The pearl of the Aegean, İzmir, is not only renowned for its rich cultural heritage but also for its breathtaking nature, warm-hearted people, and delicious local flavors. Where and what to eat in İzmir is just as important as where and what to see. That’s why we’ve prepared this İzmir food guide for you, so you can learn about the region’s unique tastes and discover the most famous restaurants whenever you fly to İzmir. If you’re ready, let’s get started!
İzmir Food Guide
With its unique cuisine, İzmir offers a wide array of famous flavors waiting to be discovered. From hidden street corners to seaside spots, and from cozy snack bars to elegant restaurants, the rich culinary culture turns İzmir into a true food paradise. The warmth of street food and the freshness of seafood come together perfectly in this city. If you’re wondering what to eat and where to eat in the city, here’s the ultimate İzmir food guide!
Boyoz
The first answer that comes to mind when asked about İzmir food is undoubtedly boyoz. This pastry, synonymous with İzmir’s cuisine, is made by layering dough, kneading it with plenty of oil, and baking it to perfection. The result is a crisp outer layer and a soft, fluffy inside. Boyoz is typically enjoyed with boiled eggs and tea. While it’s most commonly eaten plain, today you can also find variations like spinach, mozzarella, and eggplant-filled boyoz. If you can’t get enough of this treat in İzmir, you can even buy frozen boyoz to stock up your freezer. Wondering where to eat boyoz in İzmir? You can try the iconic Dostlar Fırın or one of the many street vendors.
İzmir Kumru
One of İzmir’s most famous street foods, kumru, is a delicious sandwich typically made with a warm, crispy bun filled with ingredients like sausage, cheese, and tomatoes. Kumru in İzmir is especially popular as a quick snack during lunch hours. The best places to eat Kumru are Kardeşler Büfe in Konak or Kumrucu Ömer in Karşıyaka.
Cold Cuts
İzmir street food is a true highlight of the city. From boyoz to gevrek, kumru to söğüş, you can find a wide variety of delicious options on the streets of İzmir. Locally called “Söğüş”, cold cuts are made from thinly sliced meat flavored with olive oil and lemon, and typically served with parsley and onion wrapped in a flatbread. You can try Söğüşçü Niğdeli Muammer Usta or Söğüşçü Cimbom for this flavor.
Bagel aka “Gevrek”
The locally loved gevrek of İzmir is similar to a bagel but thinner and crispier. It’s commonly enjoyed during breakfast or as a quick snack. You can grab a freshly baked gevrek from street vendors and pair it with a glass of tea for a perfect snack and relaxation moment.
Stuffed Mussels
Stuffed mussels, may not be everyone’s favorite, but for its fans, İzmir is undoubtedly the best place to enjoy this delicacy. As a highlight of the food in İzmir you can try stuffed mussels from street vendors or visit Serkan Hamza Midye ve Balık in Balçova for a more refined experience.
İzmir Bomb
With its thin, slightly crispy crust and gooey chocolate filling, İzmir bomb is the perfect treat for a sweet break. Best enjoyed warm, the molten chocolate oozes out, delivering an explosion of flavor that lives up to its name. For the best İzmir bomb, head to Çelebi Unlu Mamülleri in Konak.
Kokoreç
Kokoreç is the Turkish name for grilled sheep’s intestines and it is famous in İzmir. “The best kokoreç you’ll ever taste might just be in İzmir,” and we wouldn’t be exaggerating. Wondering where to eat kokoreç in İzmir? Kokoreççi Asım Usta and Kokoreççi Baki are among the top spots to try this local delight.
Şambali Dessert
Another iconic dessert of İzmir, the şambali dessert, is made with semolina, yogurt, sugar, and flour. The şambali dessert, served with clotted cream in between, can be enjoyed at the famous Hisarönü Şambalicisi.
İzmir Meatball
One of the most famous dishes unique to İzmir, “İzmir Köfte” is a filling and nostalgic dish where meatballs are baked with potatoes and cooked in tomato sauce. You can enjoy this İzmir local food with peace of mind, especially at local restaurants in Konak, Güzelyalı, or Bornova.
Desserts with Gum Mastic
If you love desserts with mastic, we have great news for you! You can find delicious mastic desserts in İzmir. Best places to eat in İzmir: historic Rumeli Pastanesi 1945 and İmren Tatlıcısı.
It’s certainly possible to create a longer list when it comes to eating and drinking in İzmir, but we’ve highlighted the most popular and beloved flavors. If you’re planning a unique trip to İzmir and want to taste all these delights, book your İzmir flight ticket now! You might also be interested in our content on Day Trip Discoveries: Attractions Nearby İzmir.
