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Dishes you should try in Hopa: Hamsi Tava (pan-fried anchovies), Kuymak and Karalahana Çorbası (collard green soup). This guide also covers the local products to buy and what Hopa is famous for.

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Famous Dishes of Hopa

  • Hamsi Tava (pan-fried anchovies)

    The anchovy, the emblematic fish of the Black Sea, is served in Hopa fried in cornmeal in the form of a tava. Anchovies are at their most delicious in the winter months and are the main source of protein for local people.

  • Kuymak

    Kuymak, made with cornmeal, butter and civil cheese, is one of Hopa's traditional dishes. It is served stirred continuously over a fire until it reaches a stretchy consistency.

  • Karalahana Çorbası (collard green soup)

    Made with collard greens, cornmeal and beans, this soup is an indispensable winter dish in Hopa. Its nourishing and filling nature makes it a favourite on cold days.

Dishes from Artvin Cuisine

What to eat in Artvin →

These dishes are known throughout Artvin province; see the provincial food guide for details.

  • Hopa Hamsili Ekmek (anchovy cornbread)

    Hopa bread made with cornmeal and anchovies, with a registered geographical indication.

  • Hopa Laz Böreği (custard-filled pastry)

    A sweet börek made by placing custard between layers of yufka, with a registered geographical indication.

  • Şavşat Ketesi (buttery filled pastry)

    Şavşat ketesi, a buttery pastry with a filling.

  • Borçka Demir Elması (Borçka iron apple)

    A local apple with a registered geographical indication, firm in texture and long-lasting.

What to Buy in Hopa: Local Products

  • Hopa Hamsili Ekmeği Hopa Hamsili Ekmeği was registered as a protected geographical indication on 24 September 2021 (TÜRKPATENT registration no. 904). Product group: bakery and pastry products, dough products, desserts. Registered by: Hopa Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
  • Hopa Laz Böreği Hopa Laz Böreği was registered as a protected geographical indication on 8 January 2019 (TÜRKPATENT registration no. 407). Product group: bakery and pastry products, dough products, desserts. Registered by: Hopa Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

What Hopa Is Famous For: Culture and Traditions

  • Border Culture

    Because of its location on the Georgian border, Hopa has been a meeting point of different cultures throughout history. The district, where Laz, Georgian and Turkish cultures have lived side by side, has a multilingual and multicultural character.

  • Laz Culture

    Hopa is one of the important centres of Laz culture. In the district, where Laz is spoken, traditional Laz music, dances and cuisine are kept alive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I eat in Hopa?

Hopa is known for 3 local dishes, above all Hamsi Tava (pan-fried anchovies), Kuymak and Karalahana Çorbası (collard green soup). The anchovy, the emblematic fish of the Black Sea, is served in Hopa fried in cornmeal in the form of a tava. Anchovies are at their most delicious in the winter months and are the main source of protein for local people.

What is Hopa famous for?

Hopa is known for Hamsi Tava (pan-fried anchovies), Hopa Hamsili Ekmeği and Border Culture. Its best-known sights include Sarp Border Gate and Hopa Port.

What to buy in Hopa?

Local products and souvenirs to buy in Hopa include Hopa Hamsili Ekmeği and Hopa Laz Böreği.

Hopa Travel Guide

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