I EAT: Ottoman Empire Era Cuisine

Though my trip to Istanbul was a whirlwind of scrumptious meals, my favorite dinner was without at doubt at the Matbah restaurant. The menu's concept is adorably novel (and let's face it, touristy): all the dishes are based of original Ottoman Empire recipes. In the menu, selections are even presented with the earliest-known date of record. 

Go for the great service, calm ambiance, and if you like your food slightly on the sweeter side. Or actually, just go for the complimentary pomegranate juice. Mindblowing. Attempts at descriptive captions included. I should really start taking pictures of the money for memory's sake. Enjoy the pictures after the jump!

Sailor's Roll: phyllo dough rolls stuffed with cheese and peas and served with honey. Knockout dish of the night.

Squid stuffed with a blend of rice, nuts, cinnamon, and mint. Baked.

Chicken stewed with apricots and almonds.

Lamb with figs, raisins, honey, and almonds. Another knockout!