Cappadocia, a region known for its fairy-tale landscapes and hot air balloons, is also a haven for food lovers. From cave restaurants to traditional Turkish eateries, the culinary scene here is as diverse as its geography. This guide will take you through the must-visit restaurants in Cappadocia, offering insights into their ambiance, food type, and what dishes to order.
Topdeck Cave Restaurant, Goreme
- Location: Hafız Abdullah Efendi Sk. No 15, Göreme.
- Price: Moderate ($8-10 USD an entree).
- Ambiance: Intimate cave setting with traditional Turkish seating.
- Food Type: Traditional Turkish.
- What to Order: Sarma beyti kebab, testi kebab, mücver.
Nestled in the heart of Goreme, Topdeck Cave Restaurant provides a dining experience that’s as authentic as it gets. The restaurant, set within a natural cave, exudes a cozy and intimate ambiance, making it the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in an extraordinary setting. The menu here changes daily, based on what’s fresh and available locally, ensuring each visit offers a new culinary adventure. The Topdeck Cave Restaurant is particularly famous for its sarma beyti kebab and testi kebab, dishes that are a testament to the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine. The intimate setting, combined with the warmth of the staff, makes dining here feel like a meal among family.
Visiting Topdeck Cave is a must for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the culinary traditions of Cappadocia while enjoying the unique experience of cave dining. The restaurant’s limited seating adds to its exclusivity, so making a reservation is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic dinner or a family wanting to experience traditional Turkish hospitality, Topdeck Cave Restaurant promises an evening filled with delicious food, warm ambiance, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Dibek Restaurant, Goreme
- Location: Belediye Cad. Hakkı Paşa Meydanı, Göreme.
- Price: Moderate ($7 per starter, $8-$28 per main).
- Ambiance: Historic building with traditional Turkish floor seating.
- Food Type: Traditional Turkish, specializing in Testi Kebab.
- What to Order: Testi kebab, mercimek corba, guveç.
- Why Visit: To enjoy the best Testi Kebab in a 475-year-old building, offering a truly local dining experience.
Dibek Restaurant stands as a pillar in Goreme’s culinary landscape, offering a journey back in time with its setting in a 475-year-old building. This restaurant is celebrated for its dedication to preserving the traditional cooking methods of Cappadocia, with the Testi Kebab being its crowning glory. The dish, requiring hours of slow cooking in a clay pot, is a culinary spectacle, served with a flourish as the pot is cracked open right at your table. Dibek’s traditional Turkish seating, where guests can dine on cushions spread across the floor, enhances the authentic experience, inviting diners to immerse themselves fully in the local culture.
The charm of Dibek Restaurant lies not just in its historic ambiance or its mouth-watering dishes but also in its commitment to offering a genuine slice of Cappadocian life. The restaurant’s menu, though not extensive, is carefully curated to showcase the best of local cuisine, using fresh, seasonal ingredients that speak to the region’s agricultural bounty. For travelers seeking an authentic dining experience that connects them to the heart of Cappadocian culture, Dibek Restaurant is an unmissable destination. Its popularity with both locals and tourists alike is a testament to the quality of its food and the warmth of its hospitality, making it essential to book ahead to secure a spot in this historic gem.
Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant & Art Gallery
- Location: Isali Mah, İçeridere Sk. No:21/A, Göreme.
- Price: Moderate ($6-$8 per starter, $7-$25 per main).
- Ambiance: Art gallery and restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
- Food Type: Organic meals with vegetarian options.
- What to Order: Sirloin steak, vegetable lasagne, Turkish breakfast.
- Why Visit: For a large and varied menu in an art-filled setting, perfect for vegetarians and art lovers alike.
Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant & Art Gallery offers a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Situated in the vibrant town of Göreme, this establishment doubles as an art gallery, showcasing the work of local artists alongside its culinary offerings. The restaurant’s menu is a celebration of organic and locally sourced ingredients, with a wide array of dishes that cater to vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. The ambiance of Pumpkin is one of its most compelling features, combining the rustic charm of Cappadocia with a contemporary flair for an atmosphere that’s both inviting and inspiring.
Dining at Pumpkin Göreme is an experience that extends beyond the meal itself. The art-adorned walls provide a backdrop that stimulates conversation and appreciation for Cappadocia’s artistic heritage. The restaurant’s commitment to organic meals means that every dish served is not only delicious but also a testament to the region’s rich agricultural landscape. Whether you’re stopping by for a leisurely lunch or a dinner that doubles as an art viewing, Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant & Art Gallery stands out as a destination that nourishes both body and soul.
Seyyah Han, Avanos
- Location: 2.küme mahallesi Maltepe Sokağı, Avanos.
- Price: Moderate ($8 per starter, $8-$20 per main).
- Ambiance: Rustic with live entertainment and stunning views.
- Food Type: Traditional Turkish with live music.
- What to Order: Lamb shish, Sultan’s kebab, baklava.
- Why Visit: For a lively dining experience with music and views, offering a mix of great food and entertainment.
Seyyah Han, located in the picturesque town of Avanos, is a dining destination that combines breathtaking views with a lively atmosphere. Known for its entertainment, including live bands that perform on select evenings, Seyyah Han offers guests more than just a meal; it provides an experience. The restaurant’s terrace offers panoramic views of the Cavusin fairy chimneys and, on clear days, extends to the Red and Rose valleys, making it an ideal spot for those looking to dine with a view. The menu at Seyyah Han features hearty Cappadocia Turkish cuisine, prepared with a contemporary twist, ensuring that there’s something to satisfy every palate.
What sets Seyyah Han apart is its ability to blend a rustic, yet contemporary dining experience with the natural beauty of Cappadocia. The ambiance, coupled with the quality of the food and the added bonus of live entertainment, makes it a must-visit for anyone looking for an evening that’s as memorable for the setting as it is for the cuisine. Whether you’re seated indoors or on the terrace, Seyyah Han promises an evening of delicious food, enchanting views, and lively entertainment, capturing the essence of Cappadocia’s vibrant culture.
Lagarto Restaurant, Urgup
- Location: Dereler, Dereler Sk. No:49, Ürgüp.
- Price: Moderate to high ($7-$9 per starter, $9-$24 per main).
- Ambiance: Romantic stone courtyard with panoramic views.
- Food Type: Traditional Turkish with a modern twist.
- What to Order: Mamzara, mantı, testi kebab.
- Why Visit: For a romantic evening with breathtaking views, offering a magical atmosphere and exquisite dishes.
For those seeking a romantic dining experience in Cappadocia, Lagarto Restaurant in Urgup offers the perfect setting. Perched atop a hill, Lagarto boasts stunning views over the rooftops of Urgup and the expansive Cappadocian landscape beyond. The restaurant’s ambiance, with its indoor seating in a beautifully furnished cave and a rooftop terrace, offers versatility whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a meal under the stars. The menu at Lagarto is a testament to the culinary diversity of the region, featuring a sumptuous mezze selection that’s perfect for sharing, making it an ideal choice for couples.
Dining at Lagarto is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. The breathtaking views, especially at sunset, set the stage for a romantic evening that’s complemented by the restaurant’s delectable offerings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy a beautiful evening with your partner, Lagarto Restaurant provides a setting that’s as memorable as the cuisine. The intimate atmosphere, combined with the stunning backdrop of Urgup, makes Lagarto a standout choice for those looking to indulge in the beauty and flavors of Cappadocia.
Dreamspot Restaurant, Near Uchisar
- Location: Strategically positioned to overlook Uchisar Castle
- Price: Moderate to high, with starters around $10-$15, mains from $20-$30, and desserts approximately $10.
- Ambiance: Offers a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, with an outdoor terrace that provides panoramic views of Cappadocia’s landscapes and a tastefully decorated interior that combines traditional and modern design elements.
- Food Type: A contemporary take on traditional Turkish cuisine
- What to Order: breakfast
- Why Visit: Dreamspot Restaurant is the ideal destination for those looking to enjoy a meal with a view.
Dreamspot Restaurant is celebrated not only for its stunning location but also for its exquisite menu that marries traditional Turkish flavors with modern culinary techniques. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish reflects the rich agricultural heritage of the region. From succulent grills and savory kebabs to innovative vegetarian dishes, the menu caters to a wide array of tastes and preferences. Dreamspot is particularly renowned for its breakfast spread, which features a lavish assortment of local cheeses, olives, honey, and freshly baked bread, providing the perfect start to a day of adventure in Cappadocia.
Visiting Dreamspot Restaurant is an opportunity to indulge in the flavors of Cappadocia while soaking in some of the most iconic views the region has to offer. Whether you’re there for a leisurely meal or to celebrate a special occasion, the restaurant’s ambiance, coupled with its attentive service, ensures a memorable dining experience. As Dreamspot tends to attract both locals and tourists alike, securing a reservation, especially for terrace seating at sunset, is highly recommended. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and culinary delights of Cappadocia, Dreamspot Restaurant near Uchisar is an unparalleled choice.
