Best Turkish Restaurants in Ankara
Curated guide featuring 6 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars
Ankara's Turkish restaurant scene is where tradition meets the heart of the nation's capital. Far from the tourist-trodden paths of Istanbul, this is where locals gather for authentic flavors that have been perfected over generations. Here, you'll find everything from beloved neighborhood lokantas serving home-style comfort food to elegant establishments showcasing refined Turkish cuisine. The city's dining culture is unpretentious yet deeply passionate, where a perfectly folded mantı dumpling or a masterfully grilled fish can spark genuine conversation and debate among diners who know exactly how things should taste.
We've curated six exceptional restaurants that consistently earn rave reviews from both Ankara residents and visitors alike. Each spot in this guide maintains an impressive rating of 4.5 stars or higher, with some beloved establishments backed by thousands of enthusiastic reviews. Whether you're craving delicate handmade dumplings, fresh seafood prepared with Mediterranean flair, or the kind of satisfying Turkish classics that make you understand why this cuisine has endured for centuries, these restaurants represent the very best of what Ankara has to offer. This is where you'll eat like a true Ankaralı.
Featured Restaurants
Site 2 Lokantası Abdurrahman Küçük Ovacık
This beloved Ankara gem has earned its stellar reputation among locals and travelers alike, with nearly 7,000 glowing reviews praising its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu options at wallet-friendly prices. The high rating speaks to consistently satisfying Turkish cuisine that hits the spot whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely meal. Given its popularity in the Keçiören district, try visiting during off-peak hours to snag a table without the wait, and don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff for their daily specials.
Trilye Restaurant
Trilye Restaurant has earned its stellar reputation among Ankara's upscale dining scene, with nearly 3,000 glowing reviews praising its refined atmosphere and quality cuisine. Travelers consistently rave about the exceptional service and sophisticated ambiance, making it a top choice for special occasions or an elevated dining experience in the Çankaya district. Given its premium pricing and popularity, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings when this local favorite fills up quickly.
MARTI RESTAURANT
Tucked away in Ankara's Kocatepe neighborhood, Marti Restaurant has earned an impressive 4.5-star rating from over a thousand diners who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and consistently satisfying meals. Travelers love this spot for delivering quality dining at reasonable prices, making it a reliable choice whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely dinner. With its strong local following, aim to visit during off-peak hours to snag a table without the wait.
Nükteli
Nükteli has earned its stellar reputation among Ankara locals and visitors alike, with nearly 900 glowing reviews praising this welcoming bar in the Çankaya district. The mid-range prices make it an accessible spot to experience Turkish bar culture and socialize over drinks and small plates in a lively atmosphere. Arrive early on weekends to snag a good spot, as this popular hangout fills up quickly with regulars who appreciate its consistently good service and convivial vibe.
Maharet Mantı Ankara & Kayseri Yağlaması
This beloved Ankara spot specializes in traditional Turkish mantı (dumplings) with both Ankara and Kayseri-style preparations, drawing locals and visitors alike to its Çankaya location. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 800 reviews, diners consistently praise the authentic flavors and generous portions at reasonable prices. Arrive early during lunch hours as this popular neighborhood gem fills up quickly with regulars who know quality Turkish comfort food when they taste it.
Nakia Restaurant
Nakia Restaurant has earned its stellar reputation among Ankara locals and visitors alike, with over 400 glowing reviews praising its diverse culinary offerings in the heart of Çankaya. The upscale dining experience justifies the premium pricing, with guests consistently highlighting the quality of dishes and welcoming atmosphere that makes any occasion feel special. Given its popularity and fine dining status, making a reservation ahead of time is highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings when this sought-after spot fills up quickly.
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