SIMIT

Though it may look quite simple, the humble simit is one of Istanbul's single most beloved food items. Topped with toasted sesame seeds, the ring-shaped bread is somewhat reminiscent of a bagel, yet its inside and outer crust are far crisper and crunchier. Simit is commonly eaten at breakfast and is also one of Turks' most beloved snacks, often accompanied by a strong glass of traditional Turkish tea. While the classic simit is sold by street vendors and at bakeries, recent years have seen the opening of a raft of fast food chains—of which the most popular is Simit Sarayi ("Simit Palace")—serving assorted variations, from simit sandwiches to simit-like bread pockets stuffed with cheese or other fillings.