Abstract:

Considering that local flavors are one of the important destination marketing elements and their use as a marketing and branding tool today, it is important to focus more on the gastronomic values of local destinations. With its geography and social demographic structure, Elazig is an important destination with various local flavors. In this context, the evaluation of the local Elazig culinary culture, which can be used as a destination marketing element, within the scope of gastronomic tourism, in a way, constitutes the main purpose of this study. In this study, in which qualitative research methods were used, secondary data was used to determine the dishes related to Elazig cuisine. In this study, the foods in the culinary culture of Elazig, the gastronomic products with geographical indication and the gastronomic products that are nominated for geographical indication are discussed. As a result of the study, it has been determined that Elazig has a rich and diverse culinary culture, but the number of geographically indicated products (4 geographically indicated products, 5 products at the application stage) in the field of gastronomy tourism in Elazig province is limited and these products cannot be used sufficiently as a tourism element, and this recommendations have been developed. At the same time, as a result of the study, it was concluded that Elazig cuisine could be used as a destination marketing element by offering the opportunity to experience different tastes to the visitors.

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