Diyarbakır... A city that captivates not only with its historical heritage but also with its cuisine. As you stroll through its streets, you'll be greeted by the aroma of spices, freshly baked bread, and delicacies cooked on embers. This ancient city reveals its culture and history not only in its stones but also in its cuisine. If you're planning a trip to Diyarbakır, exploring the culinary delights will be as unforgettable as seeing the sights.

What to Eat in Diyarbakır List

In this article, we'll explore the most distinctive parts of Diyarbakır's cuisine, from the city's famous kebabs and desserts to local breakfasts and street food. If you're ready, let's begin your culinary journey!

Stuffed Ribs


stuffed ribs diyarbakir

One of the most distinctive and sumptuous dishes of Diyarbakır cuisine, stuffed lamb ribs are meticulously prepared and stuffed with rice, ground meat, walnuts, and spices. A staple dish for both visual and flavor, this dish is especially popular at special occasions and receptions. Stuffed ribs offer a unique experience, enjoyed both in restaurants and in some local restaurants throughout the city.

Stuffed Mumbar


stuffed mumbar diyarbakir

Mumbar Dolma, a traditional Diyarbakır dish, is prepared by stuffing cleaned sheep intestines with rice, ground meat, onions, and spices. This filling and intensely flavorful dish is a must-try for those looking to experience the city's authentic cuisine. It's typically served with rice and yogurt.

Nardanaşı


pomegranate

Nardanaşı, a unique flavor characteristic of Diyarbakır cuisine, is a special dish typically prepared with a blend of bulgur and spices, with a filling enhanced with pomegranate molasses and local flavors. With its slightly sour and aromatic flavor, it can be served both as a main course and as an accompaniment to appetizers. It's a delicacy worth trying for those looking to experience the city's unique culinary culture.

Roasted Quince


roasted quince

Quince Kavurma, a unique flavor of Diyarbakır cuisine, is prepared by cooking diced lamb or beef with slices of quince, combined with local spices. This dish, which balances the flavor of the meat with a sweet quince flavor, is both visually appealing and delicious. It's a favorite at special occasions and traditional tables.

Stuffed Meatballs


Stuffed meatballs in Diyarbakir

One of Diyarbakır's most well-known and beloved delicacies, içli köfte (stuffed meatballs) is made by stuffing thin bulgur dough with ground meat, onion, and spices, shaping it, and frying or boiling it. Served both as an appetizer and as an accompaniment to a main course, this delicacy is a must-try classic for those looking to experience the city's traditional cuisine.

Enchanted


Meftune Diyarbakir

Meftune, a traditional dish from Diyarbakır cuisine, is a type of stew typically made with lamb or chicken, vegetables, and tomatoes. Pomegranate molasses or lemon juice is sometimes added for a slightly sour flavor. This filling and aromatic dish is a must-try for anyone looking to discover the city's unique flavors.

Veiled Rice


veiled rice

Duvaklı Pilav, a special and traditional dish of Diyarbakır cuisine, is a rich variety of pilaf prepared with rice, ground meat, dried fruit, and spices. Named after the careful covering of the pilaf, this dish is particularly popular at weddings and special occasions. Standing out for both its visual appeal and its delicious flavor, Duvaklı Pilav is a delicacy that reflects the city's cultural and culinary heritage.

Lebeniye Soup


Lebeniye soup Diyarbakir

Lebeniye, a traditional soup from Diyarbakır cuisine, is a nourishing and slightly sour soup made with yogurt, flour, chickpeas, and spices. It can be enjoyed both as a starter before a main course or as a satisfying meal on its own. For those looking to experience the city's unique flavors, Lebeniye Soup is a classic delicacy worth trying.

Eggplant Arrangement


Eggplant Arrangement Diyarbakir

Eggplant Dizme, a traditional Diyarbakır dish, is prepared by layering roasted eggplants with tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and spices and baking them in the oven. This light and aromatic dish is ideal for vegetable lovers and those looking to explore local flavors. It's typically served with yogurt or salad.

Hillyric


Hilloric Diyarbakir

A regional delicacy of Diyarbakır cuisine, Hıllorik is a simple yet satisfying dish, typically prepared with a mixture of bulgur, onion, spices, and ground meat and cooked on a griddle. As one of the city's authentic dishes, it's a favorite for breakfast or light meals. Both its flavor and preparation method make it an intriguing option for those seeking to experience Diyarbakır's traditional cuisine.

Cartlak Kebab (Liver Kebab)


Cartlak Kebab Diyarbakir

Cartlak Kebab, a staple of Diyarbakır cuisine, is prepared by skewering fresh lamb or beef liver and grilling it over embers. This dish, especially popular for breakfast and lunch, is served with thin lavash bread, onions, and sumac. Its flavor and practical presentation make it a must-try for those seeking to experience the city's authentic kebab culture.

Habenisk


habenisk

Habenisk, a regional delicacy of Diyarbakır cuisine, is a hearty dish typically prepared with wheat or bulgur, chickpeas, and spices. Its slightly sour flavor and nutritious content make it a favorite for both daily meals and special occasions. For those seeking to discover the city's authentic flavors, Habenisk is a staple on traditional tables.

Diyarbakir Bun with Mahlep


Diyarbakir bun with mahlep

One of Diyarbakır's most famous delicacies, the Diyarbakır Mahlep Çöreği (Diyarbakır Mahlep) is a soft and fragrant pastry made with flour, butter, sugar, and mahlep flavor. Often enjoyed with tea or for breakfast, this pastry, with its delicious flavor and unique aroma, is an ideal snack for those seeking to experience the city's traditional flavors.

Burma Kadayif


Burma kadayıf Diyarbakır

A staple of Diyarbakır's dessert culture, Burma Kadayıf is made by wrapping shredded wheat in butter and walnuts and sweetened with syrup. With its crispy texture and sweet syrupy flavor, this delightful dish is a must-try for any dessert lover in the city.

Revani


Revani Diyarbakir

Revani, a beloved dessert in Diyarbakır cuisine, is a light and fluffy cake made with semolina, eggs, and syrup. Thanks to the syrup, Revani offers a moist and aromatic flavor, making it a popular choice for tea time and special occasions. It offers a practical yet traditional Diyarbakır dessert experience.