Where to Eat the Best Sultanahmet Köfte and Lamb Shish Kebab in Istanbul? Sultanahmet Köftecisi
The famous meatball place in Sultanahmet Fatih district of Istanbul
When you think of Istanbul’s culinary icons, Sultanahmet Köftecisi immediately comes to mind. This historic restaurant, located right in the heart of Sultanahmet, has been serving its signature meatballs and lamb skewers for decades, becoming a true gastronomic landmark of the city.
A Timeless Classic: Sultanahmet Köfte
The köfte here are unlike any others. Prepared in the traditional İnegöl style, they may feel firm and springy at first bite, but that’s precisely their charm. Each one proudly declares: “I am the Sultanahmet köfte.” It’s as if they’ve become a signature dish, inseparable from the identity of the restaurant itself.
The presentation is simple yet deeply satisfying: köfte served with tangy pickled peppers, a touch of their special hot sauce, and a side of piyaz (bean salad). The piyaz, with its vinegar dressing and red onions, adds both freshness and appetite to the experience.
The Hidden Star: Lamb Shish Kebab
Though köfte is the restaurant’s crown jewel, don’t overlook the lamb shish. Juicy, tender, and perfectly grilled, it arrives on your plate still glistening with its own flavorful juices. Unlike many skewers elsewhere, there’s no trace of sinew or dryness here—just pure, succulent lamb.
The richness of the meat is such that you’ll find yourself unable to resist dipping a piece of bread into the juices left on the plate. It’s that good.
The Atmosphere
Dining here is a step back in time. The restaurant is housed in an old historic building with marble tables and walls decorated with framed vintage photographs and writings. Every detail carries the weight of tradition, reminding you that you’re not just eating a meal—you’re tasting a piece of Istanbul’s culinary heritage.
Final Thoughts
Sultanahmet Köftecisi isn’t just another stop on Istanbul’s food map. It’s a living classic, a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the city’s authentic flavors in their most genuine form. Whether you go for the köfte or the lamb shish, one thing is certain: you’ll be tasting history.
Sultanahmet Köftecisi
Adres: Hırka-i Şerif, Prof. Naci Şensoy Cd. 22/A, 34091 Fatih/İstanbul
Tel: +90212 5250269
