Istanians are omnivores, but their diets lean heavily toward meat. In their earliest generations, many of the ancestries altered by the Shattering had strong carnivorous tendencies. As these traits persisted through interbreeding, Istanians gradually developed sharper teeth and more pronounced canines. Even today, this adaptation makes the consumption of meat easier and more instinctive, shaping their preference for carnivorous diets.

That said, Istanians are fully capable of eating plant-based foods, and their digestive systems handle a wide range of vegetation, grains, and fruits with little difficulty. Many communities supplement their meals with herbs, roots, and seasonal crops, especially in regions where hunting is scarce or game is considered sacred. In cosmopolitan areas, Istanians may cultivate a reputation for enjoying spiced meats or exotic preparations, seasoning their food in ways that mirror their elemental affinities; embers of fire, cooling brines of water, fragrant mineral salts of earth, or light, airy infusions of wind.

For some, diet is more than sustenance; it is symbolic. Istanians whose crystalline affinities align with particular elements sometimes lean into foods that resonate with those traits. A fire-touched tiefling might prefer smoked or roasted meats, while one with water-born traits may favor seafood or stews. Even so, personal preference often outweighs tradition. Across Nimoria, Istanian cuisine is as varied as their people.