Exploring Antalya Cuisine
If you’re flying to Antalya for a holiday, then you’re going to want to brush up on the culinary delights you’ll find here. The cuisine of Antalya is as diverse as its landscape, combining bold Mediterranean flavours with the rich spices and herbs typical of the Middle East and Turkey. The use of fresh vegetables, seafood caught from the Mediterranean Sea, and exotic spices are hallmarks of Antalyan cooking, resulting in dishes that are both flavourful and wholesome. This culinary diversity not only satisfies the palate but also tells the story of Antalya’s historical trade connections and cultural exchanges.
Signature Dishes of Antalya, Turkey
To get a good feel for the culinary flair of Antalya, a good place to start is by sampling some of the signature dishes that this region is known for. Some of the most popular dishes of Antalya include:
Shish-Meatball and Piyaz
This dish combines skewered and grilled meatballs with piyaz, a white bean salad with tahini, vinegar, and herbs. It’s a protein-packed meal that reflects the straightforward yet robust flavours of Antalya.
Iç Pilav
A delightful rice dish mixed with pine nuts, currants, spices, and sometimes bits of liver or meat, iç pilav is a staple at celebrations but can also be enjoyed as a hearty meal any day.
Arap Kadayifi
A lesser-known yet great dessert, arap kadayifi is a sweet, syrupy pastry made from shredded wheat, filled with nuts and heavy syrup, showcasing the sweet side of Turkish gastronomy.
Baklava
No culinary tour of Turkey would be complete without savouring baklava. This sweet pastry made of layers of filo, filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey, is a favourite in Antalya and is a must-try if you’ve got a sweet tooth.
Hibes
A unique regional spread made from tahini, garlic, red pepper flakes, and cumin, hibes is typically served with bread and is perfect for kickstarting an appetising meal.
Alanya Bohcasi
Originating from the Alanya district, this dish is a kind of pot roast, where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked to perfection, often in a clay pot, infusing the dish with incredible depth and flavour.
Goleviz
A traditional salad made from a local variety of watercress, mixed with garlic, lemon, and olive oil, Goleviz is both refreshing and nutritious, embodying the essence of local produce.
Street Food and Casual Eats in Antalya
The street food scene in Antalya is vibrant and offers a wealth of affordable, tasty options that provide a genuine taste of local cuisine. From simit (Turkish bagels) to kebabs and seafood sandwiches, the streets of Antalya are bustling with flavours and new culinary experiences. For the best results, visit the bustling lanes of Kaleiçi or check out the local food markets where traditional recipes have been perfected over generations.
Traditional Desserts and Beverages of Antalya
After a savoury meal, a traditional Turkish dessert is a must. Apart from baklava, other sweets like kadayıf and sekerpare (a soft pastry soaked in syrup) are widely popular. These sweet treats can be perfectly paired with a strong cup of Turkish tea or coffee. For those who enjoy a bit more adventure, Ayran (a yoghurt-based drink) or Raki (an anise-flavoured spirit) are traditional beverages that encapsulate the Turkish dining experience.
Antalya Restaurants
Where to Indulge in Local Flavors When it comes to dining out in Antalya, you’ll find no shortage of restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine. Here are some of the best restaurants in the city to sample traditional Antalya dishes:
Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant
Located in the heart of Antalya’s old town, Seraser offers a fine dining experience with a focus on traditional Turkish and Ottoman cuisine. The restaurant’s elegant ambiance and attentive service make it a popular choice for special occasions.
Vanilla Lounge
Situated in the trendy Lara district, Vanilla Lounge is known for its creative dishes and modern take on Turkish cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, meats, and vegetables.
Yemenli Restaurant
For a taste of authentic Turkish cuisine, head to Yemenli Restaurant in the Kaleiçi district. The restaurant is known for its flavorful dishes, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere.
Falez Restaurant
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Falez Restaurant offers stunning views and delicious food. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of seafood dishes, as well as traditional Turkish meze.
Akdeniz Hatay Sofrası
If you’re looking for a casual dining experience, Akdeniz Hatay Sofrası is a great choice. The restaurant specialises in dishes from the Hatay region of Turkey, known for its flavorful spices and unique flavours.
Tips for Culinary Explorers
For those planning to explore Antalya’s culinary landscape, it’s helpful to know a few phrases in Turkish to order food. Always show appreciation to your host or chef, as this is deeply ingrained in Turkish hospitality. Lastly, be adventurous and try to visit places that might not be on the typical tourist trail – you might discover hidden culinary gems.
Exploring Antalya’s food scene is now easier than ever with Corendon Airlines. Enjoy a user-friendly online booking process that helps you plan your adventures in Antalya seamlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a curious foodie, Antalya’s culinary delights are just a flight away. Book your journey and prepare to indulge in some of the best foods that Turkey has to offer.
