Istanbul has been a meeting point for many civilizations from all religions throughout the centuries. It is now, unfortunately, not easy to find a common place for these heritages except for few areas, one of which is lovely Ortakoy. With its historical pattern, Ortakoy has been hosting locals and tourists since it was modernised by Municipality of Besiktas between 1989 – 1992.
One thing definitely distinguishes Ortakoy from other famous places in Istanbul, which is its food culture. When someone talks about “waffle” or “baked potato” also known as “kumpir”, it’s kind of a message for visiting Ortakoy because these foods are referred with this shining and vibrant place. For anyone who passes the stores selling waffle or kumpir –it should be called like this, not with baked potato- for the first time or has been there before, it’s always exciting to be invited with a loudy chants made by funny salesmen. As they know you are there for what they’re selling, all of them tries to convince you with many interesting sayings, jokes or songs. You may be even called with your name if they hear your name when one of your friend says so! Then it’s impossible to escape. However, one should never forget that there’s always a way to negotiate in these ironic rivalry atmosphere. For instance, “kumpir” may be refilled many times after finishing its components
After getting your delicious waffle of kumpir, it’s time to find a proper place to sit. As Ortakoy is one of the most visited locations in Istanbul, it may not be a handy-dandy for a seat where gracious Bosphorus can easily be watched. Solution might be to jump on boats, which are located next to Ortakoy mosque, the one and only pink mosque all around the world, built by Ermenian architect, Nigogos Balyan, for a half an hour trip around Bosphorus.
Ortakoy will be always remembered with its waffle and kumpir but câfes, bars, shops selling hand made products are also really attractive for both foreigners and other people coming from other cities of Turkey or even from Istanbul. During 24 hours, life never stops at Ortakoy and anyone must taste these incredible foods, snuff the air at the side of Bosphorus and Ortakoy Mosque before she or he dies. Nobody can claim it’s not worth doing it.
Ortakoy will be always remembered with its waffle and kumpir but câfes, bars, shops selling hand made products are also really attractive for both foreigners and other people coming from other cities of Turkey or even from Istanbul. During 24 hours, life never stops at Ortakoy and anyone must taste these incredible foods, snuff the air at the side of Bosphorus and Ortakoy Mosque before she or he dies. Nobody can claim it’s not worth doing it.