Must-Try Turkish Foods for Students on a Budget
1. Kebabs (Köfte & Döner)
Kebabs are perhaps the most iconic aspect of Turkish street food, showcasing a variety of flavors in one simple dish.
Köfte
Köfte, or Turkish meatballs, are seasoned and grilled meatballs that are often served with flatbread, rice, or salad.
Döner
Döner kebab is a delicious option consisting of thinly sliced seasoned meat (typically beef or chicken) that is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It’s commonly served in a wrap or sandwich form, making it a convenient meal for students on the go. Priced affordably at street stalls, kebabs are an easy and filling choice.
Where to Find: Street vendors and lokantas (local eateries) throughout Turkiye.
2. Pide and Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)
Known as Turkish pizza, both pide and lahmacun are staple comfort foods perfect for students looking for hearty meals.
Pide
Pide has a boat-shaped flatbread that serves as its base, filled with cheese, vegetables, and meats. Each bite is a blend of textures and flavors that satisfy hunger.
Lahmacun
Lahmacun features a thin round bread topped with spiced ground meat, onions, and herbs, and is often served without cheese. This makes lahmacun a lighter but equally delicious alternative.
Where to Find: Bakery shops and local restaurants make these tasty options easily accessible and budget-friendly. A meal of either pide or lahmacun typically costs less than a meal in a mid-range restaurant.
3. Simit
Simit is a quintessential Turkish street food. These sesame-encrusted bread rings are similar to bagels and are popular for breakfast or as snacks.
Characteristics
Simit is lightly crispy on the outside and soft inside, making it ideal for pairing with tea or yogurt. Students can often grab a simit from street vendors, making it an easy on-the-go option.
Where to Find: Street vendors and bakeries, where they are sold at a very low price, generally around just a couple of liras.
4. Kumpir (Stuffed Baked Potato)
Kumpir is a filling and customizable option perfect for students needing substantial meals.
Characteristics
A large baked potato is fluffed and stuffed with a variety of toppings ranging from cheese and sausages to olives and pickles. The beauty of kumpir is its customizability, allowing students to select their preferred fillings. While it’s typically priced higher than some of the other options, its size and variety make it a worthwhile investment for a student budget.
Where to Find: Kiosks and fast-food stalls across major cities are known for offering delicious kumpir.
5. Meze (Small Plates)
Meze are small plates of appetizers, perfect for sharing or sampling a variety of dishes.
Characteristics
Popular meze options include hummus, lentil salad, stuffed grape leaves, and various eggplant dishes. This sharing style allows students to enjoy multiple flavors without consuming too much budget.
Where to Find: Local restaurants and cafes where these dishes are often served at affordable prices.
Quick Comparison Table
| Dish | Description | Typical Price Point | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kebabs | Grilled meatballs or sliced meat wraps | Low | Street stalls, lokantas |
| Pide/Lahmacun | Turkish pizza with various toppings | Low | Bakeries, restaurants |
| Simit | Sesame bread ring (bagel-like) | Very low | Street vendors |
| Kumpir | Baked potato with mixed toppings | Low to moderate | Kiosks, food stalls |
| Meze | Assorted small plates (e.g., hummus) | Low | Restaurants, cafes |
Conclusion
Turkish food culture is rich and diverse, offering a blend of hearty, flavorful, and nutritious options that fit perfectly within a student’s budget. Whether grabbing a quick simit on the way to class, enjoying a vibrant pide, or sharing a selection of meze with friends, the culinary delights of Turkiye provide an exquisite dining experience.
For international students considering their study options, Study in Turkiye helps connect students with leading universities like Aydin University and Antalya Bilim University, and offers insights into all aspects of student life, including food options, cultural experiences, and affordable living.
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