Turkish cuisine offers vegetarian and vegan travelers a multitude of options. We present our selection of the best dishes and where to eat them.
When you think of Turkish cuisine, the first thing that comes to mind is kofta and kebabs, but there are many dishes suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, vegetarian and vegan restaurant options have multiplied across the country in recent years, offering travelers the opportunity to try Turkish cuisine without giving up their dietary needs.
Although many large cities have fantastic restaurants and cafes for vegetarians, most everyday Turkish food can be easily adapted for those who do not consume meat. The simit They are sesame seed-covered buns, similar to bagels, that are an easy and cheap snack. The breakfast (Turkish breakfast dishes) offer hearty vegetarian-friendly dishes, with lots of fresh bread, cheese, olives, tomato, cucumber, jams and crispy pastries like pastry y pencil pastry, And that is only the beginning). We also found asksa type of flatbread that comes with a wide variety of ingredients, many of which are vegetarian.
Are you curious? We show you what to try and where to do it in Türkiye.
Ve a: Community Kitchen, Estambul
You’ll find: vegan versions of Turkish classics
On the north side of the Golden Horn, this compact, brick-walled restaurant is a specialist in vegan Turkish food. Vegetarians will enjoy their versions of kebab (seitan), kofta and baklavas. The menu varies depending on the season, but it’s easy to try their popular vegan döner kebab along with some of their sweets. Plus, on Saturdays you can delight in delicious homemade vegan brownies. The atmosphere is relaxed, with reading material about plants and rustic wooden furniture perfect for getting comfortable.
How to get there: Take the tram to Beyoğlu Tünel or walk from the Karakoy ferry which is just 15 minutes away.
Ve a: Dr. Falafel, Ankara
You will find: falafel in all its forms
Falafel is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, and this casual spot in the bustling center of Ankara is set to offer new takes on the salads and wraps so popular in Western Europe. Although their burgers, wraps, sandwiches and mezze dishes have falafel as their central element, it can be made with pea protein or chickpeas. In addition, their menu options come accompanied by Ayran, a cold yogurt-based drink that is very common throughout the country. Dr. Falafel makes vegan versions so lactose intolerant visitors won’t be left without trying it.
How to get there: Walk ten minutes south from Kızılay metro station.
Ve a: Junk Vegan, Ankara
You’ll find: vegan fast food (and its chocolate pudding and cookie pie)
Being vegan doesn’t mean eating only salad and vegetables. This restaurant in the capital is ideal for vegetarians craving burgers and fries and offers delicious sandwiches, wraps, burgers and fried side dishes with minced soy meat. There are also sauces, juices and our favorite dish: the cake with biscuits or cookie cake. This sweet treat comes with a side of chocolate pudding and is the perfect treat with plant-based ingredients.
How to get there: About a 20-minute walk south along Atatürk Boulevard from Kızılay Metro Station.
See: Cappadocia Pide House, Goreme
You will find: Order, of course!
Cappadocia is high on the hit list of many tourists visiting Turkey for the first time, and it’s important to keep your energy up while enjoying one of the country’s most stunning destinations. After soaking up the morning at the Goreme Open Air Museum, refuel with a helping of asks in this charming restaurant specializing in Turkish breads. Inside, the atmosphere is informal with brick walls, while outside there are numerous outdoor tables. Try Turkish tea to accompany your choice of picado, which can be served topped with mushrooms, cheese, tomatoes and even walnuts.
ADVERTISINGHow to get there: Walking around; Goreme is small so it is easy to explore on foot. Head to Hakki Pasa Meydani #16.
And a: Restaurante Bolulu Osman’s
You will find: Traditional Turkish food in an emblematic place
On the southern coast of Turkey, a few hours west of Antalya, lie the ruins of the ancient city of Patara. The Roman remains (including an amphitheater, city gates and a well-preserved main street) date back to 100 AD. C. and attract tourists from all over the world. But in addition to its incredible history, Patara also has great places to eat, like this quiet gem. The extensive menu includes all the Turkish classics (kebabs, asks, in the middle, Ayran), as well as pasta and moussaka dishes. Apart from being affordable and offering delicious dishes, one of its best features is that it is located just a five-minute drive from the beautiful Patara Beach.
How to get there: Fly to Dalaman and drive the 120 km to Patara by car or bus.
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