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Türkiye’s growing international reputation in gastronomy has taken another major step forward, with Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announcing the inclusion of Cappadocia in the 2026 Michelin Guide. The announcement, made through his official social media account, follows earlier listings of Istanbul, Izmir, and Mugla in previous editions of the guide.
The selection of Cappadocia reflects Türkiye’s continued rise as a culinary destination, offering more than just historical landmarks and natural beauty. Thanks to the strategic efforts of the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), the country’s rich culinary heritage is becoming more visible on the global stage.
Minister Ersoy emphasized that this milestone underlines the strength of Türkiye’s gastronomy tourism and extended his thanks to the TGA and the Cappadocia Area Directorate for their contributions.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, expressed satisfaction with Cappadocia’s addition, noting that the region’s cultural and gastronomic diversity had left a strong impression on inspectors. “The culinary identity of Cappadocia is deeply rooted in local agriculture and traditional ingredients,” Poullennec stated, adding that experiencing the area’s cuisine offers travelers a compelling reason to visit.
Situated in central Türkiye, Cappadocia has long been known as a crossroads of civilizations, with roots stretching back to the Hittites, the Roman Empire, the Seljuks, and the Ottomans. This layered history has deeply influenced its regional cuisine.
Local specialties such as tandir (pit-roasted meat), guvec (slow-cooked stews), and a range of fermented dishes and traditional mezes now position the region as a standout culinary destination.
Cappadocia will be formally introduced in the 2026 Michelin restaurant selection at a ceremony scheduled for December 4, 2025.
The event will take place at the Four Seasons Hotel Bosphorus in Istanbul, where listings from Istanbul, Izmir, and Mugla will also be revealed. The complete guide will be made accessible through the Michelin Guide’s official website and mobile applications.
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