Top 5 Places to Eat in Van

Written by Sebastien Simon, Javier Garcia
08/08/2025
Stunning aerial view of Lake Van, with vibrant turquoise waters surrounded by green hills and distant mountains in Türkiye.
Leyla Helvaci, Pexels

The culinary scene in Van, Turkey, is celebrated for its distinctive and abundant "Van Breakfast," complemented by a range of authentic Turkish restaurants offering traditional meat dishes and regional specialties.

1. Bak Hele Bak Yusuf Konak Kahvalti ve Kultur Sarayi

Cuisine: Authentic Van Breakfast, Traditional Local Dishes

This venue provides an immersive experience into Van's renowned breakfast culture. Guests can savor an extensive spread of homemade delights, including 'kavut,' 'murtuga,' 'kaymak,' and the famous 'otlu peynir' (herbed cheese), alongside a variety of local honeys, jams, and fresh produce. The owner is highly regarded for their hospitality, fostering a friendly environment dedicated to preserving traditional Van cuisine. The establishment also offers Ayran Asi soup, pide, and grilled meat.

Price: Approximately 150-300 TL per person (~$4-8 USD)

Getting There: Centrally located, typically within walking distance from major city areas. Specific address not widely published, but local inquiries will direct visitors.

2. Urartu Han Van Kahvaltısı ve Yöresel Yemekler

Cuisine: Traditional Van Breakfast, Regional Turkish Cuisine

Set within a location with a historical ambiance, Urartu Han is a must-visit for an authentic Van breakfast, with all items prepared fresh. The breakfast menu is vibrant, featuring a 'Chef Plate' that showcases diverse Turkish flavors. Beyond breakfast, the restaurant offers an excellent selection of regional dishes, with a tasting menu noted for its quality. The service is consistently praised, enhancing the unique dining experience.

Price: Breakfast: 150-300 TL (~$4-8 USD); Dinner: 300-600+ TL (~$8-16+ USD)

Getting There: Located in the Bahçıvan neighborhood, near SGK, which is a central area often accessible on foot from many accommodations.

3. Erkoç Cağ Kebap Restaurant

Cuisine: Cağ Kebap (spit-roasted lamb kebab) and Turkish grilled meats

A highly recommended spot for kebab enthusiasts, Erkoç Cağ Kebap is celebrated for its tender and flavorful Cağ Kebap, a regional specialty. Portions are generous, and the quality is consistently high, offered at reasonable prices. Meals typically include Ayran, fresh salad, sauces, and traditional bread. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Guests should also consider trying their Kadayıf Dolması for dessert.

Price: Approximately 100-250 TL per person (~$3-7 USD)

Getting There: Situated in the heart of Van, making it easily accessible on foot from most central city locations.

4. Kervansaray Restaurant

Cuisine: Authentic Turkish Cuisine, Traditional Meat Dishes

Kervansaray Restaurant provides a homely and relaxing atmosphere, ideal for a comfortable meal. It is well-regarded for its authentic Turkish dishes, with the 'Sacta Tava' — a meat dish cooked on a flat iron plate and served with fresh salads and homemade sweets — being a signature item. The staff are consistently noted for their friendliness and professionalism, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

Price: Approximately 200-400 TL per person (~$6-11 USD)

Getting There: Conveniently located on Cumhuriyet Cd. 84/A D:1, 65130 İpekyolu/Van, Turkey, which is a major thoroughfare and easily reachable.

5. Merkez Et Lokantası

Cuisine: Upscale Turkish Meat Dishes, Kebabs, Lahmacun

Considered a finer dining establishment in Van for its quality meat offerings, Merkez Et Lokantası is known for its delicious kebabs and lahmacuns. Despite being located on the second floor of a gas station, it delivers a noteworthy dining experience characterized by quick and professional service. This restaurant caters to those seeking a slightly more elevated traditional Turkish meal within Van.

Price: Approximately 400-800+ TL per person (~$11-23+ USD)

Getting There: While its specific address within a gas station requires a short drive or taxi ride from the city center, it is a well-known local spot.

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