Places to eat in Central Anatolia

Central Anatolia offers a rich variety of traditional Turkish cuisine and modern dining experiences. Here are some top food and restaurant recommendations from different cities in the region:

1. Ankara

Trilye Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood, this is one of Ankara's finest spots for fish and seafood lovers. Located in the city center.

Zenger Paşa Konağı: Located near Ankara Castle, this historic mansion offers traditional Turkish dishes such as Ankara tava, testi kebabı (pottery kebab), and tandır (slow-cooked meat).

Kirit Cafe: A cozy spot in the Tunalı Hilmi area, famous for its homemade desserts and organic breakfasts.

2. Kayseri

Altınsaray Restaurant: A perfect place to try Kayseri's famous mantı (Turkish dumplings), yağlama (layered meat dish), and dishes made with Kayseri's signature sucuk (spicy sausage) and pastırma (cured beef).

Kaşık-La: Known for its homemade mantı, this is a popular place to enjoy traditional Kayseri foods like pastırma and sucuk.

3. Konya

Somatçı Fihi Ma Fih Restaurant: A modern twist on Konya’s traditional dishes, this restaurant is especially known for its tandır (oven-roasted lamb) and etli ekmek (meat flatbread).

Ali Baba Fırın Kebap: A more traditional spot to enjoy Konya's famous fırın kebabı (oven-roasted lamb) and various pide (Turkish flatbreads).

4. Eskişehir

Pişştii: A go-to spot for Eskişehir's renowned çibörek (deep-fried pastry filled with meat). The place serves a variety of local pastries.

Balaban Köfteci: Famous for serving Eskişehir’s signature dish, balaban köfte, which consists of grilled meatballs served on bread with yogurt and sauce.

Varuna Gezgin Cafe: With a bohemian vibe, this café offers a wide selection of international dishes and a popular breakfast menu.

5. Nevşehir (Cappadocia)

Topdeck Cave Restaurant: Located in Göreme, this unique cave restaurant offers traditional Cappadocian dishes like testi kebabı (cooked in clay pots) and local wines.

Ziggy Cafe: In Ürgüp, this restaurant serves a fusion of traditional Turkish mezes and Mediterranean dishes, with a scenic view of the town.

6. Aksaray

Taşpınar Tandır Evi: A family-run restaurant where you can savor local specialties like tandır kebabı (slow-cooked lamb in a tandoor) and kuyu kebabı (pit-roasted lamb).

7. Sivas

Lezzetçi Et Lokantası: A popular place among locals, offering Sivas köftesi (meatballs) and various grilled meats.

8. Kırşehir

Kaman Cevizli Lokanta: A restaurant famous for dishes made with walnuts, a local specialty, including walnut-stuffed dolma and walnut desserts.

9. Yozgat

Yozgat Testi Kebabı: Yozgat’s famous testi kebabı, a dish cooked in a clay pot, is a must-try. Many restaurants in the city specialize in this unique dish.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Central Anatolia Hotels page.