Cihangir Tarihi Simit Fırını — Restaurant in Beyoğlu

In the narrow alleys of the historic Beyoğlu district in Istanbul, I stumbled upon a hidden gem—a small, timeworn bakery that seemed to encapsulate the essence of old Istanbul. The shop, with its weathered facade and modest sign, exuded an irresistible charm, promising an authentic taste of the city.As I stepped through the creaky wooden door, a wave of warmth and an intoxicating aroma enveloped me. The scent of freshly baked simit, sesame-crusted bread rings, wafted through the air, mingling with the subtle hints of sweet pastries and rich spices. It was as if I had been transported back in time to the bustling kitchens of traditional Turkish households.The interior of the bakery was quaint and cozy, with shelves lined with an array of golden-brown breads, delicate pastries, and colorful sweets. Each item was a work of art, showcasing the skill and dedication of the bakers. The centerpiece was an old-fashioned oven, its bricks blackened from years of use, tirelessly churning out delicious, piping-hot loaves.Behind the counter stood an elderly couple, their faces etched with the lines of many years and countless stories. They greeted me with warm smiles and sparkling eyes, their joy in their craft evident in every gesture. The old man, with his white hair and neatly trimmed mustache, offered me a sample of their freshly baked simit, while his wife, her headscarf meticulously tied, guided me through their assortment of traditional breads and pastries.Each bite was a revelation. The simit was crisp on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, with a nutty flavor from the sesame seeds. The baklava, dripping with honey and studded with pistachios, melted in my mouth, while the gözleme, a savory stuffed flatbread, was a perfect blend of spices and textures. Every morsel was a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Turkey.As I savored these delights, I couldn't help but feel a deep connection to the city's past. The bakery was more than just a place to buy bread; it was a living museum of Istanbul's gastronomic traditions. The elderly couple's stories and their dedication to preserving these recipes added a layer of authenticity that made the experience truly special.Even now, as I flip through the photos from my Istanbul trip, the taste of those heavenly breads lingers on my palate, bringing a smile to my face. The memory of that quaint little bakery, tucked away in the heart of Beyoğlu, remains one of the highlights of my journey. On my future visits to Istanbul, a trip to this bakery will undoubtedly be at the top of my list, a pilgrimage to relive the flavors and warmth of that...

I discovered this place too many years after I moved to the area. I don't know how I missed it. There's a cake that sits in the front window, it's yellow cake with raisins and icing on top, very much like a pastry I grew up eating with a different name, but known on this side of the world as a Chelsea bun. I actually have no idea what they call it here, but you'll see it! ❤ Ive bought the entire pan twice before now that I'm no longer local. I've tried their pizza and sandwiches too and it's really delicious. There's nothing that overwhelms you, it's just all these nice and fresh flavors that hit just right. And it is quality food that still keeps a price that feels inclusive to all the surrounding neighborhood, with modest increases to keep up with the ever changing economy. It's a place that just makes you feel it's all made and served with love. Despite constant crowds during most of the day, even when you sit at the tiny spaces available, there is a warmth and friendliness around the entire experience, not stressful. Nobody will rush you to find exactly what you want. Sometimes with English and sometimes without, they are able to communicate well with...

This place tries to scam tourists. I got three bread things, and this obnoxious woman tried to charge 150 lira. I have bought simits from other bakeries for 15 lira all week, so I just knew this could not be true. She kept lying until some nice older man came and helped me. It was actually 85 lira when he added them up. This place even has a price list on the wall, and they thought tourists cannot add numbers in their head??? I had the best intention going into this place, thinking I would like to come every day...and came out feeling rather disgusted. The sad thing is, I would not have been totally happy to tip her 80 liras or whatever, if she just gave me decent service. Shame on her, you will not succeed like this in the long run. I feel sorry for the baker, who is probably working so hard to make bread. Whoever this woman is, she is ruining...