Street food day: Fish sandwiches

One of the must dos during your Istanbul trip is trying street food which has a tantalizing smell. To get a tasty street food experience in this city, then head to the Eminönü Pier where small boats sell freshly-cooked fish sandwiches or as you may soon learn, "balık ekmek," every day.

Fish boats located next to the Galata Bridge, across from the well-known Spice Bazaar, are so tempting although you will probably get cold if you spend longer hours in winter. Fish sandwiches are the only option on the menu, where half of the bread is stuffed with fish, green salad and onion with lemon juice. Almost all of them have low stools and tiny tables. They may all appear occupied at first sight, finding a seat is not that hard if you go on weekdays. Some days the crowds form long lines as hungry Istanbulites wait to find a seat to have a fish sandwich for lunch. You can avoid the crowds and have a somewhat more comfortable eating experience by choosing one of the balık-ekmek restaurants under the Galata Bridge.

For many years, most of Istanbul's fishermen have been catching fish over the Golden Horn to sell. While walking around Eminönü, you hear fishermen shouting: "Fish in bread! Fish in bread!" It is not a cozy place to sit for long hours; it is either for takeout or for grabbing a quick bite. The flavor of the fresh fish along with a traditional Turkish drink, shalgam, is the next foodie part of any Istanbul visit. Shalgam is a mix of water, the juice of salted, pickled black carrots and turnips. It has a sour and salty taste.