Turkey is a land of rich flavors and diverse culinary traditions. From hearty meat dishes to sweet pastries, Turkish cuisine is a feast for the senses. Here's a guide to some of the country's most iconic local dishes and where to try them in the main cities.

Istanbul

As Turkey's cultural and gastronomic capital, Istanbul is a must-visit destination for foodies. Here are some local dishes to try in Istanbul:

  • Kebabs: From Adana kebab to Iskender kebab, Istanbul is famous for its mouth-watering grilled meat dishes.
  • Börek: A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, börek is a popular snack in Istanbul. Try it at Saray Muhallebicisi, a local chain of pastry shops.
  • Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, honey, and pistachios, baklava is a dessert that's hard to resist. Head to Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a legendary baklava shop in Istanbul, to try the best in town.

Ankara

Turkey's capital city may not be as famous for its food as Istanbul, but it still has some delicious local dishes to offer. Here are a few to try in Ankara:

  • Döner kebab: Originating in Ankara, the döner kebab is a staple of Turkish fast food. Head to Öz Adana Kebapçısı, one of the city's best-known döner restaurants.
  • Ankara Tava: A hearty meat and vegetable stew served with rice, Ankara Tava is a comforting dish that's perfect for cold winter nights. Try it at Mavi Lokanta, a popular restaurant in the city center.
  • Simit: A circular bread covered in sesame seeds, simit is a popular snack in Ankara. Look for street vendors selling simit in the city's parks and squares.

Izmir

Located on Turkey's Aegean coast, Izmir is known for its seafood and fresh produce. Here are some local dishes to try in Izmir:

  • Kumru: A sandwich made with grilled cheese, sausage, tomato, and lettuce, Kumru is a popular street food in Izmir. Head to Kumrucu Hikmet, a legendary kumru shop in the city center.
  • İçli Köfte: A type of meatball filled with spiced meat and bulgur, İçli Köfte is a specialty of the Aegean region. Try it at Ciğerim İçli Köfte, a local restaurant that's been serving the dish for over 70 years.
  • Levrek: Grilled sea bass is a must-try in Izmir, where the fish is always fresh. Head to one of the seafood restaurants along the city's Kordon waterfront to savor this delicious dish.