Antioch
Antioch's Culinary Gem: A Taste of Ancient Culture
Antioch, now known as Antakya, is a region that draws its strength from its ancient past and the multicultural tapestry that history has woven into its fabric. This diversity manifests itself in many aspects of life, from social interactions to the economy, and significantly, in its gastronomy. With an 8000-year-old heritage, Antakya has absorbed influences from various civilizations, religions, and traditions, resulting in a unique culinary culture and an impressive array of local flavors.
Antakya's location on the Spice Route and the Silk Road, serving as a gateway to Mesopotamia and the Middle East, has enriched its culinary traditions. The region is known for its abundant use of fresh vegetables, olive oil, legumes, and grains, which are staples of the Mediterranean diet. Each meal in Antakya is not just about nourishment but also about unity, happiness, and long conversations around bountiful tables. The city's culinary culture is a celebration of life, as reflected in the ancient mosaic from the 3rd century AD that says "Be Cheerful, Enjoy Your Life."
The rich culinary heritage of Antioch is generously shared with visitors from around the world, who come to experience these unique flavors firsthand. Preserving, promoting, and ensuring that this heritage receives the recognition it deserves is crucial. Traditional cooking methods, ingredient preparation, and the authentic experience of Antioch's food are essential for the continuity of its culinary culture.
In pursuit of this goal, Antioch has joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Gastronomy. This honor, achieved in November 2017, was the result of a long-term strategy and the creation of the website www.hataygastronomi.com by the Hatay Metropolitan Municipality. This platform showcases Antioch's culinary projects, theses, and dishes with visual and written content in both Turkish and English, making it accessible to a global audience.
Our Restaurant
Where Tradition Meets Authenticity
Our restaurant is dedicated to bringing the ancient culinary traditions of Antioch to life. We pride ourselves on maintaining the authenticity of our dishes, using traditional methods and recipes passed down through generations.
We believe that the essence of Antioch's cuisine lies in its simplicity and the purity of its ingredients.
In our kitchen, ancient cooking techniques are not just preserved—they are celebrated. We use time-honored methods such as slow-cooking, marinating, and grilling over open flames, ensuring that every dish we serve is infused with the rich flavors and aromas that define Antioch's cuisine. From the iconic "Kömeç" to the vibrant "Zahter," our menu is a testament to the region’s diverse culinary heritage.
We also place a strong emphasis on the communal aspect of dining. Our restaurant is designed to be a place where friends and family can gather, share stories, and enjoy a meal together, just as people in Antioch have done for centuries. The warmth and hospitality that are hallmarks of Antioch's culture are at the heart of our dining experience.