Ankara Street Food: Tastes of the Capital

Ankara street food offers an enticing glimpse into the culinary heart of Turkey’s capital. With its vibrant food culture influenced by diverse regional flavors, Ankara presents a variety of local dishes that tantalize the taste buds. From savory gözleme to sweet baklava, street eats in Ankara are more than just meals; they are experiences that connect visitors to the city’s rich heritage. Join us as we explore the top Ankara street food delights, where every bite tells a story.

Key Takeaways

• Ankara street food offers a rich variety of local flavors.
• Signature dishes like gözleme and döner kebap are essential for any food lover.
• Street vendors offer affordable and delicious meals for every budget.
• Exploring local markets and food stalls is the best way to experience Ankara’s culinary scene.

1. Gözleme: The Savory Turkish Flatbread

Gözleme is a beloved street food in Ankara that showcases the simplicity and taste of Turkish cuisine. This delicious flatbread is made from thin layers of dough, rolled out and filled with various ingredients. Common fillings include cheese, spinach, potatoes, or minced meat. After being generously filled, the dough is then sealed and cooked on a traditional griddle until golden brown. The crispy edges and soft center create a delightful texture that is hard to resist.

Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or a satisfying meal, Gözleme is highly popular with locals and tourists alike. It is often found in bustling markets and street vendor stalls throughout Ankara.

Pro Tip: Try Gözleme with a side of yogurt sauce for an added flavor burst!

Where to eat: For some of the best Gözleme, head to Gözleme Evi in the heart of the city, where they prepare this dish fresh to order.

2. Döner Kebap: A Must-Try Ankara Delight

Döner Kebap is perhaps the most iconic dish among Ankara street food offerings. It consists of marinated meat—usually beef or lamb—slowly cooked on a vertical rotisserie. As the meat roasts, it is thinly sliced and served in various forms, such as pita sandwiches, wraps, or on a plate with rice and salads. The flavorful spices and the juicy texture of the meat make it a favorite among food lovers.

This dish has become a staple in Turkish cuisine, attracting both locals and visitors. Additionally, many vendors offer unique toppings, including pickles, onions, and an array of spicy sauces, making each bite exciting.

Insider Tip: Don’t forget to try it with extra garlic sauce or hot sauce for a delicious kick!

Where to eat: For authentic Döner Kebap, visit Dönerci Yaşar, known for its high-quality meat and generous portions.

3. Simit: A Sesame-Encrusted Favorite

Simit is a popular street snack in Ankara that you simply cannot miss. This sesame-encrusted bread ring is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a delightful snack for any time of the day. Often enjoyed with tea or as part of breakfast, Simit is usually served with cheese, olives, and jam, adding to its savory flavor.

This delightful pastry can be found at street vendors across the city, offering a taste of Turkish tradition. Furthermore, the aroma of freshly baked Simit wafting through the air is irresistible!

Fun Fact: Simit is sometimes referred to as the “Turkish bagel” due to its similar shape.

Where to eat: You can find delicious Simit at Çeşme Simitçisi, where they offer various toppings for a perfect pairing.

4. Kumpir: The Loaded Baked Potato

Kumpir is a beloved street food in Ankara that transforms the humble baked potato into a vibrant culinary experience. Typically, it features a large potato that is baked until it’s soft and fluffy on the inside. Vendors then expertly mash the potato’s insides and mix in a generous amount of butter and cheese, creating a creamy base that acts as a canvas for toppings.

What makes Kumpir unique is the wide array of toppings available. From tangy pickles and sweet corn to spicy sausage and olives, you can customize your Kumpir to suit your taste. It’s a dish that brings a burst of flavors with every bite, making it a perfect snack after exploring Ankara’s lively streets.

Pro Tip: For the best Kumpir, head to Yenikent Kumpir, popular for their fresh ingredients and flavorful combinations.

Where to eat: Kumpir can be found at various street stalls, but the kiosk near Gençlik Parkı is particularly famous for its delicious offerings.

5. Mantı: Tiny Turkish Dumplings

Mantı are delightful Turkish dumplings, often likened to ravioli but with a unique twist. In Ankara, these tiny parcels are typically stuffed with seasoned ground meat, usually lamb or beef, and then delicately pinched closed. After cooking, they are served with a drizzle of garlic yogurt and a sprinkle of melted butter infused with paprika.

This dish is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. The combination of tender dumplings paired with the creamy yogurt and aromatic butter creates a wonderful harmony in each bite. Many locals enjoy Mantı as a warm, filling meal any time of the day.

Must-try: Çankaya Mantı is renowned for its authentic Mantı, offering both traditional and modern takes on this classic dish.

Where to eat: Seek out Mantı at local eateries like Ali Baba Mantı, which serves it fresh and steaming, just as it should be.

6. Börek: Flaky Pastry with Local Fillings

Börek is a staple in Ankara’s street food scene, renowned for its flaky pastry and varied fillings. This delightful dish is typically made from thin layers of dough called yufka, which are filled with ingredients such as cheese, spinach, and minced meat. The layers are then rolled or layered before being baked or fried until golden brown.

There are many variations of Börek, each with its own unique taste profile. You might find sweet versions filled with fruits or nuts, or savory ones bursting with flavors from fresh herbs and spices. This versatility makes Börek a beloved choice for a quick snack or a hearty meal.

Tip: Visit Hacı Bozan Oğulları for some of the best Börek offerings in town, known for their crispy fillings and generous portions.

Where to eat: Don’t miss the chance to try Börek at local bakeries or street stalls around Kızılay Square, where it is freshly made daily.

7. Kokoreç: A Unique Grilled Delicacy

Kokoreç is a must-try when exploring Ankara street food. This dish consists of lamb intestines wrapped around seasoned offal, grilled to perfection, and served in a sandwich or as a plate. The flavor is rich and smoky, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. What makes kokoreç unique is its preparation: the intestines are thoroughly cleaned, marinated with spices like oregano and red pepper, and then grilled over charcoal.

In Ankara, especially in neighborhoods known for street food, it’s common to see vendors preparing kokoreç in front of their stalls. The aroma alone is tempting! Additionally, it’s often topped with a sprinkle of salt and served with fresh bread, making it a perfect on-the-go snack.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to try it with a squeeze of lemon and some pickles for an extra zest!

Where to eat: For an authentic kokoreç experience, head to Kokoreççi Şahin, where they grill this delicacy to perfection. Another popular spot is Ali Baba Kokoreç, known for its generous portions and vibrant atmosphere.

8. Çiğ Köfte: Raw Meatballs with a Spicy Kick

Çiğ köfte is another exciting addition to the Ankara street food scene. Traditionally made with raw minced meat and bulgur, this dish is flavored with a variety of spices and seasonings, including red pepper, garlic, and parsley. It’s usually served cold, garnished with lettuce leaves, and sometimes accompanied by a squeeze of lemon.

Due to health regulations, many vendors in Ankara now offer a vegetarian version, which is equally flavorful and packed with ingredients like lentils, nuts, and spiced bulgur. This dish is nutritious, offering a punch of flavors with each bite.

Did you know? Çiğ köfte is often consumed as a wrap in lettuce, making it a fun and interactive experience!

Where to eat: For the best çiğ köfte, look for Hayat Çiğ Köfte, a local favorite known for its traditional recipe. Also, Kral Çiğ Köfte offers a delicious vegetarian version that’s highly recommended.

9. İçli Köfte: Stuffed Bulgur Balls

İçli köfte, or stuffed bulgur balls, is a beloved dish in Ankara street food. Made with a shell of bulgur and semolina, these dumplings are filled with a mixture of ground meat, nuts, and spices. They are then fried until golden brown, creating a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling.

This dish is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer and is popular at local eateries across Ankara. The fillings can vary from region to region, with some versions adding spices or vegetables to enhance the taste. It’s a flavorful treat that’s loved by many, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends.

Pro Tip: Pair içli köfte with a side of yogurt for a refreshing flavor combination!

Where to eat: For a delicious serving of içli köfte, visit Hacı Büyükaşık, a restaurant famous for its traditional dishes. Another great spot is İçli Köfteci, known for their freshly made dumplings.

10. Fresh Juice Stands: Quenching Thirst in Ankara

When exploring Ankara street food, one cannot overlook the delightful fresh juice stands that dot the streets of this vibrant city. These stands offer a refreshing escape from the warm Turkish sun. Served in vibrant cups, you can find juices made from local fruits such as pomegranates, oranges, and grapefruits.

Not only are these juices delicious, but they’re also packed with vitamins, perfect for revitalizing you after a long day of sightseeing. The freshly squeezed pomegranate juice, in particular, has a tangy taste that many locals love. Furthermore, many stands offer blended smoothies, incorporating yogurt and honey for a creamy texture.

Pro Tip: Opt for a mix of different juices for a unique flavor experience and to enjoy a burst of freshness!

Where to drink: Check out Bölge Fırtınası Juice Bar for a variety of fresh juices, or head to vegan Fresh Juice for delightful smoothies and health-focused blends.

11. Turkish Ice Cream: A Playful Treat

Also known as dondurma, Turkish ice cream is a must-try during your culinary journey through Ankara. This unique treat is thick and stretchy, thanks to the salep (a flour made from the tuber of a wild orchid) and mastic used in its preparation. Vendors often engage in playful antics while serving it, making the experience memorable.

Each scoop comes with a variety of flavors, including classic options like vanilla and pistachio, and more adventurous choices like rose or fig. The playful back-and-forth with the vendor as they tease you while serving is part of the joy of enjoying this dessert.

Did you know? In Turkey, it’s common to see long queues at ice cream stalls, especially in warmer weather, as everyone wants to savor this delicious treat!

Where to eat: For the best Turkish ice cream, visit Mado or Buzlu, where you can experience the distinctive stretching technique firsthand!

12. The Sweet Flavor of Baklava

No exploration of Ankara street food would be complete without indulging in baklava—one of Turkey’s most famous desserts. Made of layers of thin dough known as phyllo, butter, and finely chopped nuts, baklava is sweetened with syrup or honey, creating an unforgettable treat.

This delectable dessert is often cut into diamond or square shapes and can be found in numerous sweets shops throughout Ankara. The combination of crunchy textures and sweet syrup makes every bite heavenly. It’s not just a dessert but a culinary experience that reflects Turkish hospitality.

Pro Tip: Pair baklava with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience!

Where to eat: For the best baklava, make sure to visit Havuzlu Baklava or Güllüoğlu, both famous for their rich, flavorful offerings.

Ankara street food abounds with flavors that reflect the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From savory dishes to sweet treats, the local cuisine is an adventure awaiting every food enthusiast. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in these culinary delights, and share your favorite street food experiences with fellow travelers as you explore Ankara!

Frequently Asked Questions