Iftar 2024 in Istanbul

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. In a nutshell, Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, as a sign of devotion and self-control. But then, they need to break the fasting, and Iftar is what helps them do that.. Iftar is a very significant cultural and social event in Turkey, frequently uniting families and communities in celebration and introspection. This after-sunset, collective family meal is a perfect way to experience Turkish culture through its traditional food. So, let's dive into the details!

What is Iftar in Turkey?

The first component of Iftar is an appetizer that is usually presented with nuts, dried fruits, cheese, olives, and such Turkish specialties as spicy sausages named "sucuk" or cured beef called "pastirma". Next comes soup, accompanied by Ramadan seed bread and pastries called "börek." For the main course, you will have traditional Turkish dishes made of lamb, like kuzu tandır and Hünkar beğendi, or Turkish dumplings called "mantı."

At last, the long-awaited dessert—milk-based Güllaç, made of starchy dough with pomegranate seeds, is the most typical for the occasion. The ample meal is washed down with traditional, non-alcoholic Turkish drinks like fruit "şerbet" or salty yoghurt-like "ayran."

It would be ideal if you were invited for Iftar to a genuine Muslim household to have the true full experience; however, local restaurants offer fairly good Iftar menus and a corresponding festive atmosphere.

There are lots of places across the city to experience Iftar. If you don't want to go to a restaurant, head to Beyazıt Square, Gülhane Park, Çemberlitaş, Sultanahmet Square, and places like Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia where the locals celebrate and organise picnics to enjoy the food with friends and family.