Mama’s Kitchen: Dine with Locals, Live Like Family

Join us for a cozy and authentic evening inside a local home in Istanbul. At Mama’s Kitchen, you won’t just enjoy a meal—you’ll experience real Turkish family life. From 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, you’ll gather around the table with a welcoming local “mama,” tasting a variety of traditional homemade dishes prepared with love. From comforting tarhana soup to handmade içli köfte, crispy hamsi tava, and freshly grilled chicken, every plate tells a story. Along the way, you’ll learn about daily life, food culture, and family traditions in Turkey—just like visiting a friend’s home. Come hungry, leave with a full heart. Note: Our kitchen is at 5th floor of an apartment. There is stairway and no lift.

Menu for Mama’s Kitchen Soup • Tarhana Soup – Traditional fermented soup prepared with rich chicken stock Main Courses • Dry Beans with Lamb Meat (Kuru Fasulye) • Rice Pilaf with Lamb, Almonds, Herbs (vegetarian option available without meat) • İçli Köfte – Stuffed bulgur shells with seasoned lamb filling) • Hamsi Tava – Pan-fried Black Sea anchovies Side Dishes & Appetizers • Börek – Savory pastry filled with cheese • Çiğ Köfte – Traditional spicy bulgur mix Meze Selection • Haydari (yogurt with herbs & garlic) • Celery Salad • Beetroot Salad • Eggplant Salad Drinks • Ayran (traditional yogurt drink) • Turkish tea & coffee (complimentary) Note: The menu can be changed according to seasonal (vegetary) availability and your dietary.