This extended guide will help tourists discover the very best lokum in Istanbul, learn about its cultural significance, and enjoy the sweetest parts of their Istanbul journey.
Table Of Content
- Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir – The Inventor of Turkish Delight
- Hafız Mustafa 1864 – Award-Winning Modern Classics
- Koska – A Household Brand for Every Traveler
- Şekerci Cafer Erol – A Candy Wonderland in Kadıköy
- Altan Şekerleme – A Hidden Gem in Eminönü
- Other Notable Shops
- Must-Try Flavors
- Tourist Tips
- Lokum as a Cultural Experience
- Final Word
- Related posts
Turkish delight, or lokum, is one of the most iconic sweets of Turkey, with Istanbul being the heart of its tradition. Whether you’re seeking an authentic taste of Ottoman history, exploring vibrant bazaars, or looking for beautifully packaged gifts to take home, Istanbul offers countless lokum shops, each with its own unique heritage.
Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir – The Inventor of Turkish Delight
Founded in 1777, Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir is the oldest lokum shop in Turkey and is often credited with perfecting the recipe we know today. The original shop in Eminönü, near the Spice Bazaar, is a time capsule of Ottoman charm, complete with old-world interiors and a sense of living history. It’s a must-visit for anyone curious about the roots of lokum.
Must-try varieties include:
- Rosewater – the timeless classic that embodies tradition
- Double pistachio – bursting with premium nuts, rich and chewy
- Kaymaklı (clotted cream) lokum – smooth and indulgent, best enjoyed fresh
Their staff are friendly and knowledgeable, often ready to share the brand’s story. Tourists will appreciate the elegant gift boxes and vacuum-sealed packaging, ensuring the delights stay fresh during flights. Beyond Eminönü, you’ll also find a convenient branch on Istiklal Street in Taksim, making it easy to pick up authentic lokum while exploring Istanbul’s most famous boulevard.
Hafız Mustafa 1864 – Award-Winning Modern Classics
Hafız Mustafa has become a global name in Turkish desserts, admired for blending tradition with creativity. Their flagship store in Sirkeci (close to Sultanahmet) is always buzzing with both locals and tourists, while their Istiklal Street branch is equally popular.
Highlights include:
- Pomegranate with pistachio – a sweet-tart favorite among travelers
- Saffron and lavender – modern gourmet twists with delicate aromas
- Assorted gift tins – elegantly packaged and perfect for souvenirs
What makes Hafız Mustafa special is not just the lokum, but the whole experience. Tourists can sit in their café with Turkish tea or coffee, sample delights before buying, and soak up the nostalgic Ottoman décor. Staff are multilingual and well-prepared to serve international visitors. They also offer vacuum-sealing services for longer shelf life. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality and presentation make it worth every lira.
Koska – A Household Brand for Every Traveler
Koska is one of Turkey’s most recognizable confectionery brands, making it a safe and affordable option for tourists. With shops on Istiklal Street, Karaköy, and many other neighborhoods, Koska is easily accessible.
Their lokum selection includes:
- Classic lemon, mint, and rose varieties
- Nut-filled delights like pistachio, hazelnut, and walnut
- Chocolate-covered lokum for those who love a modern twist
Koska is also renowned for halva, jams, and nut pastes, making it a one-stop shop for Turkish sweets. Their packaging often features colorful Ottoman-inspired designs, perfect for gifting. For travelers on a budget, Koska provides reliable quality at fair prices while still capturing the essence of Turkish tradition.
Şekerci Cafer Erol – A Candy Wonderland in Kadıköy
Founded in 1807, Şekerci Cafer Erol is a whimsical candy shop located in Kadıköy on the Asian side. Entering the store feels like stepping into a festive wonderland, with displays of lokum, hard candies, marzipan, and pastries that appeal to all ages.
Tourist favorites include:
- Coffee-flavored lokum – aromatic and unique
- Ginger and citrus-infused lokum – refreshing with a spicy kick
- Fruit preserves and nut-stuffed sweets
This shop is not just about buying lokum; it’s an experience. Visitors can enjoy Turkish coffee upstairs while tasting samples. The friendly staff prepare beautifully decorated boxes, often tied with ribbons or adorned with festive motifs. Taking the ferry to Kadıköy also gives tourists the chance to enjoy breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
Altan Şekerleme – A Hidden Gem in Eminönü
For those who prefer authenticity over glamour, Altan Şekerleme is a hidden treasure near the Spice Bazaar. This small, family-run shop has been making lokum for generations using natural, preservative-free ingredients.
Standout flavors include:
- Fig lokum – fruity and rich
- Orange-flavored delights – zesty and refreshing
- Cinnamon-raisin varieties – a rare and nostalgic taste
The prices here are fair, and the atmosphere feels like a preserved slice of old Istanbul. While it lacks the grandeur of larger brands, Altan Şekerleme is ideal for travelers looking for a genuine, less commercialized lokum experience.
Other Notable Shops
- Cemilzade 1883: Famous for its luxurious packaging and stylish assortments, perfect for elegant gifts.
- Hicipoğlu Şekerleme: Over 250 years old, this shop combines museum-like displays with authentic lokum recipes.
- Divan Patisserie: A contemporary patisserie chain offering gourmet lokum in chic, upscale packaging.
- Malatya Pazarı (Spice Bazaar): A trustworthy bazaar stall with quality lokum, dried fruits, and nuts, avoiding tourist-trap prices.
Must-Try Flavors
When exploring Istanbul’s lokum scene, don’t miss these:
- Rose (gül): The quintessential flavor, floral and light
- Double pistachio: Packed with nuts, a favorite among locals
- Pomegranate with pistachio: Sweet, tangy, and colorful
- Kaymaklı (clotted cream): Creamy and decadent
- Mastic, saffron, citrus, and lavender: Traditional and adventurous varieties
- Chocolate-covered or rose-petal coated lokum: Modern versions that are visually stunning and delicious
Tourist Tips
- Where to Buy: Stick to well-known shops like Hacı Bekir, Hafız Mustafa, Cafer Erol, or Koska to ensure authenticity.
- Packaging: Always ask for vacuum-sealed boxes to keep lokum fresh for months.
- Sampling: Don’t hesitate to try samples before buying – it’s customary and encouraged.
- Price Range: Expect to pay ₺400–₺800 per kilo at quality shops, with higher prices for nut-heavy varieties.
- Transport: Lokum is safe to carry on flights, and sealed packaging prevents spills.
- Cultural Note: Lokum has been a symbol of Turkish hospitality for centuries, traditionally served with coffee or shared during festivals and family gatherings.
Lokum as a Cultural Experience
Beyond its taste, lokum is a window into Turkish culture and history. It has been enjoyed by sultans in Ottoman palaces, gifted during holidays, and cherished as a gesture of hospitality. Visiting Istanbul’s confectionery shops is more than shopping – it’s a way of connecting with the city’s past and present.
Tourists can enhance their visit by asking shopkeepers about the origins of certain flavors, learning how lokum is made, or simply enjoying the visual spectacle of trays piled high with colorful delights. Each shop carries its own story, passed down through generations, and tasting their lokum is like tasting history itself.
Final Word
Buying lokum in Istanbul is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth – it’s about immersing yourself in a cultural tradition that has endured for centuries. From the pioneering recipes of Hacı Bekir to the festive displays of Cafer Erol, every shop offers something unique. Take the time to taste different flavors, enjoy conversations with shopkeepers, and bring home beautifully packaged boxes that capture the spirit of Istanbul. This way, the magic of your trip lasts long after you’ve left the city, one chewy bite at a time.
