Everyone in Turkey knows Çiğ Köfte as a popular street food, but few people get to experience it in the way it was originally meant to be made—at home, with friends, music, and laughter. If you’re looking for things to do in Istanbul that make you feel like more than just a visitor, we’d love to welcome you into our home for a true Çiğ Köfte-making experience.
Hailing from Urfa in southeastern Turkey, Çiğ Köfte has deep cultural roots. Traditionally, it was prepared at large gatherings, where some would knead the mixture while others played music, sang, and told stories. We want to bring that tradition to life, not just by teaching you the recipe, but by inviting you into the full experience—one filled with laughter, conversation, and the warmth of Turkish home hospitality.
We’ll start by introducing you to the unique spices and ingredients that give Çiğ Köfte its signature taste. Then, we’ll sit together and knead the mixture, just like it has been done for centuries. There are fun traditions and jokes that go along with testing its texture, and we’ll share them with you as we go. Of course, we won’t be throwing it on the ceiling (a classic stiffness test) for hygiene reasons, but you’ll learn the story behind it!
By the time we sit down to enjoy what we’ve made, you won’t just be tasting Çiğ Köfte—you’ll be feeling the joy and connection that this dish has brought to Turkish homes for generations. If you’re wondering what are the most unique experiences in Istanbul, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Come knead, eat, and laugh with us. Come as a guest, leave as a friend! 🧡