Home dining becomes the preferred choice for Ramadan iftar, as citizens keep their distance from restaurants due to prices

A new survey conducted on iftar habits as the month of Ramadan approaches in Turkey has revealed that the vast majority of the public prefers their homes for iftar. In the study conducted between February 19-24, 2026, a significant portion of participants expressed that they find the prices charged in restaurants to be quite high.

According to the survey, lentil soup remains the indispensable starter for iftar tables.

While 54.8 percent of participants stated that lentil soup would be on their menu, tarhana soup ranked second with 12.2 percent, and ezogelin soup followed in third place with 7 percent. Among main courses, red meat maintains its top spot, followed by chicken and vegetable dishes. In the dessert category, a change is noticeable this year; milk-based desserts surpassed the classic Ramadan güllaç with a rate of 36.6 percent.

The rate of dining out at restaurants due to high prices is quite low. While 55.4 percent of participants stated that they do not have iftar at cafes or restaurants, the proportion of those who think restaurant prices are reasonable remained at only 1.8 percent. The vast majority are avoiding dining out for economic reasons, and this is seen to have a direct reflection on family and social life.

THE TRADITION OF HOSTING GUESTS DURING RAMADAN CONTINUES

While the popularity of having iftar at home is increasing, it is noteworthy that the Turkish public's tradition of hosting guests also remains vibrant. According to the research, 56.3 percent of citizens stated that they invite guests to their homes for iftar during the month of Ramadan. Including those who say they host guests occasionally, this rate exceeds 88 percent. This reveals that socialization, regardless of economic conditions, holds an important place at Ramadan tables.

The results show that economic pressures and price increases in restaurants are effective in shifting iftar tables to homes. Despite this, the tradition of family togetherness and hospitality continues to exist among the indispensable values of Ramadan.

News Source: 12punto