Turkey is a country rich in culture, history, and, most importantly, food. From traditional Ottoman dishes to contemporary street food, Turkey offers a culinary experience like no other. With a SelfDrive Turkey rental car, you can explore the country’s best food destinations at your own pace, indulging in its diverse flavors and cuisines.
Here’s a guide to some must-visit food spots in Turkey, each offering a unique taste of the country’s culinary heritage.
1. Nusr-Et Steakhouse – Fine Dining in Istanbul
For a high-end dining experience, Nusr-Et Steakhouse is famous for its expertly prepared steaks and meats, pioneered by the viral sensation "Salt Bae." This restaurant is a must-visit for meat lovers in Istanbul.
What’s famous?
- Signature steaks
- Lamb chops
- Salt Bae’s famous meat seasoning
How to get there?
Located in Istanbul, Nusr-Et is a 30-minute drive from the city center. With a Renault Taliant from SelfDrive Turkey, you'll have a stylish and comfortable ride, perfect for navigating Istanbul’s lively streets.
2. Ciya Sofrasi – Traditional Anatolian Cuisine
For an authentic Turkish dining experience, Ciya Sofrasi in Istanbul is the place to be. This restaurant offers traditional dishes from all over Anatolia, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and ancient cooking methods.
What’s famous?
- Stuffed grape leaves
- Manti (Turkish dumplings)
- Eggplant dishes
How to get there?
Located in the Kadikoy district of Istanbul, Ciya Sofrasi is a 25-minute drive from the main city. Your Citroen C5 Aircross from SelfDrive Turkey offers a smooth and spacious ride, ensuring comfort as you explore the local cuisine.
3. Gaziantep – The Capital of Turkish Cuisine
Gaziantep, located in southeastern Turkey, is known as the culinary capital of the country. The city is famous for its kebabs, baklava, and rich flavors influenced by Middle Eastern cuisine.
What’s famous?
- Gaziantep-style kebabs
- Pistachio baklava
- Lahmacun (Turkish pizza)
How to get there?
From Istanbul, Gaziantep is a longer road trip, taking about 10 hours by car. Renting a Dacia Duster from SelfDrive Turkey will give you the perfect vehicle for a comfortable and fuel-efficient journey on your culinary adventure across the country.
4. Meze by Lemon Tree – Mediterranean Cuisine
Located in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district, Meze by Lemon Tree offers a modern twist on traditional Turkish mezes, with a Mediterranean influence. This restaurant is perfect for those looking to sample a wide variety of small plates and shareable dishes.
What’s famous?
- Assorted mezes (cold and hot)
- Octopus salad
- Grilled sea bass
How to get there?
Meze by Lemon Tree is only a 15-minute drive from central Istanbul. The Renault Megane from SelfDrive Turkey will get you there in style, with its refined interior and smooth driving experience, making it ideal for exploring Istanbul’s dining scene.
5. Karaköy Güllüoğlu – Legendary Baklava
No culinary trip to Turkey would be complete without indulging in baklava, and Karaköy Güllüoğlu in Istanbul is considered the best place to try it. Known for its perfectly layered phyllo dough and pistachio filling, this shop has been serving baklava since 1949.
What’s famous?
- Pistachio baklava
- Walnut baklava
- Şöbiyet (creamy pastry)
How to get there?
Located in Istanbul’s Karaköy neighborhood, it’s just a 10-minute drive from the city center. The Opel Mokka from SelfDrive Turkey is a great choice for this quick trip, offering a compact yet powerful drive through Istanbul’s bustling streets.
6. Street Food Haven: Kadikoy Market
If you're a fan of street food, Kadikoy Market in Istanbul is a paradise. This lively market is packed with vendors offering a variety of Turkish street foods, including simit (Turkish bagels), midye dolma (stuffed mussels), and dürüm (wraps).
What’s famous?
- Simit
- Midye dolma (stuffed mussels)
- Dürüm (wraps)
How to get there?
Kadikoy Market is located in the Asian side of Istanbul, just a 25-minute drive from the European side. With a Renault Taliant or Citroen C5 Aircross from SelfDrive Turkey, you can enjoy the scenic drive across the Bosphorus Bridge, with plenty of space for all the local treats you pick up along the way.
For a detailed guide on the food spots and cafes, refer to WanderOn and Holidify.
Conclusion: Explore Turkey’s Flavors with SelfDrive Turkey
Turkey’s diverse food scene is best explored on your terms, and with SelfDrive Turkey, you can create your own culinary road trip. From the bustling markets of Istanbul to the culinary capital of Gaziantep, having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore and indulge in the country’s incredible flavors.
Note: Prices and offers are subject to change. Please verify details with the provider.