Turkish cooking spans meze tables meant to last hours, charcoal kebabs cut to order, and modern Anatolian kitchens reworking village recipes with restaurant technique.
In Ankara the Turkish list is led by Fige Restaurant in Çankaya (Acclaimed local fine dining, 700-1200 TRY / 20-40 USD per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Karpic Restaurant at 600-1000 TRY / 20-35 USD is the value pick.
- 1.
Fige Restaurant
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Turkish · Çankaya · 700-1200 TRY / 20-40 USD
Fige offers a contemporary interpretation of Turkish cuisine within a stylish, art-filled garden setting. The menu features creative dishes using seasonal ingredients, blending traditional Anatolian flavors with modern European influences. It's a popular choice for both special occasions and relaxed, upscale dining, known for its pleasant ambiance and quality ingredients.
Order: Lamb Shank, Ottoman-style Mezze Platter
- 2.
Karpic Restaurant
Acclaimed local fine diningTraditional Turkish · Çayyolu · 600-1000 TRY / 20-35 USD
Karpic offers a refined take on traditional Turkish cuisine, emphasizing regional specialties and classic recipes executed with precision. The interior is warm and inviting, evoking a sense of historical Anatolian hospitality. It's renowned for its expertly prepared kebabs, rich stews, and a wide array of delicious mezze, reflecting Türkiye's diverse culinary heritage.
Order: Testi Kebab (Pottery Kebab), Ali Nazik
Booking a Turkish table in Ankara
- · For top restaurants like Trilye or Fige, booking a few days to a week in advance is recommended, especially for weekend evenings, to secure preferred seating.
- · Most fine-dining establishments in Ankara do not require a deposit for standard reservations, but large groups or special events might be an exception; inquire when booking.
- · Some restaurants offer more affordable lunch menus, which can be an excellent way to experience their cuisine at a lower price point and often without a reservation.
- · While Ankara's dining scene is generally forgiving, it's courteous to inform the restaurant promptly if you need to cancel or change your reservation to avoid potential no-show issues.
And the local dishes in Ankara
Testi Kebabı
A specialty from Anatolia, this kebab involves meat (usually beef or lamb) and vegetables slow-cooked in a sealed clay pot. The pot is dramatically cracked open tableside, releasing aromatic steam and tender ingredients. Find it in traditional restaurants around the Citadel for an authentic experience.
Adana Kebabı
Spicy minced lamb hand-kneaded with red pepper flakes and tail fat, then grilled on a wide skewer. Served with lavash bread, grilled tomatoes, peppers, and onions, it’s a staple of Turkish cuisine. Peçenek Döner is renowned for its quality kebabs and a must-try for meat lovers.
Mantı
Small, delicate Turkish dumplings typically filled with seasoned ground meat, boiled or steamed, and served with a garlic-yogurt sauce, melted butter infused with red pepper, and often dried mint. Ziyafet Mantı is a popular spot in Ankara known for its delicious, authentic mantı variations.
İskender Kebabı
Thin slices of döner kebab meat laid over pieces of pita bread, drenched in hot tomato sauce, and topped with melted butter and a dollop of yogurt. It’s a rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying dish, perfect for a hearty meal. Bursa Hacıbey Kebabçısı is a local favorite.
Other cuisines in Ankara
Seven days in Ankara
Pair these Turkish tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Ankara travel guide