The Role of Spiritually-Based Gastronomic Experiences in Faith Tourism: The Case of Mevlevi Cuisine

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between food and religion and to reveal how
Mevlevi cuisine enriches the faith tourism experience. The research was designed as a qualitative study and
conducted through semi-structured interviews. In this context, face-to-face interviews were carried out with
11 domestic visitors who visited Mevlana and experienced Mevlevi cuisine restaurants in Konya during the
Şeb-i Arus events between 7–17 December 2022. The participants were selected using purposive sampling.
The collected data were analyzed through thematic analysis and grouped under two main themes: (1)
Mevlevi cuisine experience, and (2) the visit to the Mevlana Museum and the spiritual impact of Mevlevi
cuisine. The findings indicate that Mevlevi cuisine is perceived by visitors not merely as a gastronomic
experience, but as a holistic experience carrying cultural, historical, and spiritual meanings. Participants
particularly expressed high levels of satisfaction with distinctive dishes such as almond meatballs,
sirkencubin sherbet, and hassaten lokma. It was found that combinations with sweet–savory and spicebalanced
flavors were initially perceived as unconventional yet were later considered harmonious and
enjoyable after the experience. Moreover, when evaluated together with the visit to the Mevlana Museum,
it was determined that the gastronomic experience strengthens visitors’ spiritual and emotional perceptions.
In conclusion, Mevlevi cuisine goes beyond being a gastronomic element and offers a multidimensional
cultural experience integrated with rituals and symbols, thereby supporting the faith tourism experience.