HT Keşfet in Şahinbey, Gaziantep: 4 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Şahinbey

Must-try foods in Şahinbey

• Beyran Çorbası
  Beyran ÇorbasıA fiery, ritualistic breakfast soup that is the soul of Şahinbey. It consists of slow-cooked lamb neck, rice, and marrow fat, seasoned heavily with garlic and Aleppo pepper. Traditionally, it is served in small copper bowls over a high-flame blast to ensure it reaches the table bubbling hot.
• Antep Baklavası
  Antep BaklavasıThe gold standard of Turkish sweets, featuring up to 40 layers of paper-thin phyllo dough. It is filled with 'boz' pistachios (harvested early for a vibrant green color) and clarified sheep's butter. In 2026, the 'Kuru Baklava' (dry version) remains a top choice for its longer shelf life and intense crunch.
• Katmer
  KatmerA decadent breakfast pastry made by stretching dough until translucent, then folding it over layers of kaymak (clotted cream), sugar, and crushed pistachios. It is baked until crispy and served warm, traditionally as the first meal for newlyweds to ensure a 'sweet life'.
• Yuvalama
  YuvalamaA labor-intensive festive soup often called the most difficult dish in Turkish cuisine. It features tiny, hand-rolled rice and meat pearls (no bigger than a chickpea) simmered in a tangy yogurt broth with chickpeas and tender lamb, topped with dried mint infused in hot oil.
• Küşleme
  KüşlemeThe most prized cut of lamb in Gaziantep, taken from the tenderloin. This lean, salt-and-pepper seasoned meat is so tender it requires no marination. It is quickly grilled over oak charcoal to maintain its juices, often served at legendary local spots like Kebapçı Halil Usta.
• Antep Lahmacun
  Antep LahmacunUnlike the Istanbul version, the Şahinbey style is defined by its use of garlic instead of onion and the addition of roasted eggplant or pomegranate molasses. This ultra-thin, crispy flatbread is topped with a spicy minced lamb mixture and baked in a stone oven.

Trip guide

• About Şahinbey
  About ŞahinbeyŞahinbey is a central district of Gaziantep, Turkey, situated in the Southeastern Anatolia Region. The district covers approximately 960 square kilometers and is named after Mehmet Sait, a commander during the 1920–1921 defense of the city. Historical Heritage The district's history spans from the Hittite period through Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman rule.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Şahinbey is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild and pleasant for exploring the historic district. Summers are intensely hot and dry, often exceeding 35°C (95°F), while winters can be quite cold with occasional snowfall. To avoid the largest crowds and peak prices, aim for the shoulder months of May or September, as the city becomes very busy during local school holidays and major food festivals.
• Getting around
  Getting around Şahinbey

  • Gaziantep Oğuzeli Airport (GZT) and HAVAŞ Shuttles Fly into Gaziantep Airport, located approximately 20 kilometers away, then utilize HAVAŞ shuttle buses or taxis to reach the central Şahinbey district directly.
  • Gaziantep Tramway (Gaziray and Antray) Navigate the district using the extensive light rail system which connects major landmarks, residential areas, and the university, offering a cost-effective way to avoid traffic.
  • Municipal Buses and Kart27 System Access a comprehensive network of municipal blue buses and private minibuses (dolmuş) using the Kart27 smart card for seamless travel across all neighborhoods in Şahinbey.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use the Gaziulaş card or a contactless bank card to pay for the city's extensive bus and tram network.
  • Dress conservatively by covering shoulders and knees to respect the local social norms of this traditional region.
  • Always use your right hand when shaking hands or passing food to others as a sign of respect.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Şahinbey

  • Şahinbey Yağlı Güreşleri (Oil Wrestling Championship) 4th edition held in April 2026.
  • Middle East Food and Food Technologies Fair at the Ortadogu Fuar Merkezi.
• 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.