Gozleme is the Turkish stuffed flatbread taking Sydney by storm. Learn what it is, what goes in it and where to get the best gozleme in Darlinghurst.
If you've been to a Turkish market or festival in Sydney, you've probably seen gözleme (pronounced goz-leh-meh) — the golden, crispy flatbread being folded and pressed on a hot griddle. It's one of Turkey's most beloved street foods, and for good reason.
What Is Gozleme?
Gozleme is a traditional Turkish savoury pastry made from hand-rolled, unleavened dough that's filled, folded and cooked on a flat iron griddle called a sac. The name comes from the Turkish word "göz" meaning "eye" or "compartment" — referring to the pocket of filling sealed inside the dough.
The dough is simple — flour, water and a little salt — but the technique is everything. It should be thin enough to turn golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft within, with the filling steaming inside.
What Fillings Does Gozleme Come In?
At Cappadocia Cafe, our gozleme ($18) comes in three fillings, each served with haydari (Turkish yogurt dip) and a lemon wedge:
- Spinach & Feta (V) — the classic. Wilted spinach and creamy feta cheese. Vegetarian-friendly.
- Lamb & Spinach — slow-cooked spiced lamb with fresh spinach. Rich and savoury.
- Chicken & Mushroom — tender chicken pieces with sautéed mushrooms. A crowd favourite.
Gozleme vs Other Flatbreads
People often compare gozleme to a quesadilla or a crepe, but it's distinctly its own thing. Unlike a quesadilla, the dough is made from scratch (not a tortilla). Unlike a crepe, it's savoury-focused and cooked on a dry griddle, not buttered. The result is a unique texture — chewy in the middle, crispy and golden on the outside.
Is Gozleme Healthy?
Gozleme is surprisingly balanced. The dough is simple and low in fat. The spinach and feta filling provides iron, calcium and protein. It's filling without being heavy — a great lunch or light dinner option. Our spinach and feta version is vegetarian.
Try our gozleme at Cappadocia Cafe, 82-84 Stanley St, Darlinghurst. Available for lunch and dinner Wednesday–Sunday.
