Arslan’s

Arslans Turkish Street Food is a Must-Try for Foodie Month 2025
On Walnut Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, nestled among coffee spots and surf shops, there’s a place where the air carries hints of roasted spices, sizzling meats, and something you don’t smell every day in this beach town: real Turkish street food. This is Arslans Turkish Street Food, and if you haven’t experienced it yet, there’s no better time than Santa Cruz Foodie Month 2025.

Arslans is the creation of husband-and-wife duo Yunus and Marissa Arslan. Yunus was born and raised in Gaziantep, a city in southern Turkey known for its bold flavors and deep culinary roots. After arriving in the U.S., he brought those flavors with him—first to San Francisco, and now, to Santa Cruz. Marissa, a Santa Cruz native, grew up just down the street. Together, they’ve combined their love of food, culture, and community to create something truly special.

At first glance, Arslans feels like a fast-casual eatery—bright, clean, and inviting. But don’t be fooled by the simple layout. The kitchen is where the magic happens. The menu centers around the Döner Kebab, a Turkish classic made by stacking marinated meat on a vertical rotisserie and slicing it thin as it cooks. Whether you choose a wrap, a rice box, or a plate, the result is a mouthwatering mix of textures and flavors: tender meat, crunchy cabbage, crispy fries, fresh herbs, and vibrant sauces that are more house-made magic than condiment.

Veggie lovers are far from left out. Arslans offers a beautifully spiced lentil köfte, made with bulgur and red lentils and packed with bold, earthy flavor. Their salads are fresh and herb-forward, and even the rice—soft, buttery Baldo grains imported from Turkey—feels like something that deserves center stage.

Then there are the sweets. Turkish Delight (yes, the real kind) comes in pomegranate, pistachio, and rose petal, and the baklava is flaky, rich, and not overly sweet—just the way it should be. These treats are perfect for ending your meal, or even grabbing to-go on your next downtown stroll.

But what really makes Arslans shine is the balance it strikes between authenticity and approachability. You don’t have to be familiar with Turkish cuisine to fall in love here. Everything is clearly explained, the staff is warm and welcoming, and the vibe is laid-back—this is Santa Cruz, after all. For longtime locals who’ve never tried Turkish food, it’s an easy and flavorful gateway. And for seasoned travelers or foodies craving something different, it hits all the right notes.

As we celebrate Foodie Month 2025, there’s no better time to explore the culinary corners of Santa Cruz you might’ve missed. Arslans is more than just a great lunch spot—it’s a celebration of cultural roots, family tradition, and the power of food to connect. Yunus and Marissa haven’t just brought something new to town—they’ve made it feel like it’s always belonged here.

So skip the usual and treat yourself to something bold, bright, and delicious. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, Arslans Turkish Street Food promises a taste of something different—and something unforgettable.

Arslans Turkish Street Food
📍 113 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
📞 Phone: (831) 459-9770
🌐 Website: arslansturkishstreetfood.com
🛒 Order Online: ToastTab
📸 Instagram: @arslansturkishfood
📘 Facebook: Arslans Turkish Street Food

Hours
Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM