10 typical dishes you must try in Türkiye

They say Turkey is the bridge between Asia and Europe , but it's also a gastronomic route of aromas , flavors , and culinary traditions that blend together. Intense, colorful, and full of life.

Each Turkish dish tells a story , a legacy of the Ottoman Empire , the nomadic peoples of Anatolia , and the cultures that left their mark on this land where East and West meet.

Next, join us on this gastronomic tour of the 10 typical dishes you must try in Turkey .

1. Kebab: The king of the grill in Türkiye

The kebab is undoubtedly the emblem of Turkish cuisine . In every city in the country, you'll find a different version: the Adana kebab , spicy and juicy; the şiş kebab , skewered and grilled over charcoal; or the döner kebab , thinly sliced meat that slowly rotates over the fire. Its intense flavor , accompanied by lavash bread or pilaf rice , reflects the essence of Turkish culinary art .

2. Baklava: The sweet Ottoman legacy

Thin layers of filo pastry , crushed nuts , and a syrup or honey glaze bring to life the irresistible baklava , one of the world's most famous desserts . Its crisp texture and balanced sweet and buttery flavor make it a masterpiece of pastry . In Istanbul , the best bakeries serve freshly baked baklava , accompanied by pistachio ice cream or a cup of Turkish tea .

3. Çorba: The classic entrance in Türkiye

Before any meal, Turks often start with a çorba , or soup . There are many varieties: mercimek çorbası (made with red lentils), yayla çorbası (with yogurt and mint), or tarhana çorbası , made with fermented grains . Nutritious and comforting .

4. Meze: Small bites for big moments

Meze are the Turkish version of tapas : a selection of small dishes served at the beginning of a meal or to accompany raki , the national anise-flavored spirit . Among the most popular are hummus , haydari (yogurt with garlic and herbs), and ezme (spicy tomato salad).

5. Menemen: The Turkish Breakfast

Menemen is an explosion of color and flavor on the breakfast table. It's prepared with eggs , tomatoes , green peppers , and sometimes cheese or sucuk (spicy sausage). Served in a copper pan , its creamy texture and fresh taste make it one of the most beloved dishes in Turkey . Ideal to enjoy with freshly baked bread .

Türkiye from head to toe (11 days / 10 nights)

6. Manti: The ravioli of Anatolia

Manti are small pieces of dough filled with meat , similar to ravioli , but with a unique twist: they are served covered with yogurt , melted butter , and spices such as dried mint or paprika .

7. Order: The Turkish pizza

Pide is a type of long, boat-shaped bread , baked on a stone and topped with ingredients that vary by region: ground meat , kasar cheese , spinach , or egg . Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside , this dish is a must-try at any local restaurant .

8. Börek: Layers that tell stories

Börek is a savory pastry made with filo dough , filled with cottage cheese , minced meat , or spinach . It can be baked , fried , or rolled up . Each thin, crispy layer is a testament to the patience of the person who makes it, and its versatility makes it ideal for both a light breakfast and a quick dinner .

9. Su Böreği: The milder brother of börek

A very special variation is su böreği , literally “ water börek .” Unlike the traditional version, the layers of dough are briefly parboiled before baking, giving it a moister, softer texture . It is usually filled with feta cheese and parsley , creating a perfect balance between savory and creamy .

10. Kumpir: The art of the stuffed potato

Kumpir is a street food favorite in Istanbul . It's a huge baked potato , split in half and mixed with butter and cheese , before being topped with all sorts of ingredients : olives , corn , pickles , sausages , salad , or sauces . It's fast food , but with a Turkish soul .

Bonus: Kahve, the Turkish coffee ritual

Turkish coffee is brewed slowly in a small copper coffee pot called a cezve , unfiltered, to preserve its rich body and deep flavor . It is traditionally served in small cups , accompanied by a piece of lokum (jelly candy) and leisurely conversation . Turkish coffee has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO .

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