The official dinner hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in honor of NATO leaders in Ankara stood out not only for its diplomatic significance but also for its meticulously curated menu—highlighted by a special request from former U.S. President Donald Trump.
A Diplomatic Gathering with Culinary Distinction
Erdoğan and his wife welcomed the assembled leaders at the Presidential Complex just hours before the NATO Summit began. Among those in attendance were Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy—accompanied by his wife, Olena—in a rare public appearance.
The dinner served as an informal setting for high-level exchanges, drawing attention not only to political discussions but also to the gastronomic showcase carefully designed to reflect Turkey’s rich culinary heritage.
A Menu Rooted in Tradition and Terroir
The menu emphasized regional specialties and ingredients bearing protected geographical indications—from Trabzon butter and Hizan honey to Denizli yogurt and smoked tomato paste from Ayaş.
The evening opened with traditional taş fırın pide (stone-oven flatbread), served with Trabzon butter and Hizan honeycomb. This was followed by seasonal vegetables cooked in olive oil and charred yogurt from Denizli—a subtle yet distinctive pairing.
Starter Highlights
Among the standout appetizers was Kayseri mantısı—delicate dumplings from central Anatolia—served with charred Denizli yogurt and smoky Ayaş tomato paste, blending tradition with modern culinary finesse.
Main Courses: Choice, Character, and Custom
Guests had two main course options. Seafood lovers enjoyed sea bass with tarama, artichokes from Vourla, and grape leaves from Tokat. Trump—who is widely known for his preference for red meat—opted for slow-roasted beef ribeye. His plate featured Trabzon browned butter, roasted eggplant, and bulgur pilaf with morel mushrooms.
Sweet Finale
The meal concluded with a traditional milk-based baklava, garnished with Antep pistachio foam and authentic Maraş ice cream flavored with mastic—an aromatic finish that underscored both craftsmanship and cultural identity.
Greek Prime Minister’s Arrival
Shortly before 8 p.m., Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis arrived in Ankara and was personally greeted by Erdoğan at the entrance of the Presidential Complex. The two leaders exchanged handshakes and held a brief conversation—a gesture underscoring the evolving dynamics within the alliance.