Dining with Seagulls in Istanbul
Istanbul is a city of contrasts—where East meets West, ancient meets modern, and land meets sea. But amidst the grandeur of palaces, mosques, and bustling streets, there is one constant companion to the city’s rhythm: the seagulls. These lively birds have been an inseparable part of Istanbul’s identity for centuries, soaring over the Bosphorus, perching on historical minarets, and greeting travelers arriving by ferry.
At Queb Rooftop Restaurant, located in the heart of Sultanahmet, you don’t just admire the city’s beauty from above—you share it with Istanbul’s most famous winged residents. Whether you’re enjoying a breakfast, lunch, or dinner, expect a few curious seagulls to drop by, adding a touch of magic to your dining experience. The seagull feeding pose has become a must-try trend among visitors, creating unforgettable moments and stunning photographs.
Seagulls and the Bosphorus: A Natural Symphony
The Bosphorus Strait is home to one of the largest seagull populations in Turkey. These birds follow the ferries, glide over fishing boats, and swoop down to catch small fish, creating a mesmerizing spectacle against the backdrop of Istanbul’s skyline. They have been immortalized in Turkish literature, poetry, and music, symbolizing freedom, nostalgia, and the timeless connection between the city and the sea.
Sitting on the terrace of Queb Rooftop Restaurant, you have a front-row seat to this avian ballet. As you sip on a warm cup of Turkish tea or enjoy a freshly prepared dish, you’ll witness the seagulls dance in the sky, playfully circling above the Bosphorus waters. The seagull feeding pose trend’s popularity has grown significantly on social media, with many visitors capturing the perfect shot as these birds gracefully take food from their hands.
View this post on Instagram
Breakfast with Seagulls: A Morning Like No Other
Imagine starting your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, while seagulls swoop and dive nearby. At Queb Rooftop Restaurant, mornings are lively, filled with the sounds of Istanbul waking up—and the occasional call of a friendly seagull hoping for a treat.
What’s on the Breakfast Menu?
- Freshly baked simit (sesame-crusted bread rings)
- Local cheeses and olives
- Organic honey and jams
- Turkish tea served in iconic tulip-shaped glasses
- Traditional menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers)
And don’t be surprised if a seagull tries to photobomb your breakfast pictures—it’s all part of the Queb Rooftop experience!
Lunch and Dinner Under the Watchful Eyes of Seagulls
As the day unfolds, Queb Rooftop becomes an even more enchanting spot to enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner. With the golden hues of sunset reflecting off the Bosphorus, the atmosphere is truly unforgettable. The restaurant’s diverse menu features fresh seafood, succulent kebabs, and flavorful mezes, perfectly paired with a glass of Turkish wine or raki.
The seagulls? They remain ever-present, gliding through the twilight sky, their silhouettes adding to the romance of the evening. Some may even perch on nearby rooftops, watching over your meal like self-appointed dinner guests.
View this post on Instagram
Capture the Moment: Seagull Selfies on the Terrace
One of the most exciting parts of dining at Queb Rooftop Restaurant is the chance to take the ultimate seagull selfie! The seagull feeding pose trend’s popularity continues to rise, making it a must-do experience for visitors. These photogenic birds are more than happy to join in on the fun, making for incredible memories and Instagram-worthy snapshots. Just hold up a piece of simit, and watch as they swoop in for the perfect shot!
An Istanbul Experience Like No Other
A meal at Queb Rooftop Restaurant is more than just dining—it’s an adventure with Istanbul’s seagulls. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a scenic lunch, or a romantic dinner, the playful presence of these birds adds a special charm to your experience.
So next time you find yourself in Sultanahmet, head to Queb Rooftop, embrace the city’s seagull culture, and let these feathered locals be part of your Istanbul story!
