Trying a new cuisine for the first time is always an adventure. If you’re new to Turkish food, you’re in for a flavorful, colorful, and satisfying journey. Known for its balance of spices, fresh ingredients, and rich culinary history, Turkish cuisine offers something for every palate. At Mama Fatma, with locations in Mississauga, we’re here to guide you through your first experience with authentic Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean food—all prepared with 100% halal-certified ingredients.

Whether you’re in Toronto / Canada or just visiting, this guide will help you confidently choose what to order when you’re new to Turkish food.

Easy Dishes for First-Time Diners

When exploring a new cuisine, it’s always good to start with dishes that are familiar in form, but unique in flavor.

Chicken Shish

Tender cubes of marinated chicken skewered and grilled to perfection. Served with rice and grilled vegetables, it’s a safe but flavorful starting point for anyone unsure what to try.

Pide

Often called Turkish pizza, pide is made with a boat-shaped dough base and topped with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, minced meat, or egg. It’s easy to share and even easier to love.

Lahmacun

This thin, crispy flatbread topped with spiced ground beef and herbs is light, flavorful, and a great appetizer or light main course.

These items are perfect if you’re wondering how to order Turkish food without diving too deep into the unknown.

Popular Appetizers to Start With

Turkish meals often begin with a variety of small plates known as meze. These are great for sharing and let you taste multiple flavors in one sitting.

Hummus

A creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic. Familiar, smooth, and comforting.

Haydari

Thick, strained yogurt mixed with garlic, dill, and mint. Cooling and refreshing, this dip pairs well with warm pita.

Ezme

A finely chopped, spicy salad made of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs. It adds a fresh kick to your meze platter.

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma)

Grape leaves filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. Served cold or warm, they’re savory and aromatic.

At Mama Fatma, we recommend starting your meal with a mixed meze platter to get the full range of textures and tastes.

Main Courses Everyone Enjoys

If you’re not sure what to order as a main course, these customer favorites are guaranteed to satisfy, even if you’re just learning how to order food in Turkish for the first time.

Adana Kebab

A flavorful skewer of minced lamb, seasoned with paprika and herbs. Slightly spicy and deeply aromatic, this dish is often served with lavash bread and bulgur.

Iskender Kebab

Sliced doner meat laid over cubes of pita bread, topped with tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt. It’s rich, tangy, and comforting—perfect for a rainy day.

Karniyarik

Roasted eggplants stuffed with ground beef, onions, and tomatoes. Served hot and often accompanied by rice, it’s a cozy and satisfying dish.

Manti (Turkish Dumplings)

Tiny dumplings filled with ground meat, served with garlic yogurt and a drizzle of melted butter infused with Aleppo pepper. Think of it as Turkish ravioli with a twist.

These dishes are some of the most popular Turkish comfort foods—ideal for first-timers who want a full cultural experience.

How to Choose the Right Drink

Pairing the right drink with your meal can elevate your experience and introduce you to even more Turkish flavors.

Ayran

A salty, yogurt-based drink that’s cool and refreshing. It’s perfect alongside grilled meats and spicy dishes.

Şalgam

A fermented drink made from purple carrots and turnips, flavored with spices. It’s a bold, tangy option for the adventurous palate.

Turkish Tea

Served in tulip-shaped glasses, Turkish tea is strong, black, and slightly astringent. It’s a staple at any time of day.

Turkish Coffee

Brewed in a small pot and served unfiltered, Turkish coffee is thick, rich, and usually accompanied by a sweet like Turkish delight.

Not sure what to pair with your food? Our staff at Mama Fatma will be happy to help you match the right drink to your meal.

What to Expect from the Menu

At Mama Fatma, our menu is designed to be welcoming for both newcomers and seasoned fans of Turkish cuisine. Here’s how it’s generally structured:

Meze & Appetizers

Small, shareable dishes to whet the appetite and encourage conversation.

Soups

Lentil soup (mercimek çorbası) and yogurt soup (yayla çorbası) are staples.

Grilled Meats & Kebabs

From lamb chops to chicken skewers, these are the heart of many Turkish meals.

Casseroles & Stews

Slow-cooked dishes like tas kebab and kuru fasulye offer hearty, comforting flavors.

Vegetarian Options

Dishes like imam bayıldı stuffed eggplant and green beans in olive oil cater to meat-free diets.

Desserts

Baklava, künefe, and sütlaç (rice pudding) are all must-tries. Don’t forget to order Turkish tea or coffee to finish your meal.

Whether you’re dining in Mississauga, our friendly staff is always happy to explain the menu, offer recommendations, and help you order Turkish food with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Trying Turkish food for the first time doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right guidance and a welcoming environment, it can be one of the most delicious discoveries you’ll ever make.

At Mama Fatma, we offer more than just food—we offer a cultural experience rooted in hospitality, tradition, and flavor. Whether you’re curious about how to order food in Turkish or simply want to enjoy a great meal with friends, our team is here to make you feel right at home.

Reserve your table today at Mama Fatma in Mississauga, and let us introduce you to the timeless joys of Turkish cuisine—one dish at a time.