We all know that Anupam Roy is a true foodie, and his Instagram account is proof. From snapping maachh at Kolkata bazaars to sharing what’s on his plate, the popular musician and author often lets his love for food take over his social media. Recently, Anupam visited Turkey, and My Kolkata had to ask him about his food experiences — what he loved and what didn’t quite hit the mark. Here’s what he had to say...
My Kolkata: Let’s start with Turkish kebabs. According to a Euro 2024 food survey, Turkish kebabs have been chosen as the leading national food in Europe. Did you try them?
Anupam Roy: Of course! When in Turkey, trying Turkish kebabs is a must! But I love Kolkata kebabs more (laughs). Wherever I go, there’s something or the other from Kolkata that stands out. Another place, where I really enjoy having kebabs, is Lucknow. So, my ranking would be Lucknow, Kolkata and then Turkey. The taste of Lucknow and Kolkata kebabs is quite different, and I think our preference often comes from our familiarity with them.
Do try the traditional Turkish grilled shish kebab while you are there Shutterstock
However, I must clarify something about the kebab ranking. When it comes to red meat kebabs, Turkey wins hands down. Chicken kebabs are great here. As I cannot have red meat regularly, I wish they would also make more chicken and fish dishes along with red meat. I like India’s diverse kebab offerings.
Your thoughts on the kebabs, and what makes them special compared to other kebabs?
The kebabs there are really juicy, made with premium quality meat that gives them a unique flavour. The food is not too spicy either.
As a foodie, what made the travel experience in Turkey special?
I loved the bread there. And because I love rice, pilaf was a hit for me. We went to a place near the sea, called Kuşadası, where we had seafood and grilled fish. The other side of Kuşadası is Greece, hence the Greek influence in the cuisine there was evident. The restaurants were also coloured in blue and white.
Traditional Turkish-style rice pilaf Shutterstock
Since we prepare our food in a certain way — be it frying it or using spices — there is a distinct difference in taste between the two cuisines.
What are five must-try food experiences on a holiday in Turkey?
I am a foodie but I don’t enjoy tea or coffee. But when it comes to Turkish food, Turkish tea needs a special mention. People in Turkey like having tea, something that I have also seen in England. Turkish tea is similar to what we call laal chaa. It is served in cups or glasses — which are quite good to look at.
Turkish tea is similar to what we call 'laal chaa' in Bengal; (right) Turkish coffee served in a traditional porcelain cup Rumela Basu and Shutterstock
Turkish coffee is highly sought after as well. Turkish ice cream has a large fan base, and its playful presentation is quite entertaining. Turkish bread is also good, as are the red meat delicacies I mentioned earlier.
Turkish ice cream also has a soaring fan base Rumela Basu
In Turkey, shawarma is really popular. However, the red meat shawarma is tastier than chicken shawarma. I also tried falafel, pita bread with hummus, and za’atar.
Islak hamburger or wet burger — a popular Turkish dish that Anupam tried Anupam Roy
They also have semolina-based sweets, more like our halwa, which are very popular —baklava, the quintessential Turkish sweet, is unmatched in taste.
Do you have any restaurant recommendations for our readers?
I don’t have any specific restaurant recommendations, but enjoying food in the marketplaces of Turkey can be a great experience.
From fragrant handmade soaps and spices to gorgeous lamps and signature pottery — there is a lot in store at the famous bazaars of Turkey Rumela Basu
Did you try any fusion food while in Turkey?
No, I did not try any fusion food while in Turkey. However, the breakfast platter at the hotel was diverse and interesting. I could not recognise many of the fruits, but loved the oranges and grapes — the citrus fruits were quite tasty.
Is there a food or ingredient in Turkish cuisine that you didn’t like? What was the best thing you ate or drank there?
Turkish coffee — I did not like the taste.
Did you bring back any food souvenirs or wine?
No, I did not bring anything back from Turkey.
