Top 5 Sanliurfa Food: A Tasty Guide

Sanliurfa, often just called Urfa, in Turkey, is really famous for its rich history, and that’s cool, but you, like your mouth, really want to think about the food. You know, that’s something that I’ve realized. What can you expect when you get here? So, let’s take a stroll and get to know the five foods you really should try when visiting this amazing city. Prepare your stomach for this tasty stuff, right?

1. Urfa Kebab: The King of Kebabs

Urfa Kebab is kind of the dish that screams “Sanliurfa.” Is that so, even? That kebab is made, really, from ground lamb, and I would argue, with just a bit of tail fat to, you know, kick things up a bit, too. It’s not quite as fiery as its Adana counterpart; so you get to taste the, almost, savory flavor of the lamb more clearly. People that know good food know this is true.

You’ll usually, very often see it served with grilled tomatoes, peppers, and a mountain of fluffy rice or warm, toasty lavash bread. Is that the coolest sight? When you get to try it from a local restaurant, where they, too it’s almost, know the real deal, you know, the flavor will honestly stick with you long after you’ve left Urfa. We really want that for you.

You see, you will find tons of places serving Urfa Kebab. I think you would agree. Try these top picks:

Cigerci Aziz Usta: That place is popular among locals, really known for its juicy and tender kebabs. I really appreciate that place.
Dedecan Ocakbasi: This spot will bring you in with a cozy setting and perfect kebab made, actually, on an open grill. How cool is that?
Kardesler Kebap Salonu: Really straightforward, you see, but the flavor and local vibe are what makes it stand out, actually. And those are really the vibes that someone likes.

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Find the best kebab in town)

2. Cig Kofte: A Spicy Affair (But Cooked!)

Originally, Cig Kofte was made with raw meat, yet these days, rules said that had to change; so don’t let the name scare you off. You know that. You now get a vegetarian version that relies on really fine bulgur wheat. And they knead that with tomato and pepper paste, plus a mix of spices that, still, bring the heat.

This should almost always be served cold and you wrap it up in a crisp lettuce leaf, squeeze on some lemon, and, I think you’ll find, pop the whole thing in your mouth, so, too it’s almost. It’s honestly a burst of flavors and textures; that’s true, really. In my opinion, every bite is just, really, addictive. Be aware.

Craving a taste? Really. Visit these joints:

Halil Usta Cig Kofte: People know this small shop because it just, literally, specializes in Cig Kofte and, actually, it’s just done incredibly. So, right on?
Cigkofteci Sait: That shop has a, arguably, milder version, actually. I think you will like this if you’re not that in to super spicy things.
Oz Urfali Cig Kofteci: That place is famous for its traditional methods and locally-sourced ingredients, like your grandpa makes it. You’d expect that.

Read our full review: Vegetarian Cig Kofte Spots

3. Borani: A Cool Yogurt Dish

If you need something, still, refreshing to, just a little, cut the spice, so you want to order Borani, really. It’s this yogurt-based salad, typically, featuring spinach or other greens. This place usually, though, adds chickpeas and a drizzle of olive oil for extra heartiness, almost, you could say. The result is very nice and creamy.

I’d say this dish is perfect as a side to kebabs or, seemingly, as a light lunch all by itself. As you should, just think of it as a way to recharge before exploring Urfa’s historical sites, really.

So, looking for the spot for a good Borani fix? Then explore these:

Kaburgaci Yasar Usta: Actually, know this spot because it serves this as a side dish and compliments the ribs that it offers. How neat is that?
Ibrahim Tatlises Kebap Salonu: That restaurant really serves Borani with a, arguably, more modern touch, actually. But very good.
local cafes: Most, sometimes, family-run restaurants have their version of this easy, really nice, cooling dish; as always. That’s great.

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Cool Borani places here)

4. Semsek: A Savory Pastry

Semsek is actually one of those foods you can grab when you want something, clearly, easy but very satisfying. You may find this popular pastry filled with meat, cheese, or potatoes, sealed and fried, too. That snack, yet, can really warm you up, as it can easily be found at street vendors. Really, that simple?

A lot of locals love this stuff for breakfast or, even, as a quick lunch when, possibly, short on time. You will thank yourself for trying it, because it’s kind of, almost, the perfect way to see Turkish street food. I, really, urge you to.

Where should you look for that perfect Semsek? Check these places:

Street Vendors near Balikligol: It seems like you will, very, likely find them freshly made and, too, still, warm. What would be better?
Local Bakeries: Lots of local places that will, might be, prepare batches in the morning, too. Who could complain?
Semsek Evleri: Places that are known for them, in case the streets aren’t producing.

Read our full review: Find a spot for tasty Semsek!

5. Mırra: Coffee That Tells a Story

Mırra is, basically, more than coffee; is that, you know, more clear? It’s, like your grandma might tell you, a whole tradition. We’re talking brewing the super strong coffee multiple times. And they use this, almost, specialized pot and pour it into tiny, handle-less cups. Oh my gosh, tiny.

They typically share cups and the person who receives has to, at least, take a sip, right? Or, so I’ve heard, is thought of, you know, as impolite, potentially. That drink really isn’t just coffee, but more, usually, it’s about community, as a matter of fact. You’ll almost always see people drink it after big meals or, sometimes, during important gatherings.

You know, to, actually, try this coffee, go to these joints, though I think you’ll have fun if you don’t either way:

Historical Cafes: Basically, around the old city. These joints typically maintain traditional brewing methods, like you like, of course.
Guesthouses: Some guesthouses will offer Mırra, usually, to welcome guests and allow a good bit of local love. Isn’t that sweet?
Family Homes: Now, if you are fortunate to make friends, expect someone to serve this, actually, which really helps to appreciate that rich culture. Right on, you know.

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now ( Drink and experience the history)

Read our full review: Best Sanliurfa Dishes