Circle of Tradition: Discovering Turkey’s Beloved Simit

Simit is one of the most iconic and beloved street foods in Turkey. This golden, sesame-crusted circular bread appears on street carts from the early morning, fresh out of the oven. Often enjoyed with a glass of strong Turkish tea served in a tulip-shaped glass, simit is not just a quick and affordable snack — it’s a daily ritual deeply woven into the lives of locals. With roots dating back to the Ottoman era, it carries cultural significance as well as culinary delight. Whether shared with seagulls on a ferry ride, paired with cheese and olives in a park, or savored plain while strolling through city streets, simit is a symbol of Turkish simplicity and hospitality. For every traveler visiting Turkey, holding a warm simit in one hand and sipping tea with the other is more than a snack — it’s a moment of immersion into local life. Eating simit is one of the simplest yet most authentic ways to experience the true flavor of Turkey.