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.

Central Anatolia is a treasure trove of culinary experiences, where each city offers its own unique flavors and traditions. Whether you are looking for local specialties or modern interpretations of Turkish cuisine, the region has something for every palate.