Turkish kahvalti has been declared the world’s best breakfast according to Taste Atlas’s latest ranking. The traditional Turkish breakfast is an essential and often lavish meal, featuring a wide variety of dishes.

Serbian lepinja secured the second-place spot on the list of the 50 best breakfasts worldwide. This comes as recognition of the unique flavors and preparation methods of this dish.

Lepinja, sometimes referred to as “lepinja with everything,” originated in the late 19th century at the “Šuljaga” bakery in Užice. The addition of kaymak (clotted cream) and egg to the bread, soaked in roasted lamb or pork sauce, transformed it into a beloved breakfast staple.

While lepinja can be found throughout Serbia, the Užice region is known for preserving its authentic preparation. The “Šuljaga” bakery emphasizes maintaining the traditional technique, from using flour from the mill without additives to baking in an open-fire oven and cooling the lepinja covered with linen cloths. The final touch involves adding homemade kaymak, egg, and a sauce made from roasting piglets and lambs in the same ratio.

Macedonian zelnik also made the list, ranking in 20th place.

Turkish kahvalti encompasses a diverse array of flavors, textures, and food categories. The breakfast table is adorned with a combination of sweet and savory items, including cheeses, olives, vegetables, local bread, eggs, burek, baklava, and other pastries, complemented by hot drinks like Turkish tea. The name “kahvalti” originates from the Ottoman era custom of enjoying the meal before coffee.