Josh Slavin in Şahinbey, Gaziantep: 1 Spot

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Şahinbey

Must-try foods in Şahinbey

• Gaziantep Baklavası
  Gaziantep BaklavasıThe world-renowned pinnacle of Turkish sweets, featuring 40-50 layers of paper-thin phyllo dough filled with vibrant 'green gold' pistachios and soaked in a light sugar syrup. In the Alaybey area, legendary shops like Elmacı Pazarı Güllüoğlu have perfected this craft over generations.
• Beyran Çorbası
  Beyran ÇorbasıA spicy, rich breakfast soup that is a Gaziantep institution. It is made by slow-cooking lamb neck for hours, then combining the shredded meat with rice, rendered lamb fat, garlic, and a heavy dose of Aleppo pepper flakes in a small copper plate over a high-heat flame.
• Katmer
  KatmerA crisp, square-shaped breakfast pastry made by stretching dough until translucent, then folding it around a filling of kaymak (clotted cream), sugar, and crushed pistachios. It is traditionally the first meal shared by newlyweds in the region to symbolize a 'sweet' life.
• Antep Lahmacun
  Antep LahmacunUnlike versions found elsewhere, the local lahmacun is ultra-thin and distinguished by the addition of garlic, fresh parsley, and a specific blend of ground lamb and vegetables. It is traditionally baked in a stone oven until the edges are perfectly charred and crispy.
• Yuvarlama
  YuvarlamaA festive, labor-intensive soup typically served during Eid, featuring tiny, hand-rolled rice and meat balls (the size of chickpeas) simmered in a creamy yogurt broth with chickpeas and tender lamb chunks, finished with a drizzle of hot mint oil.
• Küşleme
  KüşlemeA prized cut of lamb tenderloin located along the spine, known for being incredibly soft and flavorful. It is typically grilled over charcoal with minimal seasoning to highlight the natural quality of the meat, often served at specialized 'küşlemeci' spots.

Trip guide

• About Şahinbey
  About ŞahinbeyAlaybey is a neighborhood located within the Şahinbey district of Gaziantep, Turkey. As of 2026, it remains a central area characterized by its integration of historical structures and traditional urban layout. Historical Heritage The neighborhood is part of the ancient settlement fabric of Gaziantep, which has historical roots dating back to the 4th millennium BCE.
• 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 walking through the historic district. Summer months can be intensely hot with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), while winters are cold and occasionally snowy. To avoid the largest crowds and peak prices, aim for the shoulder seasons.
• Getting around
  Getting around Şahinbey

  • Public Bus (Gaziulaş & ÖHO) Alaybey is served by extensive municipal and private public bus networks. Key routes like M04, M08, and B25 connect the district to central hubs like the Gaziantep University area and the main bus terminal (Otogar).
  • Gaziantep Tramway (Light Rail) The T1 light rail line is a primary transit method for reaching the Şahinbey area from the central railway station and major boulevards. The Gaziantep Üniversitesi (GAÜN) stop is a major nearby transfer point for local.
  • Airport Shuttle (Havaş) For arrivals via Gaziantep Airport (GZT), Havaş shuttle buses provide direct transport to central Şahinbey locations like Şirehan.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use the Gaziantep Kart for affordable and efficient travel on local buses and the tram line that connects the district to the city center.
  • Always wait for the eldest person at the table to begin eating as a sign of respect during local meals.
  • Accept tea when offered by shopkeepers in the local bazaars, as refusing can be seen as a slight to their hospitality.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Şahinbey

  • Gastrodiplomacy Summit: Gaziantep is hosting major international culinary diplomacy events in 2026, solidifying its status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
  • Şahinbey Social Housing Project: The first phase of a massive 10,000-unit modern housing development is nearing completion, reshaping the district's urban landscape.
• 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.