Turkish Flavours

Turkish Flavours has been running food tours since 2006 and describes itself as one of the pioneers of the food-tour idea in Turkey. The business is run by an Istanbul native, and its tours are built on the belief that food is one of the best ways into Turkish culture and the Turkish approach to living well. Tour logistics are handled by Argeus Travel & Events, a member of TÜRSAB, the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies.

The Istanbul line-up is broad. The Istanbul Flavours Tour and Dinner and the Vegetarian Market Tour with Dinner combine market visits with an evening meal, while the Spice Market and Kadıköy Food Market Tour with Lunch links the Spice Bazaar on the European side with the markets of Kadıköy on the Asian side. Bridges of Flavor explores Eminönü and Karaköy on either side of the Galata Bridge, and the Vegetarian Gourmet Tour is designed for those who do not eat meat.

For those who want to cook as well as eat, there is an Istanbul Cooking Class, combining a market visit with cooking in a home setting, and an Istanbul Meze Cooking Class focused on the small dishes that open a Turkish meal. The company also arranges lunch or dinner in a Turkish home, a private experience that gives a direct view of everyday family life, as well as cooking classes in Cappadocia and culinary trips elsewhere in Turkey.

Rather than a quick tasting trail, expect an unhurried introduction to Istanbul's markets, ingredients and eating habits, with time to talk to your host and ask questions. Check the company's website for the current tour line-up, prices and availability, and use its booking request or contact form to reserve, mentioning any dietary requirements so the hosts can plan around them. Book in advance for spring and autumn.

Turkish Flavours suits food lovers, vegetarians, couples and small groups who want a more personal experience than a large group tour. The vegetarian options are a particular strength in a cuisine often associated with kebabs. Meeting points and timings are confirmed when you book, and many tours combine walking with ferry or tram journeys, so wear comfortable shoes and allow time to get to the start.