On one hand, there are the freshest fish that arrive at the stalls early in the morning, and on the other, pastries made with recipes that have remained unchanged for years... Eating in Sinop is not just about satisfying your hunger; it's one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the city's tranquil spirit, the scent of the sea, and the local way of life. In this cuisine, where walnut, dough-based, and cornmeal recipes are particularly prominent, every bite tastes a little like home.
What to Eat in Sinop List
If you want to explore Sinop not only for sightseeing but also for its culinary delights, the dishes on this list will make your trip even more unforgettable. Ready to discover Sinop's famous cuisine, let's start with one of the first stops…Sinop Dumplings
Sinop mantı, the most well-known delicacy of Sinop cuisine, differs from classic mantı both in appearance and presentation. Prepared in large pieces, this mantı is quite filling with its generous minced meat filling. The mantı, placed inside thin dough, are boiled and then served with garlic yogurt.
The most important detail that makes Sinop mantı (dumplings) special is that instead of butter sauce, ground walnuts are added on top. Thanks to the harmony of yogurt, meat, and walnuts, a light yet distinctive taste emerges. If you ever find yourself in Sinop, you absolutely must try this regional delicacy.
Nokul
Nokul, one of the most beloved pastries of Sinop cuisine, is especially indispensable for tea time and guest meals. Thinly rolled dough is usually filled with walnuts, raisins, and cinnamon; it is then rolled up, sliced, and baked in the oven.
Besides the sweet version, savory nokul varieties prepared with cheese or minced meat are also quite common. This traditional delicacy, with its slightly crispy exterior and soft interior, beautifully reflects the home-style cuisine of Sinop. It is one of the most enjoyable answers to the question of what to eat in Sinop.
Keşkek
Keşkek, one of the oldest and most traditional dishes of Sinop cuisine, is frequently prepared, especially at weddings, holidays, and special occasions. Made by cooking and mixing crushed wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb) for hours, this dish stands out with its thick consistency and nutritious properties.
With its flavor completed by the butter drizzled over it, keşkek, with its simple yet satisfying taste, is one of the dishes that best reflects Sinop's culinary culture, which loves to share.
Folding
Katlama, a beloved pastry from Sinop cuisine, is frequently found at breakfast and tea times. The dough is rolled out very thinly, layered with oil, and cooked on a griddle or pan. With its slightly crispy exterior and soft interior, it's quite delicious.
Katlama, usually served with cheese, butter, or honey, is a practical yet filling dish and one of the warmest, most homemade answers to the question of what to eat in Sinop.
Stuffed Pan
One of the dishes reflecting Sinop cuisine's strong connection to the sea is içli tava (stuffed pan-fried fish). Prepared with small fish like anchovies or whiting, this dish is cooked in a pan after being mixed with plenty of onions and spices. It has a crispy exterior and a soft, juicy interior.
Especially common during the fishing season, içli tava (stuffed pan-fried meat) is a must-try dish in Sinop for those who want to sample seafood with a regional flavor.
Islam
Islama, one of the simple yet delicious dishes of Sinop cuisine, is a traditional dish usually prepared with meat or chicken broth and made using stale bread. The bread is soaked in hot meat broth and served with shredded meat or chicken added on top.
With its filling and nutritious nature, islama is especially preferred during the winter months and is one of the flavors that best reflects the home cooking culture of Sinop.
Corn Soup
Corn soup, an indispensable part of Black Sea cuisine, is also frequently found on Sinop tables. Prepared with corn grits, dried beans, and sometimes greens, this soup is a lifesaver, especially on cold days, thanks to its nutritious and filling nature.
With its rich and filling flavor, corn soup has secured a firm place in Sinop's regional cuisine, both on everyday tables and in traditional food lists.
Unleavened Dessert
One of the traditional desserts unique to Sinop, hamursuz tatlısı (unleavened dessert), is prepared without dough, as its name suggests. Made by combining finely ground walnuts, sugar, and eggs, this dessert is baked in the oven before serving.
Distinguished by its light yet intensely walnut-flavored texture, this unleavened pastry is one of the most unique and must-try delicacies of Sinop cuisine, especially for those seeking a dessert after a meal.
Rice Pilaf with Chestnuts
In Sinop cuisine, chestnut-stuffed rice pilaf, a traditional dish that graces special occasion tables, stands out with its rich ingredients. Rice is prepared with chestnuts, currants, and onions, and seasoned with mild spices.
Served both as a side dish and on its own, this rice dish, with its balanced blend of sweet and savory flavors, is one of the most special recipes reflecting Sinop's rich culinary culture.