Serpme Breakfast
"Serpme Kahvaltı is a sprawling Turkish breakfast spread featuring dozens of small plates including multiple cheeses, olives, jams, honey, eggs (often menemen—scrambled with tomatoes and peppers), fresh vegetables, and bread. The word 'serpme' means 'spread out,' reflecting the abundant, communal nature of this meal. It's designed to be leisurely, social, and substantial enough to fuel you until dinner."
Logistics
Moderate
Vibe
Communal, Abundant, Leisurely
Duration
1-2 hours
Best For
Groups
The Backstory
The elaborate Turkish breakfast tradition evolved from Ottoman court cuisine, where variety and abundance demonstrated hospitality and wealth. Van province in eastern Turkey claims to have originated the modern serpme style in the 1960s. What was once a weekend ritual has become Istanbul's most popular brunch culture, with dedicated 'breakfast streets' emerging in neighborhoods like Beşiktaş.
Local Secret
"Avoid the overpriced 'Grand Breakfasts' in tourist zones like Sultanahmet. Instead, head to Beşiktaş's 'Breakfast Street' for authentic, reasonably-priced spreads frequented by locals."