My Go to Places in Istanbul

This one holds a special place for me. Named after its chef and owner, Mahir specializes in Diyarbakır cuisine — the kind of cooking that feels like it belongs in someone's home rather than a restaurant. İçli köfte and dolma are always on my list, but they also serve one of the best lahmacuns and Ezme Güveç in Istanbul. Expect a line unless you arrive just before the lunch rush on a weekday.