for over a century. Some are near tourist sites, while others provide free samples on the premises.
1. Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir
This confectionery was founded in 1777 and is the oldest provider of Turkish delight, if not the oldest enterprise in Turkey. Five generations later, the recipes for its sensual brilliance, Turkish delight, are still kept in their original shop in Eminönü. Perhaps it's the antique building's retained characteristics, or perhaps it's the way the Turkish delights are designed to seem like a chessboard; this restaurant has that weird, romantic vibe.
The warm, welcoming personnel, on the other hand, adds to the beautiful, luxurious ambience. If Julia Roberts' character from Pretty Woman stepped in here, she would be greeted warmly.
The chocolates are arranged behind the glass as if on the set of Chocolate. Take a seat and appreciate the Cinderella atmosphere of this boutique treasure if you wish to feel classy.
2. Hafız Mustafa
Hafız Mustafa serves some of Istanbul's best Turkish delight.
Anyone who hasn't heard of this shop cannot claim to be a connoisseur of the chewy delicacies. This store was founded in 1864 by Hacı İsmail Hakkı Bey and is named after his son. After earning 11 medals in Europe in the domains of pastry and confectionery, Hafız Mustafa inherited his father's career.
Even though you can grab a present, it is far better to sit and consider whatever items from the menu you want to sample. Although the world has changed, this traditional establishment's use of high-quality raw materials has not.
They choose sugar beets over glucose because they refuse to follow the glucose trend. They also utilize natural fruit extracts to colour their cuisine rather than chemicals that may trigger hyperactivity in some people. You can't miss out on this if you want a treat without any nasty gunk.
3. Şekerci Cafer Erol
Turkish coffee is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed, and this place is no exception. Whether you grab and go or find a table upstairs to couple your dessert with the perfect coffee, this is a location where you should take your time deciding what you want. Simply because this is a one-of-a-kind location where you can find everything sweet, and we mean everything.
They have everything from the salep's warm embraces to the most traditional Turkish pastries you've ever heard of. There are other cakes in the French style. Furthermore, there is something in every colour. There's a treat for you if you just consume purple-coloured meals, for example. This includes Turkish delights.
Şekerci Cafer Cafer Erol, founded in 1807, has a 'fortune teller' vibe to it. They enjoy decorating and attending numerous events. If you're ever in Istanbul during the holiday season, skipping this would be like skipping the Blue Mosque. A lovely, dreamy dessert.
4. Hicipoğlu Şekerleme
If you're looking for an 'American dream' narrative to pitch to Hollywood, ask the 6th generation owners of this location about their family history. Mustafa Efendi packed a saddlebag and set out from his little town in İnebolu for Istanbul around 260 years ago. Sultan Mahmut I was so taken with his helva that he had to meet the man who had created a "festival in his mouth." Since then, each generation has carried on the practice of crafting such vibrant delights that this shop may be regarded as a fiesta or a carnival for your tastebuds.
They describe themselves as a museum, and they are maybe one of the oldest candy stores. Unlike a museum, though, this location is not arrogant or dusty. Though the owner, Mr Cemal, is becoming older, his youthful enthusiasm is definitely contagious.
5. Koska
If you inquire about a 'Koska' shop while walking about Istanbul, you may be guided to one of their bright stores on Istiklal Street or in Karaköy. Koska is one of the world's largest producers of Turkish delights, and its products can be found not just in Turkish stores but also all over the world.
Their Turkish pleasure boxes are decorated with paintings of the Ottoman Empire or its capital, Istanbul. Koska is a global brand that pioneered halva, marzipan, and jams, as well as a variety of other items such as lokum, honey, molasses, hazelnut butter with cocoa, and so on. You may put your trust in this name.
6. Altan Şekerleme
This shop, which would look quite at home in Dickensian England, is filled with rows and rows of multicoloured treats. Some Turkish sweets are even arranged to look like the house where the witch dwelt in Hansel & Gretel. We wouldn't be surprised if a gingerbread man bolted from this fairy-tale store. Furthermore, this beautiful business is nestled on a narrow, cobblestone street. You may be wondering if you're dreaming or if this shop exists.
Their imagination knows no bounds: in addition to traditional flavours, you'll find orange-flavoured, fig-flavoured, and even cinnamon raisin-flavoured Turkish delights. This establishment isn't a fan of artificial colours or tastes, and it's made with things your grandmother would know.
7. Cemilzade 1883
With their neon green signs, this shop is hard to miss, and their packets are lined up in such a way that even the most hardened person will say "ohhh" in a high-pitched voice. Candy is kept in a little plastic see-through box with golden cone crowns. Unless you choose the attractive gift boxes with red or even blue ribbons, the square gift boxes are embellished with a sheer, almost-translucent gold-coloured bow. If they don't have the Turkish evil eye stones, some of the candy is placed on plates with a cherubic angel watching over them.
To complement the outstanding Turkish pleasures, see-through sweets, rock candies, unique jams like almond-fig, a range of chocolates, including ones containing Turkish delights, and even a soft 'ezme' are available. This is the case. This is the Audrey Hepburn of souvenirs.
8. Meşhur Safranbolu Lokumcusu
This shop's exquisite appearance may make you feel like a sultan. The joys within, on the other hand, will forever spoil any other form of Turkish delight for you. This shop sells a dizzying selection of candies that would make an ideal present for a buddy who couldn't make it to Istanbul.
With a hint of Ottoman exoticism, this property is already in the hands of the second generation. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation since the 1990s, illustrating that not everything that came out of that decade was cringeworthy. This is a local favourite that is a little off the usual route for tourists. They do, however, advertise that they offer same-day delivery if you purchase before a specific time.
9. Malatya Pazarı
If you go to the Spice Market, you must visit this stall. With beautiful lamps dangling from the ceiling, this sweets and spice store is one of the few true, non-touristy shops in the Spice Market.
Though this company is well-known for their kuru yemiş ("dry foods" aka nuts/trail mix, their Turkish treats are not to be missed. They have rows and rows of colourful 'walnut sausages' (cevizli sucuk), candied chestnuts, helvas, and a fantastic selection of local sweets. However, let's say you're not interested in sampling the local fare. In such case, there are also French croquants, honey, molasses, nutty atoms, spreadable nut/seed butter, chocolate spreads, saffron, spices, and olive oils available.
Not only are the mouthwatering pişmaniyes on display, but everything about this business has an idealistic aspect to it. Furthermore, a brand dating back to the 1800s is trusted and adored by the locals. If you don't stop by, it will be regretful.
10. Divan Pastanesi
This patisserie, which was founded over sixty years ago, has seen numerous changes in the Republic of Turkey. Divan has even kept up with the times by combining expert hands with cutting-edge machinery in their 15,000 square meter production plant. Despite their Willy-Wonka-esque manufacturing, they haven't compromised on quality, taste, or hygiene. Divan has become a trusted name in the dessert sector, producing tons of desserts, five of which are Turkish pleasure, to the point that they have multiple branches in Istanbul and have even begun exporting to Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.
Though each generation adds their creations, Divan's experience and artistry is a lesson for all generations to learn from. Their unique recipe, paired with great customer service, defines status, and each bite is a little piece of delight.
Final words
Istanbul is a metropolis of numerous cultures and cuisines. With so much variety, it's no wonder that you can get some extremely exquisite Turkish delight in the top shops throughout the city. We've compiled a list of our favourite Turkish delight stores for you so that the next time you're craving something sweet or want to learn more about the culture behind this classic treat, you'll have all the information at your fingertips!
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