Last updated on December 21, 2023.

Chopped up intestines might not sound very appetizing to 99% of my readers, but for me, it’s become the perfect late-night treat. Kokoreç, or kokoretsi (κοκορέτσι) in Greek, is served in just about every neighborhood in Istanbul.

Kokoreç stand in Üsküdar, Istanbul, Turkey
Kokoreç stand in Üsküdar

 

What Is It?

Basically, it’s a mixture of finely chopped lamb or goat intestines, diced tomatoes, and peppers, perfectly spiced to your taste with a dash of lemon. It’s usually served in bread – in a half loaf (yarım), or quarter (çeyrek) – that soaks up all the tasty juices. If you’re avoiding carbs you can also get a portion of meat only and skip the bread.

Sound good? No? Well, I guarantee if somebody gave you kokoreç and told you to eat it without telling you exactly what it was, chances are, you would love it.

 

Long Night?

Kokoreç isn’t one of those foods you just sit down to eat for a nice meal. Of course, it very well can be. But in most cases, it seems to come at you spontaneously at the end of a long night of drinking. Or a really weird night, i.e. “I have a feeling this night is gonna end with kokoreç”.

 

Where To Eat It

Most Turks will tell you the best safest place to get kokoreç is a popular chain found all over Turkey called Şampiyon Kokoreç. Think of them as the McDonald’s of guts. In my opinion, it’s pretty good, but not out of this world.

My absolute favorite is Ozzie’s, which is a block from Tünel off Istiklal Street. It came highly recommended by my friend Deniz and didn’t disappoint. It’s a good idea to make reservations before visiting. Trust me – this is the best kokoreç I’ve ever eaten.

Ozzie's Kokoreç
Ozzie’s
Portion of kokoreç at Ozzie's Kokoreç
Portion at Ozzie’s
Kokoreç sandwich at Ozzie's Kokoreç
Yarım sandwich at Ozzie’s

In Kadıköy, I prefer a little place called Reks on Kadife Sokak, conveniently located right next to a row of bars and across the street from Rexx Cinema in the Moda district.

Reks Kokoreç
Reks
Reks Kokoreç
Çeyrek sandwich at Reks
Author

Owner of Paisadventure. World traveler. Chicago sports lover. Living in Colombia.

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