This little candy store in Bebek is a treasure that gracefully produces and displays traditional Ottoman sweets and chocolates. Meshur Bebek Badem Ezmesi is a stand-alone store in Bebek that was established in 1904. The name of the store translates to “famous Bebek almond paste.” Rather than offering the ubiquitous “Turkish delights” on display at the famous bazaars, here their specialty is marzipan. There are two flavors: the cream colored one is the traditional almond paste marzipan, and the green one is a very rich pistachio marzipan. You can buy them in beautifully packaged gift boxes or in little plastic bags for smaller quantities. The marzipans don’t hold well in the plastic bags and need to be consumed immediately. The storefront displays other Turkish treats like chocolates, candies and nuts. In fact, the marzipans are slightly hidden, as they are stored under the wood counter in what I thought of as a secret chest (actually designed to keep them out of the sun so they don’t melt). The almond marzipans are stored on one side and the pistachio on the other, and an ornately carved wood panel slides either way to reveal the secret treats. The chocolate covered pistachios are wrapped individually in beautifully colored wrappers, adding a layer of luxury to this tasty experience. It is easy to lose oneself in a confectioner’s shop as gorgeous as this one, but make a note that the treats here are pricey. However, it’s not every day that you are in Istanbul, so why not indulge?