Rediscover the Flavors of Turkish Cuisine: 12 Must-Try Dishes in Antakya, Hatay
Antakya, a city in the border province of Hatay, is a place where religions and cultures blend seamlessly. Influenced by 13 ancient civilizations, this city has a rich history. Once held by Akkadians, Hittites, Assyrians, Persians, Seleucids, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, Seljuks, Crusaders, Mamluks, Ottomans, and even the French, Hatay became a part of Türkiye in 1939.Visitors are drawn to Antakya for its culinary delights, but stay for its cultural richness and stunning mosaics. Although sometimes overshadowed by neighboring Adana’s famous kebabs and Gaziantep’s status as Türkiye's culinary capital, Antakya boasts a unique food culture that combines Middle Eastern, Anatolian, and Mediterranean influences.The city's natural surroundings also contribute to its culinary success. Thyme-scented mountains, fresh breezes along the Mediterranean coast, and plains covered with citrus, olive, fig groves, and vineyards are just the beginning. Thanks to its mild climate, Antakya’s rich flora yields abundant spices and aromatic herbs. With over 600 dishes in its repertoire, the Antakya kitchen offers a feast for any visitor. Here are some of the essentials to try 👇