Turkish Ambassador to Egypt Salih Mutlu Şen celebrates World Breakfast Day with traditional Anatolian feast
The Turkish embassy in Cairo hosted a celebration of World Breakfast Day, bringing together around 50 Egyptian artists, politicians, writers, and journalists for an event showcasing one of Turkey’s most cherished culinary traditions.
Observed on the first Sunday of June, World Breakfast Day was recognized by UNESCO to promote breakfast culture as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage and to raise awareness of the importance of healthy eating habits.
Speaking at the event, Turkish Ambassador to Egypt Salih Mutlu Şen emphasized the cultural importance of breakfast in Turkish society. He noted that the embassy had prepared an authentic Turkish breakfast featuring traditional staples, including cheese, olives, jams, honey, tomatoes, eggs, sucuk (Turkish sausage), pastirma, and menemen, accompanied by Turkish black tea served in its distinctive tulip-shaped glasses.
Turkish embassy diplomat Traje Tama speaks on the characteristics of the Turkish breakfast
Şen highlighted that all ingredients, including the popular simit bread, had been specially brought from Turkey to offer guests an authentic culinary experience.
He also pointed to the similarities between Turkish and Egyptian breakfast traditions, particularly the shared appreciation for black tea and family-centred dining.
“Breakfast is more than a meal in Turkish culture. It serves as a daily gathering that strengthens family ties, encourages conversation, and provides both physical nourishment and emotional connection,” ambassador Şen stressed.
He argued that modern lifestyles often deprive people of these valuable moments, making it increasingly important to preserve and promote breakfast traditions. Encouraging visitors to explore Turkish breakfast culture firsthand, Şen recommended that Egyptians visiting Turkey try the country's famous brunch venues and embrace the tradition of gathering around a generous breakfast table.
Egyptian guests enjoying Turkey’s most cherished culinary traditions (photo credit of the Turkish embassy)
The event also featured a presentation by embassy diplomat Traje Tama on the characteristics of the Turkish breakfast. The presentation explained that Turkish breakfast stands out for its variety, combining savory cheeses and olives with sweet jams and honey in a leisurely, communal dining experience that reflects hospitality and abundance. Guests learned how regional products from across Turkey contribute to the richness of the breakfast table, from Aegean cheeses to Black Sea cream.
Turkish breakfast table highlighting its cultural significance and nutritional value
The presentation also highlighted the growing international popularity of Turkish breakfast, driven by social media and the global expansion of Turkish restaurants. A central feature of the tradition is Turkish black tea, served continuously throughout the meal. More than a beverage, tea symbolizes hospitality and social connection, reinforcing the relaxed and communal atmosphere that has made Turkish breakfast one of the country's most celebrated cultural traditions.
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