Antiochia is a small and stylish Istanbul restaurant that specializes exclusively in cuisine from the Turkish city of Antakya, in Hatay Province. The Hatay region borders Syria and is known for its multi-ethnic population and is famed for its spicy foods and grilled meats, but also for some unusual mezes that are rich in spices and layers of flavor, reflecting the culinary influence of the many ethnicities who call this area home.

Located on a street in trendy Asmalımescit, surrounded by bars and clubs, Antiochia is very popular with both locals and tourists. The décor is modern and minimal, and the menu is equally spare, offering a limited selection of mezes and grilled meat dishes.

While the kebab dishes are all recommended, so are the various meze, and for those who want to sample the variety the meze plate is a good option. The generous use of herbs and spices for which the Hatay region is known is reflected in the meze selection, with contrasting textures and flavors that combine sweet, savory, and sour.

There are just two desserts on the menu, which are both unusual and also rather sweet, and may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Antiochia is an excellent choice for those who want to try Turkish food with a spicy kick.

Recommended Dishes

Kekik salatası (crushed green olives marinated in thyme)

Ev yapımı otlu yoğurt (thick and creamy freshly made yogurt)

Nar ekşili cevizli közbiber (grilled red and green peppers mixed with walnuts and sour pomegranate sauce)

Related Links

Articles

Istanbul's Empire Ethnic Cuisine; by Yeşim Yemni