Best Breakfasts in Üsküdar, Istanbul: A Complete Guide to Morning Delights by the Bosphorus
Üsküdar is one of Istanbul’s most charming districts—a serene escape on the Asian side where tradition meets breathtaking views of the Bosphorus. With its historic tea gardens, hilltop groves, and trendy new cafes, the area has become a paradise for breakfast lovers. Whether you prefer a simple simit and tea by the water or an indulgent serpme kahvaltı with a panoramic city view, Üsküdar offers countless unforgettable options.
Table Of Content
🥐 Traditional Turkish Breakfasts
- 🥯 Baltaş Simit Fırını – A beloved local bakery famous for its wood-fired taş fırın simit. Beyond being a quick breakfast stop, this shop embodies Istanbul’s traditional bakery culture. The smell of sesame and freshly baked dough fills the street from dawn, drawing both locals and early risers. Each simit has a crisp crust and chewy inside, perfect when paired with kaymak (clotted cream) and a glass of strong Turkish tea. The bakery’s proximity to the Bosphorus makes it ideal for takeaway—many regulars grab their simit and head to the seaside benches nearby to enjoy breakfast with the sound of seagulls. It’s an authentic, wallet-friendly experience that captures the city’s simple pleasures. (Approx. 20–50 TL per person.)
- 🍯 Van Kahvaltı Salonu – Doğancılar’s go-to spot for a rich Van-style breakfast that transforms the first meal of the day into a feast. Each morning, tables are filled with small plates of regional specialties: tangy otlu peynir (herbed cheese), golden honeycomb, fresh butter, thick cream, and the signature murtuğa, a buttery egg and flour dish unique to Van. The warm bread arrives straight from the oven, still steaming, perfect for dipping into honey or cheese. The experience feels homely yet abundant, embodying Eastern Turkey’s generous food culture. It’s also one of the few places where you can linger for hours, sipping tea refills while staff cheerfully replenish plates. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming—ideal for groups, families, or anyone craving an authentic Anatolian breakfast. (Approx. 100–200 TL per person.)
- 🌳 Tarihi Çınaraltı Aile Çay Bahçesi (Çengelköy) – A historic tea garden beneath a centuries-old plane tree where you can bring your own breakfast or buy simit and pastries from nearby shops. Locals often stop by early, carrying baskets of cheeses, olives, and börek, then spend lazy hours under the shade sipping tea and chatting. The view opens directly onto the Bosphorus, offering one of the most serene morning vistas in Istanbul. The setting feels timeless, with families, students, and fishermen sharing tables in the open air. The garden’s 24-hour service means you can watch the sunrise or enjoy a midnight snack in the same spot. Even with its simplicity, this place captures the essence of Istanbul life—community, tea, and a view of the sea. (Under 200 TL per person.)*
🌅 Breakfasts with a Bosphorus View
- 🌊 Katibim Café & Restaurant – A Üsküdar classic serving a full serpme kahvaltı with homemade jams, spicy walnut paste, eggs, and fresh bread. The restaurant has been an Istanbul institution for decades, attracting both locals and tourists who come for its signature combination of rich flavors and breathtaking scenery. Beyond the main spread, guests can order specialties like sucuklu yumurta, crispy börek, or fresh-squeezed orange juice to complement the meal. The upper terrace offers one of the best panoramic views of the Maiden’s Tower, creating a postcard-perfect setting, especially at sunrise or sunset. The lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for families, friends, or couples seeking a traditional yet vibrant morning experience. (Approx. 700 TL per person.)
- 🏞️ İBB Fethipaşa Sosyal Tesisleri – A municipal venue in Fethipaşa Grove combining affordability with stunning views. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy Istanbul’s natural beauty without breaking the bank. The terrace stretches across the hillside, providing sweeping vistas from Sarayburnu to Ortaköy. Breakfast is either buffet-style or served as a serpme kahvaltı, with plates overflowing with olives, cheeses, eggs, pastries, and freshly baked bread. Guests praise the freshness and quality, noting that the open-air environment and family-friendly setup make it a favorite weekend retreat. After breakfast, many visitors take a stroll through the surrounding grove to enjoy the peaceful greenery. (Approx. 585 TL per person.)
- 🏡 Küçük Çamlıca Köşkü – A tranquil Ottoman-style mansion surrounded by greenery and history. The interior’s ornate design, featuring high ceilings and elegant woodwork, reflects the grandeur of late Ottoman architecture. The garden terrace offers a calm setting, making it a favorite for those seeking a break from the city’s noise. The menu includes classic dishes like sucuklu yumurta, bal-kaymak, and freshly baked simit, all served with unlimited tea. Visitors often describe the experience as a blend of nostalgia and nature—where time seems to slow down. Couples, retirees, and early risers enjoy this venue for its serenity, photogenic surroundings, and affordable prices. (Approx. 100 TL per person.)
- 🌉 Kuleli Yakamoz Restaurant – A luxurious Kandilli venue featuring a lavish open buffet brunch directly over the Bosphorus. The dining area, encased in glass, allows guests to feel almost as if they are floating above the water. The buffet includes omelets, cheeses, pastries, and hot dishes alongside local delicacies like pişi, menemen, and freshly squeezed juices. On weekends, a live instrumentalist adds to the ambience with soft Turkish melodies. Service is polished and attentive, and the setting is perfect for special occasions—from family gatherings to romantic breakfasts. While it’s one of the more expensive options, guests consistently note that the quality, view, and atmosphere justify the cost, making it a true luxury experience. (Approx. 1,700 TL per person.)*
🥑 Modern & Trendy Brunch Spots
- 🧇 Pita Kuzguncuk – In the artsy neighborhood of Kuzguncuk, Pita blends contemporary presentation with authentic flavor. The menu includes creative breakfast plates named after local streets, homemade bread, and gluten-free options. The cozy decor and leafy outdoor seating make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Beyond the classics, Pita’s kitchen experiments with modern touches—like avocado toast with Turkish cheese, homemade granola with local honey, and seasonal fruit platters that look as good as they taste. Coffee lovers will find rich espresso options and cold brews to complement their breakfast. The warm service and the aroma of freshly baked bread give it a neighborhood charm that invites long, slow mornings. (Approx. 250 TL per person.)
- 📚 Nevmekan Sahil – Part library, part café, this modern municipal venue sits right on the waterfront, creating a peaceful atmosphere that encourages reading, conversation, or remote work. With its elegant architecture, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, Nevmekan Sahil feels like a cultural oasis as much as a breakfast spot. The serpme kahvaltı for two (around 450 TL total) offers a generous spread of cheese varieties, fresh vegetables, jams, pastries, and eggs, all beautifully presented. The café also serves excellent Turkish coffee and herbal teas that pair well with breakfast. Visitors often linger here for hours, taking advantage of the tranquil Bosphorus view and free Wi-Fi, making it a perfect place for both quiet reflection and productivity. Families and students alike love its relaxed yet sophisticated vibe.
- 🥙 Arada Blue City – For a Middle Eastern twist, Arada Blue City offers a Lebanese-Turkish fusion breakfast that turns brunch into a feast. Expect vibrant plates of hummus, labneh, falafel, and za’atar breads served alongside traditional Turkish delicacies like simit, menemen, and clotted cream with honey. The experience is elevated by freshly squeezed juices, mint lemonade, and artisan teas. Every dish is artfully arranged, creating a colorful table perfect for photos. The ambiance reflects a Mediterranean aesthetic—warm, bright, and welcoming—with views that open directly onto the Bosphorus. Staff are attentive, refilling plates and drinks without hesitation, as this is an unlimited serpme kahvaltı experience. Priced at around 1,000 TL per person, it’s a destination for those who appreciate both gastronomy and aesthetics. Guests often describe it as a brunch destination where Istanbul meets Beirut in flavor and spirit—a truly Instagrammable and memorable experience.
☕ Hidden Gems
- 🍳 Keyif İstanbul Café – Tucked behind the Üsküdar Fish Market, this rooftop café offers a relaxed local atmosphere with a view of the Maiden’s Tower. From the moment you climb the stairs, you’re greeted by the aroma of fresh Turkish tea and the gentle hum of conversation from locals starting their morning routine. The rooftop setting provides a charming panorama of the Bosphorus and Istanbul’s European side, making it an ideal place to linger. Their Turkish breakfast plate is simple yet flavorful, featuring creamy cheeses, olives, honey, jam, fresh tomatoes, and soft-boiled eggs. You can add a side of menemen or simit for a fuller experience. The café’s friendly service and homey vibe make it a favorite among students, freelancers, and families looking for a calm start to the day. The affordable prices (100–150 TL per person) make it a great casual option, and the relaxed pace encourages you to stay for a second round of tea while watching ferries glide across the Bosphorus.
- 🧆 Teras Café – Located above the Fish Market, Teras Café serves freshly made gözleme and Ayvalık toast, all paired with traditional tea and a laid-back vibe. It’s the kind of place where regulars know the staff by name, and the smell of toasting bread fills the air. Their gözleme comes in a variety of fillings—cheese, spinach, potato, or sucuk—and is prepared by hand right on the terrace. Pair it with a glass of çay or try their Turkish coffee, which is brewed slowly in sand for a rich, authentic flavor. The terrace offers glimpses of the sea between the rooftops, creating a cozy, hidden-corner feel away from the main streets. Music often plays softly in the background, and on weekends, you might even catch a live saz performance later in the day. It’s popular among locals and perfect for a no-frills morning meal, combining authenticity with comfort. Prices start around 200 TL for two, making it one of the best-value hidden gems in Üsküdar.
🌞 Final Thoughts
From waterfront tea gardens and historic mansions to creative neighborhood cafes, Üsküdar’s breakfast culture captures the essence of Istanbul’s diversity. Whether you’re craving a traditional feast, a modern brunch, or a peaceful rooftop moment, you’ll find a spot that matches your morning mood. For the best experience, visit early on weekends, bring friends, and savor the city’s timeless ritual—breakfast by the Bosphorus.
