Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Türkiye

Kebap is a cornerstone of Turkish cuisine, featuring marinated meat cooked on skewers or grilled. The most famous variety is Adana Kebap, made from minced lamb and spices, served with flatbread and salad.

Manti are tiny Turkish dumplings filled with spiced ground meat, typically served with a yogurt and garlic sauce. They are often topped with melted butter and paprika for an extra kick.

Often referred to as 'Turkish pizza', lahmacun is a thin flatbread topped with minced meat, vegetables, and spices, then baked until crispy. It's typically rolled up with fresh greens and served with lemon.

Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It's a beloved dessert often served during special occasions and holidays.

Künefe is a traditional Turkish dessert made from shredded filo pastry soaked in syrup and layered with gooey cheese. It's baked until crispy and best served hot, often garnished with pistachios.

Ayran is a traditional Turkish yogurt-based drink, slightly salty and refreshing. It's a perfect accompaniment to spicy meals, helping to cool the palate.

Simit is a circular bread, similar to a bagel, coated in sesame seeds and baked to perfection. It's a popular street food, often enjoyed with cheese or jam.