Josh Slavin in Şahinbey, Gaziantep: 3 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Şahinbey

Must-try foods in Şahinbey

• Gaziantep Baklavası
  Gaziantep BaklavasıThe crown jewel of the city, this world-renowned pastry consists of paper-thin layers of phyllo dough, clarified butter, and a generous filling of the region's famous 'boz fıstık' (early-harvest green pistachios). In 2026, iconic spots like Elmacı Pazarı Güllüoğlu and Koçak continue to set the global standard for this UNESCO-protected dessert.
• Nohut Dürümü
  Nohut DürümüA quintessential Gaziantep street food that is naturally pescatarian and vegan. It features chickpeas simmered in a spiced bone-free broth until tender, then mashed and wrapped in fresh lavash with a vibrant salad of parsley, onions, sumac, and lemon. Hotspots like Nohutçu Ökkeş Usta in Şahinbey are trending for their perfectly seasoned wraps.
• Katmer
  KatmerA legendary breakfast pastry made by stretching dough until it is translucent, then folding it around clotted cream (kaymak), sugar, and crushed pistachios. It is baked until crispy and served hot. Katmerci Zekeriya Usta remains a top-tier destination for this 'sweet start' to the day, a tradition recently highlighted in 2026 travel guides.
• Zeytinyağlı Kuru Patlıcan Dolması
  Zeytinyağlı Kuru Patlıcan DolmasıWhile many versions contain meat, the olive oil (zeytinyağlı) version is a local masterpiece. Sun-dried eggplants are rehydrated and stuffed with a tangy, spicy mixture of rice, pomegranate molasses (nar ekşisi), sumac, and local herbs. It is a staple at home-cooking style restaurants like Yesemek in the Alaybey area.
• Kiremitte Alabalık
  Kiremitte AlabalıkA traditional pescatarian favorite often found in the scenic restaurants of Şahinbey. Fresh trout is baked in a traditional clay tile (kiremit) with butter, garlic, and sometimes topped with melted kashar cheese and mushrooms. This slow-cooked method keeps the fish incredibly moist and flavorful.
• Çiğ Köfte (Vegetarian)
  Çiğ Köfte (Vegetarian)Originally made with raw meat, the modern commercial version is meat-free by law and crafted from fine bulgur, isot (Urfa pepper), tomato paste, and various spices. In Gaziantep, it is kneaded with local pomegranate syrup and fresh greens, often served as a spicy appetizer or wrapped in lettuce leaves.

Trip guide

• About Şahinbey
  About ŞahinbeyAlaybey, situated within the Şahinbey district of Gaziantep, is a neighborhood characterized by its 16th-century Ottoman foundations and traditional stone architecture. Historically, the area developed as a commercial and residential hub near the city’s central bazaar, with its layout defined by narrow, winding alleys and high-walled structures.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Alaybey is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild and pleasant for exploring the historic streets. Summer months can be intensely hot with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), while winters are cold and occasionally snowy. Peak tourist season coincides with the temperate spring months and local gastronomy festivals.
• Getting around
  Getting around Şahinbey

  • Gaziantep Oğuzeli Airport (GZT) & Havaş Shuttle Fly into Gaziantep Airport, located approximately 20 km from the city center. From the terminal, take the Havaş shuttle bus to the 'Şirehan' stop.
  • Gaziantep Municipal Bus & Light Rail (Tram) Use the city's extensive bus network (lines like B59, B87, or M12) or the T1 Light Rail line to reach central Şahinbey. You must use a 'Gaziantep Kart' for fare payment.
  • Local Dolmuş (Minibus) & Walking For navigating the historic Alaybey area, utilize local turquoise-colored dolmuşes that follow fixed routes through the district. Because Alaybey contains narrow historic streets and the Alaybey Mosque.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use the Gaziantep Kart for affordable and efficient travel on local buses and trams connecting Alaybey to the rest of the city.
  • Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees to respect the more conservative social norms of this historic neighborhood.
  • Wait for the eldest person at the table to begin eating as a sign of respect during traditional Gaziantep meals.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Şahinbey

  • Anadolu’s City Economies Summit (Gaziantep-Aleppo) focusing on regional trade revival.
  • Middle East Food and Food Technologies Fair (MFF 2026) at the Middle East Expo Center.
• Şahinbey Belediyesi Turizm↗
  Şahinbey Belediyesi TurizmThe official tourism portal of the Şahinbey Municipality, providing information on historical sites, museums, and cultural attractions in the district.