If you’re traveling to Turkey, come hungry. Turkish cuisine is full of rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and centuries-old traditions. From street food to traditional home-style dishes, there's always something new to taste and most travelers end up falling in love with the food before anything else.
Here’s a guide to ten must-try dishes that will give you a real taste of Turkey.
There are many types of kebab in Turkey — Adana, Urfa, Iskender, and more. Each region prepares it differently. If you can, order it with lavash bread and ayran, a cold salty yogurt drink locals love.
Some people call it “Turkish ravioli.” These tiny dumplings are topped with garlic yogurt and melted butter mixed with red pepper flakes. In some restaurants, it is handmade daily — it’s worth asking.
Crispy layers of pastry filled with pistachios or walnuts and sweet syrup. Gaziantep is famous for the best baklava, but you can find great baklava even in Istanbul. Order it with Turkish tea for the full experience.
A crispy sesame-covered bread ring, usually sold by street vendors. It’s great for breakfast or a quick snack while exploring. Try it with cheese or Nutella if you want something sweet.
Vegetables (often peppers or zucchini) filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. “Sarma” refers to grape leaves wrapped around the filling. It’s a common homemade dish — every family has a slightly different recipe.
Often called Turkish pizza, but thinner and crispier. Topped with minced meat and herbs, and usually rolled with parsley and lemon juice. Locals squeeze plenty of lemon on top — don't be shy.
Scrambled eggs cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and olive oil. Some add cheese or sausage. It’s best enjoyed with fresh bread and Turkish tea. Most cafes serve it in a hot pan straight from the stove.
Cooked slowly inside a sealed clay pot, then cracked open at your table. It’s commonly found in Cappadocia and feels like a little show during dinner.
Soft, chewy sweets with flavors like pistachio, rose, or lemon. Don’t buy it from tourist shops only — local markets often have better quality.
Strong, thick, and full of flavor. It’s not just a drink — it’s part of the culture. After finishing the cup, some locals even read the fortune in the coffee grounds.
Turkish food tastes best when shared. If you visit a traditional restaurant, ask for “meze”, which are small plates meant for the whole table. You’ll get a bit of everything — and that’s the real way to eat like a local.
✨ Want to explore Turkish cuisine with a food tour?
We can arrange authentic local experiences — including cooking classes, street food tours, and traditional restaurants across Istanbul and Cappadocia.
Contact us for a customized food journey through Turkey.
