Cappadocia’s Culinary Traditions
Cappadocia is famous for its Pinterest-perfect fairy-tale landscapes, hot air balloon rides, and rich cultural heritage. Little did I know before visiting that it also boasts some delightful culinary traditions.
Exploring the region’s food scene is just as rewarding as taking in its breathtaking sights. From cosy family-run kitchens to traditional Turkish breakfasts, here are the best places to eat in Cappadocia, each tried and tested by me!
All of these eateries offer traditional Turkish cuisine, and some operating from a family-run establishment. Being deeply passionate about showcasing local businesses, I hope that highlighting these spots encourages more visitors, ensures the longevity of these establishments, and inspires diners to sample authentic dishes and flavours in this region and across Turkey.
1. Mommy’s Kitchen Teras
If you’re looking for a home-style dining experience, Mommy’s Kitchen Teras is the place to be. This cosy, intimate rooftop spot offers authentic, heartwarming Turkish dishes that make you feel right at home.
Everything we tried was delicious and freshly made to order, and it’s here that I sampled the famous clay pot stew and fell in love with the homemade dip, acuka, served with mouthwateringly fresh bread.
I’d highly recommend timing your dinner to coincide with sunset, as the view is truly spectacular.
2. Nazar Börek & Café
This charming restaurant is my favourite spot in Cappadocia for several reasons. Firstly, its location is slightly from the main (more touristy) downtown area, offering a completely different perspective.
The restaurant is nestled within a rock cave itself, creating a wonderfully atmospheric setting. You can dine upstairs in the rock cavern or opt for a table on the lawn. The views are incredible from every angle, especially at sunset.
Secondly, the owner and his family, who live here and do the cooking, are warm, friendly people. After visiting a couple of times, we were offered fresh apricots from their surrounding farmland. It’s always a win when the atmosphere and picturesque surroundings match the quality of the food.
Their delicious fare – shoutout to their menemen! – and warm hospitality make this a must-visit recommendation for me!
3. Göreme Han Restaurant
Göreme Han Restaurant is an all-rounder, perfect for when you want a quick snack and Turkish tea, or a full-blown meal. We popped in a couple of times for lunch and dinner, and each time enjoyed sitting outside, watching the hustle and bustle of the street.
It’s a no-frills eatery, family-run and affordable — a great spot for authentic eats. Their baklava is exquisite, too!
4. Görkündere Cafe Breakfast
No trip to Turkey is complete without experiencing Serpme Kahvaltı, a lavish spread of Turkish breakfast items, especially here at Görkündere Cafe Breakfast. It’s the best way to fuel up for exploring the stunning Cappadocia landscape and its unique rock formations.
And trust me when I say, this traditional Turkish breakfast spread here is lavish. It consists of various types of bread, cheeses, vegetables, olives, fried treats, sausage, eggs, and MORE. This breakfast is unlimited, so you can ask for top-ups of whatever you fancy — though you most likely won’t need to, as there’s plenty to sample as it is! And all for under £15! The tea is unlimited too, which is a bonus if you’re a tea lover like we are.
There’s no better setting than sitting under a shady tree in this quiet garden oasis. There was even a little bunny rabbit roaming freely!
5. Çikonun Yeri
We uncovered this scenic respite stop after a long hike from our hotel and a visit to Nevşehir Castle. A true hidden gem, Çikonun Yeri offers mouthwatering Turkish dishes and is a must-visit for those who love authentic flavours.
And, as with much of Cappadocia, it comes with a stunning view! The restaurant is spread across multiple tiers, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, scattered with rock formations and wild countryside.
It’s definitely more of a laid-back, local spot with fantastic food and much more affordable prices— perfect if you’re looking to eat out on a budget.
Come hungry to Cappadocia!
Cappadocia is not just about mesmerising landscapes; it’s also a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re craving a hearty home-cooked meal, a full traditional Turkish breakfast, or a sweet Turkish tea, these eateries offer the best flavours of the region, coupled with some of the friendliest, most welcoming hospitality.
Until next time,
Lica xoxo
