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Home > Destinations > Middle East & Africa > Turkey > Types > Turkey Food & Wine

Turkey Food & Wine

Indulge in Turkey’s Culinary Heritage, from Istanbul’s Neighborhoods to Gaziantep’s Flavors

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turkish food

Experience the authentic spirit of Turkey through its vibrant neighborhoods in Istanbul, where you can enjoy meze and then discover the slow-cooked flavors of Cappadocia's cave restaurants and the Aegean region's olive-oil based dishes, and finally experience the powerful flavors of Gaziantep, which stands as Turkey's culinary center. Explore local markets in Izmir and taste wines in Urla and Bozcaada, or participate in farm-to-table activities in countryside villages. The journeys enable you to meet farmers and winemakers, and artisans who sustain these customs, which transform your dining experiences into narrative experiences. 
 

A Journey Through Turkey’s Food & Wine

Taste authentic Turkish cuisine, explore regional flavors, and savor fine wines rooted in ancient traditions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Turkish cuisine known for?
Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich variety of flavors and diverse influences, combining elements from the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean. It includes delicious dishes such as kebabs, meze (small appetizers), pilaf, and baklava for dessert. Common ingredients include fresh vegetables, yogurt, olive oil, lamb, and various herbs and spices.
What are some must-try Turkish dishes?
Some must-try Turkish dishes include:
  • Kebabs (such as doner, shish, and adana)
  • Meze (a selection of small appetizers like hummus, baba ganoush, and stuffed grape leaves)
  • Pide (Turkish flatbread pizza)
  • Baklava (sweet pastry with layers of filo dough, honey, and nuts)
  • Köfte (Turkish meatballs)
  • Manti (Turkish dumplings filled with meat and topped with yogurt and garlic)
Is Turkish food spicy?
Turkish food is not typically very spicy in terms of heat, but it is full of rich flavors. Many dishes are seasoned with herbs, spices, and chili, but the heat level is generally mild. However, certain regional specialties, such as spicy kebabs or dishes with chili paste, can have a bit more heat.
What are some famous Turkish wines?
Turkey has a long history of wine production, with several local varieties of grapes. Some well-known Turkish wines include:
  • Kalecik Karası (a red wine with fruity and floral notes)
  • Öküzgözü (a full-bodied red wine)
  • Narince (a white wine with refreshing citrus and floral flavors)
  • Vinkara (a popular Turkish winery producing high-quality wines)
  • Boğazkere (a robust red wine from the Southeast region)
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options in Turkey?
Yes, Turkish cuisine offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Many traditional dishes such as mercimek çorbası (lentil soup), imam bayıldı (stuffed eggplant), and kısır (bulgur salad) are plant-based. Additionally, meze platters often include a variety of vegetable-based dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and muhammara (spicy red pepper dip).
What is a Turkish breakfast like?
A traditional Turkish breakfast is a feast for the senses, usually consisting of a variety of dishes served on the table. It includes:
  • Simits (sesame-crusted bread rings)
  • Cheeses (feta-style and soft white cheese)
  • Olives
  • Tomatoes and cucumbers
  • Honey and kaymak (clotted cream)
  • Eggs (often prepared with sucuk, a Turkish sausage)
    Accompanied by Turkish tea or çay, the breakfast is both filling and varied.
Can I pair Turkish food with local wines?
 Absolutely! Turkey's wine culture complements its diverse cuisine. For example, a glass of Öküzgözü pairs well with grilled meats or kebabs, while a crisp Narince white wine goes perfectly with seafood and light vegetable dishes. Many local wineries in regions like Cappadocia and the Aegean coast offer wine tastings with local food pairings. 
Where can I experience the best food in Turkey?
 To experience authentic Turkish cuisine, major cities like Istanbul, Gaziantep, and Izmir are fantastic food destinations. You can also visit smaller towns like Bodrum or Antalya, where you can explore local markets and enjoy fresh produce and seafood. Street food is a big part of the experience, with vendors offering everything from simit (sesame bread) to kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes).