Hatay, the southernmost region of Turkey, is a fusion of cultures and tastes. This age-old area, formerly called Antioch, has a lengthy past spanning millennia. Its prime spot at the intersection of civilizations has molded its one-of-a-kind character.

The area's varied terrain includes the Nur Mountains, the Orontes River, and a Mediterranean shoreline. Hatay's mixed heritage shows in its buildings, with old churches, mosques, and Roman ruins scattered across the region.

• Hatay's food combines Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Anatolian tastes
• The area is famous for its distinctive tray kebab and künefe sweet
• Hatay's varied history shapes its eclectic food scene

Why is Hatay's food so good

Hatay's cooking reflects its varied cultural impacts. The area's food mixes Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Anatolian tastes, creating a unique eating experience that sets it apart from other Turkish cities.

A standout feature of Hatay's cooking is its use of spices and herbs. The area is known for its zahtar, a spice mix made from wild thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. This fragrant blend is used in many dishes and is often eaten with bread and olive oil as a starter.

Another key item in Hatay's cooking is pomegranate. The sour fruit is used to make nar ekşisi, a syrup that adds a tangy taste to salads and meat dishes. It's a common item in many local kitchens and eateries.

What to eat in Hatay

When you visit Hatay, there are several dishes you should definitely try. Here are some local favorites:

1. Tepsi Kebabı: This is Hatay's well-known tray kebab. It's made with ground meat, peppers, tomatoes, and spices, all cooked together in a large tray. The result is a juicy, tasty kebab that's great for sharing.
2. Künefe: No trip to Hatay is complete without tasting this sweet treat. It's made with shredded phyllo dough, filled with unsalted cheese, and soaked in syrup. The dessert is then topped with ground pistachios for extra crunch.
3. Oruk: These are bulgur and meat croquettes, similar to kibbeh. They're crispy outside and soft inside, often served as a starter or snack.
4. Humus: While hummus is common throughout the Middle East, Hatay's version is especially creamy and flavorful.
5. Biberli Ekmek: This is a flatbread topped with a spicy red pepper paste. It's a popular street food and makes for a great quick bite.

Good places to eat in Hatay

Hatay has many great places to eat, from street food stalls to fancy restaurants. Here are a few suggestions:

• Sultan Sofrası: This restaurant is known for its traditional Hatay cooking. Make sure to try their künefe!
• Anadolu Restaurant: A great place to taste tepsi kebabı and other local specialties.
• Kırık Minare: Located in an old church, this restaurant offers a unique eating experience along with tasty food.

For street food, go to the old bazaar in Antakya. You'll find plenty of stalls selling biberli ekmek, oruk, and other local snacks.

A food day in Hatay

Here's what a typical day of eating might look like in Hatay:

Morning meal: Begin with a traditional Turkish breakfast, including olives, cheese, eggs, and bread with zahtar.
Midday meal: Try tepsi kebabı at a local restaurant.
Afternoon snack: Get some biberli ekmek from a street vendor.
Evening meal: Enjoy a variety of mezze dishes, followed by künefe for dessert.

Food gifts to take home

Hatay is a great place to buy unique food gifts. Here are some items to think about taking home:

• Zahtar spice blend
• Pomegranate syrup
• Local olive oil
• Dried fruits and nuts
• Hatay pepper paste

These items can be found in local markets and shops throughout the city. The old bazaar in Antakya is a great place to start your gift shopping.

More than food: Other things to see in Hatay

While food is a big draw, Hatay has plenty of other sights worth seeing:

• Hatay Archaeological Museum: Home to one of the world's largest mosaic collections.
• Church of St. Peter: One of the oldest Christian churches in the world.
• Titus Tunnel: An ancient Roman engineering feat.
• Long Bazaar: A great place to shop for local goods and gifts.

These sights give a glimpse into Hatay's rich history and culture. They're perfect for visiting between meals!

Advice for food fans visiting Hatay

1. Try to visit during the Hatay Gastronomy Festival if you can. It's a great way to taste a wide variety of local dishes.
2. Don't shy away from street food. Some of the best local specialties can be found at street stalls.
3. Learn a few basic Turkish phrases. Locals like it when you try, and it can help you read menus more easily.
4. Be ready to try new tastes. Hatay's cooking might be different from what you know, but that's part of the fun!
5. Think about taking a cooking class to learn how to make some of the local dishes yourself.

FAQs

When should food fans visit Hatay?

The best time for food fans to visit Hatay is during spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). The weather is nice, and many local ingredients are in season. If possible, try to plan your visit during the Hatay Gastronomy Festival, which usually happens in October.

Can vegetarians enjoy Hatay's food?

While meat dishes are popular in Hatay, there are many options for vegetarians. Many mezze dishes are vegetarian-friendly, and you can find vegetable-based main courses too. Be sure to try dishes like humus, muhammara (a red pepper and walnut dip), and zeytinyağlı dishes (vegetables cooked in olive oil).

Is the food in Hatay very spicy?

Hatay's food can be quite spicy compared to other parts of Turkey. However, the amount of spice can usually be changed if you ask. If you don't like spicy food, it's a good idea to ask about the spice level before you order.