Bazlama

WHAT: Traditional Aegean Breakfast

A great little discovery; a small gem of a place for those seeking something a little more genuine and mouth-watering than the turn out of usual "traditional Turkish breakfast" menus offered at every other street corner (whether it's the neighbourhood oldie or hyped new-comer). The place offers just one fixed breakfast menu; which yes seems limiting at first but is also most likely one of the reasons that makes it worth going there. If focusing on one thing is what's needed to bring out this variety of refreshingly fresh, home-made dishes with quality ingredients (as one would have at home and only naturally expect when eating out) then bring it on.

Needless to say everything is very tasty and prepared with care. You can order more of any plate you want (it's so distasteful to feel limited at breakfast!) and note that the only sort of bread here, earning it its name, is fresh, soft and deliciously warm 'bazlama' (flat, circular, leavened bread). Not to mention that everything is served quickly and the presentation is attentive and with charm.

OCCASION: Weekend breakfast! Best suggested to enjoy as 4 px. (its lots of food to go around for 2 and a bit of a tight area for more people).

ENVIRONMENT: Small place so not very roomy seating. Made of 3 areas: 1) a small balcony on street side holds 2-3 table. 2) Two inner rooms (again not very large) 3) a back "garden" that is more like a narrow sort of passage within the backside shrubbery - but very charming and a fresh little oasis from the hullabaloo of the streets!

AMBIANCE: Warm, cozy, friendly.

STYLE: Casual; as you feel comfortable.

LOCATION: Nişantaşı, Istanbul