What Is Kokoreç? Istanbul’s Most Controversial (and Delicious) Street Food
Where to Eat the Best Kokoreç in Istanbul: 5 Legendary Spots You Can Trust
I’ll be honest: kokoreç (pronounced kokoretch) isn’t for the faint of heart. But if you dare to try it, it might become the most unforgettable street food experience you’ll ever have in Istanbul. It’s one of my street foods, and I will never regret it.
So, what exactly is kokoreç?
It’s seasoned, skewered, charcoal-grilled lamb intestines — usually wrapped around sweetbreads (thymus gland) — chopped up and served in half or quarter-bread loaf. It’s bold, greasy, spicy… and yes, it’s delicious when done right.
Kokoreç Is Not Just Food — It’s Culture
You’ll usually find kokoreç near fish markets, ferry piers, and football stadiums. It’s the go-to site for night owls, blue-collar workers, and adventurous foodies. For many Turks, kokoreç carries a nostalgic taste of rebellion: it’s what you eat when you’re a teenager out late or trying to cure a hangover with fire and fat.
But… Is It Safe to Eat
This is the number one question every foreigner asks.
Short answer: Yes — if you go to the right places.
A good kokoreç shop cleans the intestines thoroughly (using vinegar, lemon, and hours of rinsing), skewers them tightly, and grills them slowly over wood charcoal. Avoid sketchy street carts with lukewarm grills and no line of hungry locals. Trust your nose — bad kokoreç smells like regret.
How to Order Kokoreç (Like a Local)
- Sandviç mi, porsiyon mu? (Sandwich or Portion?)
You can get it in a sandwich (ekmek arası) or as a portion on a plate. Go with the sandwich for the full street vibe. - Baharatlı mı, sade mi? (Spiciy or Plain?)
Spiced with thyme, chili flakes, and oregano — or plain. I say go spiced. - İçecek? (Drink?)
Order an ayran (salty yogurt drink) or şalgam (fermented turnip juice with chili) for full cultural impact.
Where to Eat the Best Kokoreç in Istanbul
Here are some time-tested, crowd-approved kokoreç spots you can trust:
1. Şampiyon Kokoreç – Beyoğlu
Probably the most famous chain. Always sizzling, always busy. The İstiklal location is iconic. Open super late. Superfast. Cooked on a plate.
Adress: Hüseyinağa, Sahne Sk. No:21, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Location: Google Maps
2. Kokoretto – Kadıköy
Their kokoreç is cleaner and more refined. It has great bread, perfect char, and good service. It is hipster-friendly without being fake. It is cooked on charcoal.
Adress: Osmanağa, Serasker Cd. 69/A, 34714 Kadıköy/İstanbul
Telephone: +90 216 3462102
Location: Google Maps
3. Kral Kokoreç – Eminönü
Old-school, fire-grilled kokoreç, chopped fresh in front of you. Late-night lifesaver. Watch out for seagulls.
Adress: Hobyar, Büyük Postane Cd. 26/1, 34112 Fatih/İstanbul
Telephone: +90 212 5136493
Location: Google Maps
4.Olimpiyat Kokoreç– Kadıköy Fish Bazaar
From the same Usta (Master) of Eminonu Kral Kokorec, It is probably the best Kokorec you’ll taste on the Anatolian Side. It’s in the beginning of Kadikoy’s famous fish bazaar.
Adress: Osmanağa Mah, Yağlıkçı, İsmail Hakkı Bey Sk. No: 6/A, 34000 Kadıköy/İstanbul
Telephone: +90 543 5401453
Location: Google Maps
5. Reks Kokoreç, Kadıköy
It’s less touristy and more local. It’s a solid pick if you’re on the Asian side. It’s open until very late. It is also in the famous “Barlar Sokagi—Bars Street,” where the nightlife occurs.
Adress: Osmanağa Mah, Yağlıkçı, İsmail Hakkı Bey Sk. No: 6/A, 34000 Kadıköy/İstanbul
Tel: +90 543 5401453
Location: Google Maps
6. Very Insider Tip: Fetih İşkembe
It’s not a typical Kokorec place, but it’s a soup place that serves Kokoreç only on a plate cooked in the oven. It’s my top kokorec place in Istanbul—a hidden gem. But you have to go early even though there are other Kokorec sellers. This place closes at 22:00.
Adress: Ayvansaray, Leblebiciler Sk. No:6, 34087 Fatih/İstanbul
Telephone: +90 212 5313740
Location: Google Maps
Try It Once, and You’ll Understand
Kokoreç is one of those dishes that tells you more about Turkey than any guidebook ever could. It’s not polished or pretty — but it’s real. Smoky, spicy, soulful. And when you find a good one? Man, it’s love at first bite.
