8 Delicious Turkish Dishes to Try on Your Trip

Many travelers visit Turkey not only for its beautiful places but also for its tasty food. The country has a rich food culture. There are meals for every taste. This Turkish food guide will show you the best flavors to try during your visit. From slow-cooked meat to quick snacks, each meal tells a story. Below are 8 must-try Turkish dishes that you should not miss.

1. Kebap – A Famous Turkish Favorite

One of the most loved Turkish dishes is kebap. There are many types. Adana kebap is spicy and grilled on a skewer. It is made with minced lamb and red pepper. Another style is doner kebap. It is made with meat slices stacked and cooked on a vertical grill. Locals eat it with bread or rice.

Want to taste different types in one day? Try a food tour in Istanbul or Gaziantep.

2. Lahmacun – Thin and Crispy Street Food

Lahmacun is a thin round bread topped with ground meat, tomatoes and herbs. It is baked in a hot oven. Locals add lemon and greens before rolling it up. It is light and easy to eat. You can find it in many street food places and bakeries.

3. Manti – Turkish-Style Dumplings

Manti are tiny dumplings filled with meat. They are boiled and served with yogurt and garlic sauce. A hot butter with chili is poured on top. This dish is soft and creamy. It is popular across Turkey. Kayseri is the home of manti, but you can find them in many restaurants.

Want to learn how to make them? Tasting tours offer cooking classes with local families.

4. Menemen – A Tasty Turkish Breakfast

Menemen is a dish made with eggs, tomatoes and green peppers. Sometimes cheese or sausage is added. It is cooked in a pan and served hot. This is a favorite breakfast dish. People eat it with bread and tea. 

For a full Turkish breakfast, look for restaurants that serve many small plates. These include olives, cheese, jam and more.

5. Iskender – A Rich and Filling Plate

Iskender is one of the most well-known Turkish dishes. It has sliced doner meat placed over bread. Hot tomato sauce and melted butter are poured on top. Yogurt is served on the side. The dish is heavy and full of flavor. It started in Bursa but is now popular everywhere. 

Want to try the original version? Plan a food trip to Bursa and ask for local Iskender.

6. Borek – A Crispy Snack Anytime

Borek is a baked or fried pastry. It is made with thin dough and filled with cheese, meat or spinach. It is crispy outside and soft inside. This snack is sold in bakeries and cafes. You can eat it for breakfast or lunch. You can also take part in a borek-making class during your stay.

7. Kofte – Juicy Turkish Meatballs

Kofte are meatballs made with beef or lamb. They are mixed with herbs and onions. They can be grilled, baked or fried. Every region has its own kind. Izmir kofte has tomato sauce. Tekirdag kofte is a bit spicy. These meatballs are great with rice or salad. Try them in a local family-style restaurant.

8. Baklava – A Sweet Ending

Baklava is the most famous dessert in Turkey. It has thin layers of dough filled with nuts. After baking, sweet syrup is added. Pistachio baklava is the most popular kind. It is sweet and rich. One piece is often enough.

Want to try the best baklava? Visit dessert shops in Gaziantep or Istanbul.

These delicious Turkish dishes are more than just food. They are part of local life. Every bite shows the care and love behind Turkish cooking. Planning a visit to Turkey soon? Make sure to try these must-try Turkish dishes. Each one brings a new taste and memory.

Looking for the best places to eat or special food tours? Contact us now to create a custom plan with real flavors and local charm.