Gastronomy
A Taste of Türkiye: Love at First Bite!
Discover the Flavours of Türkiye
Turkish cuisine is a journey in itself—an astonishingly rich tapestry of diverse flavors, just like the country’s culture.
From local cheeses and wild Aegean herbs to mouth watering street food, savory soups, olive oils, mezes, world-famous kebabs, and indulgent desserts, Türkiye offers a feast for the senses.
Tracing the ancient culinary routes that wind through every region of Türkiye, you’ll discover timeless dishes and cooking traditions passed down through generations, each with its own unique story to tell.
Discover Gastronomic Wonders in Türkiye
Türkiye is a paradise for food lovers, home to several gastronomic hubs known as “Gastro Cities”—where every corner offers a new and exciting culinary discovery.
While İstanbul is the country’s gastrocity capital, other cities should definitely be on your foodie bucket list.
Gaziantep, the “gastronomy capital,” is internationally recognized by UNESCO as one of the top 9 gastronomy cities.
Hatay, known as the “City of Civilizations,” reflects its multicultural heritage through its delicious and unique cuisine. Afyon, a UNESCO member of the “Creative Cities” network in gastronomy, is another must-see for food enthusiasts.
These cities, among others, showcase the remarkable culinary diversity that Türkiye has to offer.
The History Behind Turkish Gastronomy: From Ancient Times to Today
The evolution of Turkish cuisine is a story of cultural fusion, stretching from the ancient Turks’ love of horse meat and mutton to the sophisticated flavors of today.
Turkish food culture has been shaped over centuries, from Central Asia to the Seljuk Empire, the Ottoman era, and into modern times.
During the Ottoman Empire, the kitchens of palaces, mansions, and Istanbul’s renowned chefs helped create a culinary tradition that still flourishes today. With the Republican era came a new wave of influence, as foreign flavors began to shape Turkish cuisine.
Regional diversity plays a key role, as each area—from Eastern Anatolia to the Mediterranean—boasts its own distinct food culture. In recent years, globalization has brought new influences, but the essence of Turkish culinary heritage remains as vibrant as ever.
