Bolu, located in the Western Black Sea Region, is renowned for its rich culinary culture. Before addressing the question of what to eat in Bolu, it’s important to note that this city has produced some of the best chefs over the years. Being from Bolu means immersing oneself in a rich gastronomic heritage. Thus, it is hard to find a place in Bolu that serves bad food.

By the time you finish reading this article, which aims to answer the question of what to eat in Bolu, you will learn about the finest delicacies this city has to offer and where to savor them in their most delicious forms. At Bilet Dükkanı, we not only answer the question of what to eat in Bolu but also discuss the best dining places where you can enjoy these dishes.

Bolu Dishes

Abant Kebab

One of the first flavors that comes to mind when thinking of Bolu cuisine, Abant kebab undoubtedly holds its place on the list of famous Bolu dishes. Unlike traditional kebabs, Abant kebab is prepared like a stuffed eggplant, featuring roasted and halved garden eggplants filled with a mixture of vegetables and meat, topped with mozzarella cheese and baked in the oven.

Mengen Rice

Mengen rice is one of the distinguished members of the famous Bolu dishes list. Made with mushrooms, walnuts, tomatoes, and diced lamb, this rice dish is among the most delicious in Bolu cuisine.

Yedigöller Kebab

There are numerous kebab selections on the list to answer the question of what to eat in Bolu. Bolu has a rich variety of kebabs. Yedigöller kebab is one of the most beloved Bolu delicacies, combining both white and red meats. This kebab is made by frying the meats, which are then mixed with bread soaked in their juices, accompanied by grilled vegetables.

Ovmaç Soup

Ovmaç soup, a delicacy unique to Bolu, is enjoyed by the locals throughout the year. It bears similarities to yayla soup and is also referred to as oğmaç soup.

Creamy Walnut Noodles

Let’s start by explaining what ‘keş’ is. Keş refers to dried yogurt, which has been salted and drained to extend its shelf life and has a texture almost resembling cheese. This delicious ingredient is often used in noodle preparation. Creamy walnut noodles derive their name from their ingredients and are one of the finest delicacies in Bolu.

Kaldırık Dolması

This dish is a type of stuffed grape leaf made using the leaves of a plant called hodan instead of regular grape leaves. It definitely ranks among the upper echelons of famous Bolu dishes. It reaches its best flavor when served with strained yogurt.

Kedi Batmaz

Kedi batmaz is a famous dessert from Bolu. Optionally, it can also be prepared in a savory version. Due to its location in the Western Black Sea Region, cornmeal is a key ingredient. In the sweet version, the flavor comes from molasses, walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon, while the savory version is prepared with keş, goose liver, and butter.

Bolubeyi Dessert

The sweetest treat among Bolu dishes is undoubtedly Bolubeyi dessert. Reminiscent of profiteroles, this dessert consists of cream-filled dough balls, served with a small amount of chocolate sauce and Mudurnu palace helva.

Paşa Pilaf

When talking about pilaf, one might initially think of rice, bulgur, or various types of vermicelli, but this pilaf is made with potatoes and eggs. It consists of boiled potatoes and eggs served with plenty of greens and salad dressing, resembling potato salad.

Broad Beans Casserole

Though not frequently mentioned in the list of famous Bolu dishes, broad beans casserole is renowned for its delightful taste. It is described as the perfect union of vegetables and meat, making it one of this city’s most special dishes.

Bolu Meatballs

As mentioned in our other food-related blog posts, there are over 300 different types of meatballs within Turkey’s borders. Among these unique and delicious meatballs, Bolu meatball stands out. Made with Mengen cheese, garlic, and minced meat, Bolu meatballs are undeniably among the most loved local flavors.

Pumpkin Gözleme

When we mention pumpkin, we’re referring to the sweet, delicious pumpkin, not the green variety. This groundbreaking pumpkin gözleme is among the most popular dishes in Bolu cuisine.

Potato Village Bread

If the Italians have gnocchi, then Bursa boasts potato village bread. This delicious bread is made by incorporating boiled and mashed potatoes into the dough, which is then leavened and baked in stone ovens, creating a dish that doesn’t require additional sides.

Palace Halva

When searching for famous Bolu dishes, you’re likely to encounter palace halva among the first results. This dessert is loved and consumed throughout Turkey. Similar to cotton candy, palace halva has a much denser texture.

Pide with Filling

When asked what to eat in Bolu, it might be challenging for someone unfamiliar with the city to mention pide with filling.

Bolu Chocolate

Made from hazelnuts collected from the city’s high altitudes, Bolu chocolate is a must-try delicacy in this region. It ranks among the sweetest responses to the query of what to eat in Bolu, and you’re sure to love it.

İmaret Soup

Dating back to the Ottoman Empire, İmaret soup is made by combining rice with milk, then thickening it with eggs and flour. It is traditionally served with added red pepper and butter.

Kartalkaya Kebab

As previously mentioned, Bolu is abundant in kebab varieties. One notable dish to make it into the Bolu cuisine list is Kartalkaya kebab. This kebab is created by combining short pastry shells known as volovans with well-seasoned lamb meat and vegetables, briefly cooking them together afterward—making it irresistible.

Bolu Dumplings

Every region of Turkey features its own dumpling variations, but Bolu dumplings are distinguished by their mushroom-filled interiors instead of meat. This makes Bolu dumplings among the best answers to the question of what to eat in Bolu—you will certainly love them.

Best Dining Places in Bolu

Having gathered together the most popular Bolu dishes that must be tried, we will now introduce the best dining establishments in Bolu. The city is not only famous for its renowned dishes but also known for its excellent restaurants. Therefore, we have selected the top dining venues that are considered the best in Bolu for you.

Here are the best dining places in Bolu…

Kubbealtı Restaurant

Kubbealtı Restaurant, one of Bolu’s most famous dining spots, features an oriental ambiance. We particularly recommend their yogurt gözleme. It is located on İzzet Baysal Street, in the Tabaklar Neighborhood.

Oklava

Known for its breakfast, Oklava is among the best dining venues in Bolu. When you think of what to eat in Bolu, Oklava and its kumpir should definitely be on your list. It is situated next to the Governor’s Office on İzzet Baysal Street.

Nameless Gözleme

As the go-to destination for gözleme in Bolu, Nameless Gözleme has been frequented by locals and visitors alike since its opening in 2010. This establishment features a variety of gözleme and is located on Cumhuriyet Street.

Aden Garden Lounge

Aden Garden Lounge is a perfect choice for those who want to dine in a stylish restaurant, making it one of the most preferred spots in Bolu. It is located on Eren Street, in the Tabaklar Neighborhood.

Yörem Dumplings and Baked Goods

Yörem Dumplings is where you can taste the best version of Bolu dumplings, and it is definitely included in the list of the best dining places in Bolu. This establishment has maintained its quality since 1996 and is located on İzzet Baysal Street, on Albay Street.

Paşazade Göynük Sofrası

Located in Göynük on Çaykenarı Street, Paşazade is among the best dining places in Bolu, offering the finest variations of the region’s local dishes.

Mengenli Aşçızade Restaurant

Known for its famous forest kebab and sac kavurma, this restaurant is a favorite for orders. It also features almost every local flavor in its menu and is renowned for its pumpkin dessert. Located on Zonguldak Street in Mengen.

Mercan-i Restaurant

Ranked among the best dining places in Bolu, Mercan-i Restaurant is housed in a building constructed in 1880, showcasing classical Bolu architecture. It is famous for its Köroğlu kebab and various kebab selections along with special Mercan dishes. This location can be found on İzzet Baysal Street, within Özek Street.

Müdür Restaurant

Müdür Restaurant includes nearly every type of local home-cooked meal and stands out among Bolu’s best dining places. It offers an excellent range of flavors for those who enjoy dishes with sauce and is situated on Zonguldak Street in the Mengen district.

From Bilet Dükkanı, we wish you a safe flight and a delightful culinary journey!