Turkey, with its unique geography and the myriad cultures that inhabit it, holds a distinguished place in the world due to its cuisine. Our country, which showcases flavors that have become part of world literature across a wide range of categories—from sweets to meat dishes and from salads to olive oil-based dishes—also boasts many “creative cities” recognized by UNESCO in the field of gastronomy. In this article, we have compiled some of the gastronomic cities in our country that are distinguished by their rich cuisine and flavors.

Hatay

Hosting countless civilizations for thousands of years, Hatay presents flavors that carry the influences of Ottoman, French, and Arab cuisines. With its diverse array of dishes, mezes, and desserts, Hatay is truly a gastronomic haven where one can enjoy delightful flavors at any time of the day. Known for its unique offerings such as Testi Kebab, Antakya salty yogurt, and Künefe, this city frequently incorporates local ingredients like peppers, eggplants, olives, chickpeas, tomatoes, and walnuts into its dishes. Additionally, Kömbe, peppered bread, Aşşur, Kaytaz pastries, and paper kebabs are must-try delicacies when visiting Hatay.

Kayseri

Kayseri, recognized as one of the prominent cities in Turkey’s Creative Cities of Gastronomy list, is famous for its delectable offerings. Known worldwide for its manti (Turkish dumplings), Kayseri also excels in the production of pastirma and sucuk (cured beef and sausage). Other notable local specialties include yağlama, pöç, kete, katmer, kurşun aşı, and nevzine. With a rich culinary heritage dating back approximately 6,000 years, the city showcases flavors influenced by various cultures.

Afyonkarahisar

As one of the countless gastronomic stops in the Aegean region, Afyonkarahisar was included in UNESCO’s list of “Creative Cities” in gastronomy in 2019. Famous for its sucuk (sausage), the region is also well-known for its clotted cream. Traditional dishes like Ekmek Kadayıfı, Afyon Kebab, eggplant pancakes, paçık, and arabaşı are among the region’s celebrated flavors. As a historical junction of Anatolia, Afyonkarahisar reflects thousands of years of cultural heritage in its cuisine.

Gaziantep

Gaziantep is often referred to as the “Gastronomy Capital of Turkey,” and it truly lives up to this title with its rich culinary offerings that attract tourists from around the globe. The city features over 50 locally recognized products, renowned for its pistachios and peppers. Visitors can savor an array of dishes including Alinazik, Beyran, eggplant kebabs, simit kebabs, chickpea wraps, baklava, fıstıklı katmer, and İçi Kofte, available throughout the day and night.

Adana

Another notable city when it comes to gastronomy is Adana, home to a variety of delicious and historically rich culinary delights. Specialties to try include Adana kebab, kazbaşı, vardabit soup, lahmacun, liver, şırdan, içli köfte, mumbar, fellah köftesi, analı kızlı, baba ganoush, and bici bici. A city recognized by UNESCO for its gastronomy, Adana eagerly awaits those looking to taste new and unforgettable flavors.