Turkey is a land rich in history, culture, and most importantly, food. From bustling markets to cosy restaurants, Turkish cuisine is a delightful blend of flavours and traditions. This guide will take you on a culinary adventure through Turkey, highlighting must-try dishes and unique food experiences. To make the most of your trip, consider renting a car in Turkey to explore different regions and their culinary treasures.
Breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi in Istanbul. The breakfast spread includes fresh bread, cheeses, olives, honey, eggs, and much more. It's a hearty and delicious way to begin your culinary journey.
Istanbul is famous for its street food. Don’t miss trying simit, a sesame-crusted bread ring, or a döner kebab, which is a sandwich filled with succulent, spiced meat. For a sweet treat, try a cup of salep, a warm, milky drink made from orchid root.
For a more substantial meal, visit Çiya Sofrası, a restaurant renowned for its diverse selection of traditional dishes from different regions of Turkey. Try the lamb stew, stuffed vine leaves, and unique regional desserts.
Konya, a city in Central Anatolia, is famous for its pide, often called Turkish pizza.
This delicious dish consists of flatbread topped with a variety of ingredients such as minced meat, cheese, and vegetables. Head to a local pideci (pide shop) for an authentic experience.
Kayseri is known for its manti, small dumplings filled with spiced meat and served with yoghurt and garlic sauce.
It's a comforting dish that's packed with flavour. Try it at a local restaurant for an unforgettable meal.
Izmir, located on the Aegean coast, offers some of the best seafood in Turkey. Enjoy fresh fish, calamari, and shrimp at a seaside restaurant. A popular dish to try is midye dolma, mussels stuffed with spiced rice.
The Mediterranean region of Turkey is famous for its olive oil-based dishes. In Antalya, sample zeytinyağlılar, a variety of cold dishes cooked with olive oil, including stuffed peppers and artichokes. These dishes are light, healthy, and bursting with flavour.
Gaziantep is a paradise for meat lovers, known for its rich variety of kebabs. Try the beyti kebab, made with ground lamb and spices, or the local favourite, şiş kebab, which is grilled meat on skewers. Enjoy these dishes at a traditional kebab house for the best experience.
Gaziantep is also famous for its baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup. Visit a local patisserie to taste this delectable dessert, which is considered the best in Turkey.
To fully explore the diverse culinary landscape of Turkey, consider renting a car. Rent a car in Turkey to easily travel between cities and discover hidden culinary gems. Having a car will give you the freedom to visit local markets, vineyards, and remote eateries at your own pace.
Turkey can be visited year-round, but spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the best times for a culinary adventure. The weather is mild, and seasonal ingredients are at their peak.
When dining in Turkey, it’s customary to share dishes with others at the table. Don’t be surprised if you’re offered tea (çay) multiple times a day; it’s a symbol of hospitality. Also, remember to say “Afiyet olsun!” which means “Enjoy your meal!”
Turkey is a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the tranquil coasts of the Aegean and the rich flavours of Eastern Anatolia, there’s something for every palate. Rent a car in Turkey to make the most of your culinary adventure and savour the rich and diverse flavours this beautiful country has to offer.
