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How İzmir kumru evolved from a street sandwich into a registered specialty

Registered as a geographical indication in 2017, kumru — a sesame-covered oval bread filled with sausage and cheese — symbolizes the city's distinctive sandwich culture.

July 29, 2026 İzmir
How İzmir kumru evolved from a street sandwich into a registered specialty
Blog

A sandwich named after its bread

İzmir Kumru takes its name from the sesame-covered, oval-shaped "kumru bread." Filled with sausage, kaşar cheese, tomato and cucumber, this sandwich is one of the city's most recognized street foods.

Official registration

Kumru received its geographical indication registration with the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office in 2017. This registration formally protects the product's İzmir-specific preparation method.

A classic warmed on a sandwich press

Kumru is typically served warm, grilled on a sandwich press. This method crisps up the exterior of the bread while keeping the flavors of the fillings intact.

Found throughout the city

Kumru is sold in nearly every neighborhood of İzmir, from the coastal districts to the inland ones. For visitors walking along the Kordon promenade in particular, it remains a practical choice for a quick break.

Category
Life
Date
July 29, 2026
Location
İzmir