Cappadocia is full of wonders above ground — hot air balloons, valleys, and fairy chimneys — but what many visitors don’t expect is how unforgettable the food and drink scene is here. Whether you're sipping wine as the sun sets over the valley or cracking open a pottery kebab in a family-run restaurant, the flavors of this region stay with you long after you leave.
Here’s a local guide to what to eat and drink in Cappadocia — from high-end fine dining to casual bites and cocktail spots you’ll want to return to every night.
Fine Dining with a View
For a romantic dinner or a special evening out, these are the top three restaurants we recommend for elegant dining with unforgettable views.
Nahita, located in Uçhisar inside the Argos hotel, brings refined Anatolian cuisine to the table. The setting is carved into stone with a warm interior design and a panoramic view of Pigeon Valley. The food is creative yet rooted in tradition — slow-cooked lamb, seasonal vegetables, and deep flavors you’ll remember.
Seki Restaurant is another Uçhisar favorite, known for its terrace, extensive wine selection, and balanced plates. Their duck, tenderloin, and artichoke starters are beautifully plated and perfectly cooked. Great for both couples and small groups.
Lil’a Restaurant at Museum Hotel is where local heritage meets haute cuisine. Their tasting menus explore ancient Anatolian recipes through a fine dining lens. You’ll dine surrounded by antiques and watch the sun set over the valleys — it’s not just a meal, it’s a full experience.
Authentic Local Food (Where We Eat)
If you want to try real Turkish food the way we eat it here, there are some gems you shouldn’t miss.
Gaziantepli Kebapçı Mustafa is a simple, local spot in Uçhisar where the kebabs are among the best in Cappadocia. No fancy design, no tourist gimmicks — just flavorful meat, fast service, and warm bread from the oven. The Adana, Meat and Chicken kebabs are excellent.
House of Memories in Uçhisar feels like a meal at a grandmother’s house. The interior is filled with old family photos, hand-woven textiles, and memories. Try their lentil soup, manti (Turkish ravioli), and stuffed grape leaves. The owners often greet guests personally, and the hospitality is as heartfelt as the food.
If you haven’t had pottery kebab yet, go to Avanos. This iconic dish is slow-cooked in a sealed clay pot and cracked open at your table. Tender meat, vegetables, and deep flavor — it’s both a performance and a delicious meal. You’ll find many restaurants in Avanos offering this experience.
Cocktails, Wine & After-Dinner Moments
Cappadocia isn’t a party destination, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a great cocktail or a well-poured glass of wine under the stars.
Lil’a Restaurant also serves beautifully crafted cocktails. Their garden terrace and refined bar service make it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening drink. The bartenders use local herbs, pomegranate, and rose infusions to create original blends.
Apogee Lounge in Uçhisar is stylish and intimate. With a rooftop view and creative drinks, it’s one of the best places to sip something special after dinner. Ask for their seasonal signature cocktails — they’re always doing something new.
Elai Restaurant serves great food, but it’s also a cozy cocktail spot. It’s perfect for a long dinner followed by a bottle of Cappadocian wine or a house cocktail by candlelight.
Casual Eats: Burgers, Pizza, and Steak
Sometimes, you just want a good burger or a classic pizza — and there are great options here too.
Paprika in Uçhisar is the go-to burger place. The meat is high quality, the buns are fresh, and the portions are generous. It’s great for a casual lunch or something comforting after a long day of touring.
Elai Restaurant does it again here — their pizzas are wood-fired and delicious. Try the mushroom or sujuk pizza with a side of rocket salad. The setting is rustic, warm, and perfect for both lunch and dinner.
For steak, Centre Restaurant in Uçhisar is one of the top places in the region. They serve high-quality cuts grilled to perfection, with excellent side dishes and house sauces. A quiet and satisfying spot, especially for meat lovers.
Final Tip From Us
Eating and drinking in Cappadocia isn’t just about food — it’s part of the story. From sharing a clay pot meal in a cave restaurant to clinking glasses of wine on a terrace while the sky turns pink, these are the moments that bring the region to life.
If you're staying at Sky Cave Suites, don’t hesitate to ask the team to help with reservations, recommendations, or setting up something special. Whether it’s a sunset dinner or a local food tasting, we’ll help you discover the best of Cappadocia — one bite and one sip at a time.
Let your days be full of views, and your nights full of flavor.