Izmir’s 10 Street Flavors

Discover 10 iconic street foods of Izmir that reflect the city’s rich culinary culture. From savory bites to sweet treats, these local flavors offer a unique taste of Izmir’s history and character.

Boyoz

Boyoz, a beloved pastry with a 500-year history, is a staple of Izmir. Made from a simple dough of wheat flour, water, and salt, it is often served plain or with various fillings such as leek, eggplant, cheese, and tahini. It’s a must-try at the historic bakeries of Alsancak.

Gevrek

Often mistaken for a simit, Izmir’s gevrek has a distinct crunch. Unlike simit, gevrek is dipped in hot molasses before being baked with sesame, giving it a crispier texture. It was officially trademarked in 2021.

Kumru

Izmir’s kumru is a sandwich made with a special local bread, filled with İzmir Tulum cheese, tomatoes, and peppers. It can be served cold or hot, grilled with sausage and cheese. It's perfect for any time of the day, from breakfast to late-night snacks.

Kokoreç

Izmir’s kokoreç stands out with its large, thick slices of lamb intestines, grilled over charcoal and served with cumin. Unlike other versions, it’s not chopped finely and served in bread, making it a unique take on this popular street food.

Midye

Izmir’s mussels are smaller and served cold, unlike the larger varieties found in other coastal cities. They are traditionally seasoned with only black pepper, offering a simple yet satisfying flavor. The mussels are served without rice, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Söğüş

Söğüş is a street snack made from cold, boiled offal such as tongue, cheek, and brain, served in flatbread with spices like cumin, red pepper, and herbs. It’s popular throughout Izmir, especially in districts like Kemeraltı and Bostanlı.

Lokma

Lokma is a deep-fried dough ball soaked in syrup, a popular treat in Izmir. Topped with powdered sugar or served at charity stalls, it’s a sweet symbol of the city’s generosity and a cherished part of local life.

Torpil

Torpil is a cone-shaped pastry filled with cream and dusted with powdered sugar. It’s similar to mille-feuille and is commonly found in Izmir's bakeries. Locals also call it "kulah pasta" for its cone-like shape.

Şambali

A classic sweet found in Izmir’s street markets, şambali is a semolina-based dessert that’s less syrupy than other similar sweets like revani. It can be topped with nuts such as pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts and is often sold wrapped in paper.

Sübye Şerbeti

Sübye şerbeti is a traditional drink made from dried melon seeds, offering a refreshing and slightly sweet flavor. Served chilled in the summer, it’s a unique and healthful beverage with a high content of vitamin A and potassium.

Izmir’s street foods are a true reflection of the city’s rich culinary heritage, offering both a delicious and authentic experience for those looking to explore its vibrant culture.