As Istanbul was the capital city until 1923, embassies were concentrated in Pera district. Istiklal Caddesi, a major entertainment district, is now a pedestrian zone with the exception of two nostalgic tramcars going up and down the high street. Istiklal Caddesi leads to Taksim Square, one of the main centres of the city. It will take a lifetime to taste the finest foods of Turkey. Based on the heritage of the vast Ottoman Empire, which extended from the gates of Vienna in the northwest to the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula.
Turkish cuisine is extremely rich.
Scores of wonderful seaside fish restaurants in Istanbul, Izmir and along the Aegean and Mediterranean Coasts offer the best there is of sea food. The articles about the history, food and dining in Istanbul are taken from the 'Habitat II' booklet.