Following the devastating 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye, the city of Hatay is utilizing its rich culinary heritage as a cornerstone of its recovery efforts. The “Sofa ve Miras” (Sofa and Legacy) initiative is central to this process, leveraging gastronomy and cultural preservation to rebuild community and economy. This effort aims to transform Hatay’s renowned cuisine into a symbol of resilience and a driver of regional revitalization. The project focuses on supporting local chefs, preserving traditional recipes, and promoting Hatay’s unique food culture to the world. By embracing “gastrodiplomacy,” Hatay seeks to attract tourism and investment, fostering economic growth in the aftermath of the disaster. The initiative highlights the integral link between cultural identity and post-disaster recovery, demonstrating how food can be a powerful tool for healing and rebuilding.
