What Food To Try in Konya and Food Prices

Kumpir - Baked Potato (stuffed with goodies) - A large baked potato filled with a variety of toppings like butter, cheese, and local herbs. You’ll often find locals enjoying this as a casual street meal after a long day, ideally at the park.

Etli Ekmek - Meat Flatbread - This is a long, thin dough topped with minced lamb and spices, often baked in a wood-fired oven for that perfect crust. It’s a favorite for lunch, typically enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere with friends or family at local eateries.

Yufka Kebap - Wrap Kebab - Made with spiced lamb or chicken wrapped in thin flatbread and served with yogurt and pickles. Locals usually grab this as a quick dinner option on busy weekdays, often ordering it to share over some lively conversation.

Mevlana Kebap - Konya Special Kebab - A unique preparation of marinated meat cooked on skewers, served with thin lavash bread and grilled vegetables. Traditionally consumed during festive gatherings, it symbolizes the love for communal eating—everyone shares from the same plate.

Birişk - Eggplant Sandwich - A surprising combination of grilled eggplant, tomatoes, and spices stuffed into bread, providing a satisfying vegetarian meal. Locals often grab this health-conscious street food during summer, appreciating its juicy freshness.

Sac Tava - Frying Pan Dish - This is a seasonal dish featuring meat and vegetables cooked in a large frying pan, often made with what's fresh from local markets. Made for gatherings, this dish captures the essence of community cooking, reflecting the joy of seasonal dining.

Simit - Bread Rings - Although common all over Turkey, in Konya, they are sometimes paired with savory spreads like tahini or spicy sauces, elevating a simple snack to a tasty meal. Early mornings are perfect for this, enjoyed with a side of traditional breakfast items, often while chatting with friendly vendors.

Çay - Çay (strong black tea) - Dark, robust tea brewed and served in small tulip-shaped glasses, typically accompanied by sugar cubes. Locals savor this at all times of the day, especially during morning gatherings or afternoon breaks with friends, often poured from a traditional samovar.

Şalgam - Şalgam suyu (fermented turnip juice) - A tangy and salty drink made from fermented turnips and diluted with water, often spiced with a hint of chili pepper. This refreshing beverage is popular during mealtime, particularly with kebabs, and is usually found in street vendors' stalls.

Rakı - Rakı (anise-flavored spirit) - A strong, anise-flavored alcoholic beverage that turns milky white when mixed with water. It's commonly enjoyed during special meals or celebrations, often accompanied by a meze platter for an authentic experience.

Baklava - Baklava (layered pastry dessert) - Thin layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey syrup, yielding a sticky and flaky texture. This dessert is frequently served during festive occasions like weddings, best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Dondurma - Dondurma (traditional ice cream) - A stretchy, chewy ice cream made from milk, salep, and sugar, often served with a playful twist from street vendors who tease customers before handing it over. Best enjoyed during the warm summer months, it’s a popular treat, especially in busy squares.

By the way, don’t be surprised if you see Turkish delight served with tea—it's a lovely way to sweeten up your afternoon!