Restaurants in Ankara

La Gioia

La Gioia attracts a see-and-be-seen crowd of young professionals with its contemporary European cafe-style setting. The menu is modern Mediterranean with a particular focus on Italian influences. It’s also a good place to stop off for a coffee when you’re out and about in Kavaklıdere.

Zenger Paşa Konağı

Big on traditional ambience, Zenger Paşa Konağı is housed in a big old restored Turkish house that dates to 1721. Rooms are chock-a-block full of textiles, old photos and Ottoman antiques, there are panoramic views across Ulus from the terrace, and the menu is typically Turkish.

Kolyoz

Ankara diners really like their seafood and this is one of the best fish restaurants in town. As well as a wide range of typical grilled fish dishes, you can sample seafood Turkish-style with options such as vine leaves stuffed with sardines and süttebalık (fish casserole, slow-cooked in milk).

Hacı Arifbey

Traditional Turkish kebab dishes are the name of the game here, served by friendly, suited wait staff. It’s popular with both locals and tourists for its perfectly cooked meat, fresh salads and generous portions of typical Turkish dishes. This is a good place to try fıstıklıkebap (pistachio kebab).

Günaydın

Ankara’s most popular steakhouse retains its crown. This is the place to head to if you’re hankering for a rib eye or fillet, and portions are very generous so bring your appetite. They also do a big range of good burgers (some with a Turkish twist) if you’re after a lighter meal.

Hatipoğlu Konağı

Atop the Citadel walls, this imposing Turkish mansion offers warm service and is famous for its highly popular inexpensive fixed-price menu, but also offers plenty of à la carte. Grab a table in one of several dining rooms or enjoy views of the Cankaya hills from the pleasant open-air terrace.

Kınacızade Konağı

Exploring the citadel area and feeling peckish? This traditional Ottoman mansion with its creaky stairs and walls covered in old photos is an atmospheric choice. The menu is traditional Turkish with plenty of meze (starter plates, made for sharing) options. For a light lunch try their gözleme (stuffed flatbreads).

Kebap 49

Always bustling with local families who pack out the street side terrace, Kebap 49 dishes up a huge menu of Turkish favourites from pide (Turkish pizza) to an array of sizzling and tasty kebaps (kebabs). A good option if you’re looking for well-priced Turkish staples, with fast and friendly service.

Spice Curry House

Own by an Australian expat, Spice Curry House opened in 2006 and serves the best Indian/Pakistani/Sri Lankan and North African food in the city. A menu "follows the seasons" to ensure only the freshest ingredients, keeping prices down and re-invigorating dishes each and every month. Take away available.