A food lover’s guide to Turkey: The best restaurants you need to try

A Food Lover’s Guide to Turkey: The Best Restaurants You Need to Try

Turkey is a country with a rich and diverse culinary heritage. From Mediterranean-style dishes to delectable Turkish delicacies, there is something to suit every taste bud. Food lovers will have an enjoyable time exploring the country’s diverse cuisine. In this guide, we’ll be sharing some of the best places to eat in Turkey.

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Turkey is a foodie’s paradise, and we’re excited to help you plan your culinary adventure. We’ve researched and compiled this list of restaurants that serve authentic and delicious Turkish cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these are the must-visit restaurants that will take you on a journey through Turkey’s diverse culinary landscape.

Istanbul

Karakoy Gulluoglu Baklava

If you’re in Istanbul, you can’t leave without trying the city’s famous Baklava. Karakoy Gulluoglu Baklava is a family-owned bakery that’s been making Baklava since the 1800s. They use high-quality ingredients and traditional methods to create delicious Baklavas. You can choose from different varieties, such as pistachio, walnut, and hazelnut. Make sure to stop by this bakery to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Mavi Balik

Mavi Balik is located by the waterfront in Istanbul’s trendy neighborhood of Karakoy. This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh fish and simple yet flavorful dishes. The menu changes daily, depending on what’s available at the market. We highly recommend trying their grilled octopus and stuffed mussels. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it an excellent spot for a relaxing meal by the sea.

Antakya

Beyran Evi

Beyran Evi is a popular spot in Antakya for traditional Turkish dishes. This restaurant is famous for its Beyran soup, a hearty and spicy lamb soup. The soup is made by simmering lamb and rice for hours, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic dish. The restaurant also serves other traditional dishes like hummus, kibbeh, and stuffed grape leaves. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and hospitable staff make it a great place for a meal with family and friends.

Pideci Sahin Usta

Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread that’s often filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Pideci Sahin Usta is a popular restaurant in Antakya that specializes in pide. They use fresh ingredients and traditional methods to make their pides. The restaurant’s most famous dish is the pide with lahmacun, a meat and tomato filling. If you’re looking for a filling and delicious meal, Pideci Sahin Usta is the place to go.

Izmir

Ayvalik Patlicanli Lokanta

Ayvalik Patlicanli Lokanta is a family-owned restaurant in Izmir that serves traditional Aegean cuisine. The restaurant’s specialty is eggplant dishes. They use fresh and locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful dishes like eggplant with minced meat and tomato sauce. Make sure to try their fried eggplant with garlic yogurt sauce, a creamy and delicious appetizer that’ll leave you wanting more.

Kumru Aynen

Kumru is a type of sandwich that’s popular in Izmir. It’s made with a special sesame bun filled with cheese, tomato, and sausage. Kumru Aynen is a small shop that serves the best kumru in town. They use high-quality ingredients and fresh bread to create their sandwiches. The restaurant’s friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere make it a great place to grab a quick and delicious meal.

FAQs

Q: What is Beyran soup?
A: Beyran soup is a lamb and rice soup that’s often served in southeastern Turkey. The dish is known for its spicy and aromatic flavor.

Q: What is pide?
A: Pide is a type of Turkish flatbread that’s often filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It’s similar to pizza but has a different texture and flavor.

Q: What is kumru?
A: Kumru is a type of sandwich that’s popular in Izmir. It’s made with a special sesame bun filled with cheese, tomato, and sausage.

Q: What is Baklava?
A: Baklava is a dessert made with layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

Q: What should I try at Mavi Balik?
A: We highly recommend trying their grilled octopus and stuffed mussels.