Cankaya Ankara, Turkey Travel Guide
Standard ingredients in Ankara's cuisine include lamb, beef, and chicken, often grilled or slow-cooked. Vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, and peppers appear frequently, along with onions and garlic. Yogurt is a staple, used in sauces, drinks, and as a side. Wheat in various forms—bread, bulgur—forms the basis of many meals. Olive oil is widely used, notably in cold dishes. Herbs like mint, parsley, and dill add freshness. Spices like red pepper flakes (Pul biber), cumin, and sumac contribute to the distinctive flavors.
Regional Variations within Ankara: While Ankara does not present as distinct local specialties as some other Turkish cities, you will find an emphasis on hearty meat dishes and wheat-based staples. Ankara Tava is a local specialty. This lamb or beef stew, baked in a clay pot, offers a taste of the region's traditional cooking. The freezing temperatures, dry climate of Central Anatolia historically shaped a cuisine that favors warming, substantial meals.
A substantial meal, often including cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, boiled eggs, various breads, jams, and endless tea. It might be a long, leisurely affair, especially on weekends.
For many, midday meal is the main meal of the day, typically eaten between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Lokantas (local eateries) are common choices for a quick, hearty, and affordable lunch.
Dinner is typically later, from 7:00 PM onwards, and commonly a social event. Families and friends gather for more elaborate meals.
A traditional Ankara dish. It features lamb or beef (sometimes chicken) slow-prepared with tomatoes, peppers, and grains of rice in a clay pot, usually accompanied by a crispy top layer.
Discover it in traditional Anatolian restaurants.
A thin, crispy flatbread garnished with ground meat, finely chopped vegetables, and herbs. Often called "Turkish pizza," it typically rolls up and eats with a squeeze of lemon.
A popular street food.
Long, hand-minced meat kebabs grilled on skewers over charcoal. Adana Kebap is spicy, while Urfa Kebap offers a milder flavor. Both are flavorful and often come with grilled vegetables and flatbread.
Grilled to perfection.
Layers of phyllo pastry filled with nuts (pistachios or walnuts) and sweetened with syrup. A rich and flaky dessert.
Jelly-like cubes dusted with powdered sugar, available in various flavors like rose, lemon, and pistachio. A popular sweet.
Several upscale restaurants exist in Çankaya and Kavaklıdere. They offer modern Turkish cuisine or international menus, often with remarkable city views. These locations cater to special occasions.
Abundant throughout the city, especially in Kızılay, Tunalı Hilmi, and Bahçelievler. They provide a variety of Turkish dishes, including various kebabs, and some international options. These restaurants portray a comfortable dining experience at reasonable prices.
Lokantas are traditional, no-frills eateries serving daily changing menus of home-style Turkish dishes. They offer excellent value. Esnaf Lokantası are similar, known for quick service. Street food includes Döner, Simit, and Lahmacun.
Various neighborhood markets offer fresh produce, cheese, olives, and sometimes prepared foods. These are great places to get elements for a picnic.
Authentic local retail.
CarrefourSA and Migros are significant supermarket chains for groceries. They portray a wide selection of international and local products.
Wide selection.
Pizza, Pasta, Risotto
Noodles, Rice, Wok Dishes
Sushi, Ramen, Tempura
Burgers, Fried Chicken, Chains
This is challenging. Wheat is a key part in Turkish cuisine. You will need to talk your needs clearly. Grilled meats (without marinades), rice, salads, and vegetable dishes prepared without flour may be safe options.
Learn phrases like "glutensiz" (gluten-free) or "buğday alerjim var" (I have a wheat allergy).
Nuts (especially pistachios in desserts), dairy (yogurt is very common), and eggs are regularly used. Always inquire about ingredients if you have severe allergies.
Language translation apps and pre-written allergy cards in Turkish are highly recommended.
Discover a range of Turkish Delight flavors and textures. Many varieties feature nuts and fruit flavors, some are simpler. Confirm ingredients for specific allergies.
For those wanting to sample or take home sweets, explore alternatives like an Authentic Turkish Delight Dessert Assortment.
Numerous local operators or arts centers at Ankara offer Turkish cooking classes. These portray hands-on experience with traditional recipes, giving you a understanding of the cuisine.
Food tours focus on exploring different neighborhoods and tasting local specialties. These often include street food and visits to traditional markets, depicting a guided culinary journey.
Farm visits are less common as a traveler attraction directly within Ankara's urban area. Some excursions to nearby rural certain places might offer such experiences, especially if you have a specific interest in agricultural production.
Layers of phyllo pastry filled with nuts (pistachios or walnuts) plus dessert-likeened with syrup. A rich and flaky dessert.
A classic for any sweet tooth.
A hot, crispy cheese pastry soaked in sweet syrup, often garnished with pistachios. It is typically served warm, displaying a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.
A warm, cheesy delight.
Ankara offers diverse dining, from traditional Turkish cuisine to options from abroad.
Choices for all budgets, from street food to fine dining.
Engage in food tours, cooking classes, or traditional Meyhane meals.
Always try local specialties like Ankara Tava and Mantı for an authentic taste of the region.
