What to Eat in Cappadocia?

This content was last updated on 07.02.2024 00:29

Cappadocia, one of Turkey's most popular tourist destinations, is known for its natural beauty and unique culture. Renowned for its centuries-old historical caves, Cappadocia also features fairy chimneys formed as a result of wind and rain erosion, offering natural wonders to explore. Moreover, Cappadocia boasts a developed culinary culture. Local delights such as dolma, mantı (Turkish dumplings), and kebabs, particularly, are among the most beloved dishes.

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What to Eat in Cappadocia?

Testi Kebabı: Tray kebab prepared in Avanos pottery is famous for its slow cooking. This kebab, found in many restaurants in Cappadocia, is served by breaking the pottery.

Kabak Çekirdekli Erişte: Must-try pasta with pumpkin seeds served as a side dish with meals.

Yaprak Sarma: You can see vineyards almost everywhere in Cappadocia. Freshly picked leaves from these vineyards are used in making grape leaves rolls.

Ürgüp Köftesi: Ürgüp köftesi, made from a mixture of potatoes and minced meat, is among the flavors you can find in all places in Cappadocia.

Nevşehir Mantısı: Easier to make than Kayseri mantı, this dumpling is made with bread dough and served with yogurt after being baked.

Düğü Çorbası: Düğü, a fine type of bulgur, is a soup cooked with roasted tomato paste butter. It is one of the preferred flavors by the local people, especially during winter.

Dolaz: Known as the egg and walnut version of halva, dolaz uses molasses instead of sugar.

Köftür: Grapes harvested in October are used in making köftür by the locals. Also known as grape delight, be sure to taste the köftürs sold as souvenirs in the markets.

The Best Restaurants in Cappadocia

1. Revithia

If you are looking for a place in Cappadocia where you can feel special with its elegant presentations and unique concept, we can mention that Revithia is highly acclaimed. This venue, which also offers vegan and vegetarian-friendly products, allows you to try their tasting menu.

Phone: +90 384 341 88 77

Address: Kayakapı, Davut Ağa Sokak No:1, 50400 Ürgüp / Nevşehir

2. Zeferan Cappadocia

Known as a steakhouse restaurant, Zeferan is also an ideal place for families with children. Before visiting this venue where you can enjoy interacting with the horses in its garden, be sure to make a reservation.

Phone: +90 384 352 12 22

Address: Mustafapaşa Köyü Yeni Mahalle Ürgüp Sokak No:11 (within the AJWA Cappadocia Hotel area), 50402 Ürgüp / Nevşehir

3. Haruna Kapadokya

This venue, providing both accommodation and dining services, is actually located within a hotel. The place, where you can enjoy the sunset view, also hosts romantic evening dinners. Be sure to try their unique flavors prepared with seasonal ingredients.

Phone: +90 384 271 27 12

Address: Avcılar Mahallesi, İsali Gaferli, Manav Çıkmazı Sokak No:4, 50180 Nevşehir

4. Millocal Restaurant

Millocal Restaurant, like Harun, operates within the premises of a hotel. With its glass ceiling and walls, this venue offers a panoramic view of Cappadocia, presenting the region's most beloved flavors with a unique richness.

Phone: +90 535 100 19 25

Address: Tekelli, Karlık Sk. No:28, 50240 Uçhisar/Nevşehir Merkez / Nevşehir

5. Reserved Restaurant & Lounge

This restaurant, where you can fully feel the historical texture of Cappadocia, caters to both large groups and couples. In addition to the long-established tables, it stands out with its appetizers.

Phone: +90 384 219 25 23

Address: Aşağı, Adnan Menderes Cd. no 50 -1, 50240 Uçhisar / Nevşehir

6. The Plum Restaurant

The Plum, widely admired by tourists visiting the region, offers a high-quality menu for those seeking a fine dining experience. You can savor flavors such as peppered steak, crispy shrimp, and beef carpaccio.

Phone: +90 384 219 22 23

Address: Tekelli, Tekelli Kümesi No:8, 50240 Uçhisar / Nevşehir

7. Seki Restaurant & Lounge

Another restaurant with a view you won't get enough of: Seki. You can enjoy watching Cappadocia's famous balloons and the sunset at this venue, and its cocktail menu is quite rich. Don't forget to make a reservation before going.

Phone: +90 384 219 31 30

Address: Tekelli, Kayabaş Sk. No:23, 50240 Merkez / Nevşehir

8. Seten Restaurant & Rooftop Bar

One of the places you will love with its historical structure and view is Seten Restaurant. This venue, which features both local and international flavors on its menu, is also renowned for its cocktails.

Phone: +90 384 271 30 25

Address: Aydınlı Mah, Aydınlı Sk. No:42, 50180 Göreme / Nevşehir

9. Barbarian Medieval Tavern

This venue, where wood is extensively used in the interior, captivates you with its rustic atmosphere the moment you step through the door. Offerings include chicken drumstick lollipops, grilled quail skewers, brisket sandwich, among other unique flavors.

Phone: +90 542 341 74 76

Address: Temenni, Bey Sk. No:4, 50400 Ürgüp / Nevşehir

10. Apetito Restaurant

This restaurant offers services in two different areas, both indoors and outdoors, presenting homely local flavors. Especially during the winter months, you can make your dinner more special by enjoying the fireplace.

Phone: +90 533 133 40 28

Address: Musaefendi, Ahmet Refik Cad. No:4, 50400 Ürgüp / Nevşehir