Alara Kap
Istanbul, Turkey
Kruvasan
When it comes to pastry, everyone knows that croissants require a certain delicate, painstaking sort of mastery. What you may not know is that the flakiest, tastiest croissants aren't necessarily to be found in France. At Kruvasan, a street cafe where you'll unquestionably have to wait in a queue before sitting down, you'll taste the best croissant you've ever had, never mind the fact that you're nowhere near Paris. It's a bold statement, but one that the locals stand by, and the streetside dining means you'll be entertained by people-watching throughout your visit. If you don't order one (or many) croissants, you're crazy – but don't miss the eggs, tarts, eclairs, bread loaves, or cinnamon rolls, either.
Arada Meyhane
Although having rakı balık (a sort of ritualistic fish-and-spirits dining experience) by the sea is supposed to be mandatory for any visitor to Turkey, we'd like to offer up a secret spot that, while not waterside, will have you hooked at first bite. This small restaurant makes patrons feel welcome and catered to from course to course, but never fussed over – the ambiance is cozy and homelike, and boisterous laughter is always in the air. Don't hold back on your modern mezze feast at Arada (meyhane, FYI, means "tavern"); instead, keep your raki glass topped off and your courses coming – and definitely don't skip the beetroot hummus.
Bi Nevi Deli
Plant-based dining? Hours of peace and quiet for reading or writing? Some of the best people-watching in town? It's all on offer at this delicious local eatery, with food to feed the body and soul that's so tasty you'll scarcely notice it's meatless. If you visit when the weather is nice, don't overlook Bi Nevi Deli's quiet backyard garden that's equal parts serenity and eye candy, perfect for tucking into a light snack, sweet treat, or savory meal.
Gone are the days when Istanbul was only visited by the most seasoned of intrepid travelers. This multicultural wonder may not be a hidden gem any longer, but it's a city that's dedicated to the art of invention and renewal (both good and bad) – no two travelers, visiting simultaneously or otherwise, can have the same experience here. It's also a city that welcomes solo travelers with open arms: while Istanbul's very DNA varies wildly from neighborhood to neighborhood, you'll meet exceedingly friendly locals wherever you go. You'll also find unbelievably tasty food, from delicate pastry to masterfully prepared fresh catches.
I’m a producer, content creator, event planner and project lead, but that is more of what I do than who I am… I am someone committed to happiness, dancing, music, yoga, friends & family… and a hopeless romantic, one of the last of my breed.