Abroad and Hungry in Konak, İzmir: 19 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Bornova

Must-try foods in Bornova

• Kokoreç (İzmir Style)
  Kokoreç (İzmir Style)A legendary street food staple in Bornova, particularly at the famous Kokoreççi Asım Usta. Unlike the Istanbul version, İzmir-style kokoreç (grilled sheep intestines) is chopped into larger, juicier pieces and served with minimal tomato and pepper to emphasize the rich, spiced flavor of the meat.
• Bornova Kumrusu
  Bornova KumrusuAn iconic İzmir sandwich served in a special chickpea-yeast bread. While the classic cold version features tulum cheese and tomatoes, the trending 'hot' version—packed with grilled sucuk, salami, and melting kaşar cheese—is a student favorite in the Kızılay and Küçükpark areas.
• Boyoz
  BoyozThe quintessential İzmir breakfast pastry. This flaky, unleavened bread, originally from the Sephardic Jewish tradition, is best enjoyed warm in Bornova's local bakeries, traditionally paired with a hard-boiled egg sprinkled with black pepper and a glass of Turkish tea.
• İzmir Köfte
  İzmir KöfteA comforting traditional dish of oval-shaped meatballs baked with potatoes, green peppers, and tomatoes in a light, savory broth. In 2026, local 'esnaf lokantası' (tradesmen restaurants) in Bornova Kızılay remain the top spots for this home-style classic.
• Döner (Odun Ateşi)
  Döner (Odun Ateşi)A local obsession, especially at spots like Dönerci Vedat Usta. This is traditional 'yaprak' döner (thinly sliced steak) cooked slowly over a wood fire, served either as a 'porsiyon' with rice or wrapped in fresh lavaş bread.
• Söğüş
  SöğüşA unique İzmir delicacy consisting of cold-cut offal (cheek, tongue, and brain) seasoned with plenty of parsley, onions, tomatoes, and cumin. It is expertly wrapped in a wrap (dürüm) and is a popular choice for foodies looking for an authentic local experience.

Trip guide

• About Bornova
  About BornovaKızılay is a neighborhood located within the Bornova district of İzmir, Turkey. The area is situated on the Bornova Plain at the foot of Mount Yamanlar, approximately 8 kilometers northeast of İzmir's traditional city center.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Kızılay, Bornova, is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild and pleasant for walking. Summers can be intensely hot with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), while winters are rainy and chilly though rarely freezing. To avoid the densest crowds, visit during the "off-peak" summer months when the local university students are on break, or aim for weekday mornings before the evening rush.
• Getting around
  Getting around Bornova

  • İzmir Metro (M1 Line) Take the M1 Metro line towards Evka-3 and exit at the Bornova Station. From there, Kızılay neighborhood is within walking distance or a very short taxi ride heading southeast toward the Ege University hospital area.
  • ESHOT Public Bus System Numerous ESHOT bus lines serve the Bornova center and surrounding Kızılay district from points like Konak or Alsancak. Use an İzmirim Kart to board buses such as the 330 or 963 which pass through the main arterial.
  • Local Dolmuş (Minibuses) Yellow or blue-capped minibuses operate frequently between Bornova Center and surrounding residential areas. These are ideal for navigating the smaller streets of Kızılay where larger buses may not provide direct.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use an İzmirim Kart for seamless travel on the metro and ESHOT buses, as cash is not accepted on most public transit.
  • Expect a vibrant, student-heavy atmosphere due to the proximity of Ege University, making it a safe and lively area even late at night.
  • Say 'Elinize sağlık' to the cook or server after a meal to show appreciation for their work, a gesture highly valued in Turkish hospitality.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Bornova

  • Romeo and Juliet at Bornova Aşık Veysel Open Air Theater (June 2026).
  • Rise of independent art spaces like Bayetav Sanat in the Bornova district.
• Visit İzmir↗
  Visit İzmirThe official tourism portal for İzmir and its districts, including Konak, providing comprehensive guides to historical sites, culture, and local attractions.