The Turkish ambassador's residence in Belgrade was filled with the flavors of authentic Turkish specialties, recipes handed down through generations, and a spirit of camaraderie during the celebration of Turkish Cuisine Week 2026 (Turkish Cuisine Week) from May 21-27. This global event, organized by embassies and diplomatic missions under the patronage of First Lady Emine Erdogan, brought together over 100 distinguished guests, including diplomats, media, tourism industry representatives, hoteliers, and cultural figures.

Cultural Heritage Through Food

The theme of this year's event, "Heritage at the Table" (Bir Sofrada Miras), emphasizes the role of Turkish cuisine as a living cultural heritage that is passed down through generations. It underscores that food is not just a taste remembered but also a story shared. The central message, "The table is the oldest language of community," highlights the power of gastronomy in connecting people, cultures, and generations.

Ambassador's Welcome and Culinary Delights

“Dear guests, friends, thank you for joining this wonderful occasion that brings us all together around the table. Turkish Cuisine Week is not just a culinary celebration for us – it is an opportunity to share the essence of Turkish culture, its warmth, hospitality, and centuries-old heritage with our friends in Serbia. The table that brings together people of different cultures, traditions, and experiences is the strongest sign of community we know. We are proud to celebrate this global event for the fifth year in a row, and I sincerely thank all the guests who have accepted the invitation to share tastes, stories, and memories with us tonight. Enjoy the Turkish specialties,” said Ambassador Ilhan Sajgili of the Republic of Turkey in Serbia.

The guests were treated to carefully selected specialties prepared by renowned Turkish chef Ozgur Kodja, whose traditional dishes showcased the richness and diversity of Turkish gastronomy. UNESCO-protected keşkek, a traditional dish of wheat and meat that symbolizes community and collective effort, was a particular highlight. Other traditional dishes included yaprak sarması (stuffed grape leaves) and reyhan şerbeti, a traditional refreshing drink symbolizing love, devotion, spiritual peace, and well-being.

Turkish Cuisine Week has been promoting the preservation of cultural heritage while simultaneously encouraging intercultural dialogue through the universal language of food.

This was also an excellent opportunity to promote the summer season in numerous cities and regions of Turkey. The tastes of Turkish cuisine, paired with top-quality wine, views of the sea, and everything that makes for a soul and body-reviving holiday, await you along the Turkish coast. Turkey once again opens its doors to all lovers of gastronomy, culture, and sunny days, inviting guests to experience the heritage that is hard to describe in words but authentically conveyed through personal impressions on the face of the places.