"Usually, a plate of Edirne liver will be enough for a normal human being, but these wrestlers order two, three, or even more plates. I'm not sure if it's because they're big guys or the taste of our dish is irresistible," he said, smily wryly.
Mert Gürbüz, his 16-year-old son, said the number of customers peaks during the festival.
Mariana, 51, a Turkish national of Bulgarian origin, who runs a bakery, said she sells more Turkish delight and dessert during the event.
"Honoring the country's old tradition is truly beautiful. In addition to this spiritual satisfaction, we also reap the benefits by earning more and serving more."
Ertuğrul Tanrıkulu, the city's deputy mayor, said that Edirne thrives on its Ottoman Era remains, picturesque mosques, "inspiring" natural beauties, and more.
"By reflecting its history and culture, we do our best to make Edirne a tourist destination," he said. He said the festival attracted many local and international tourists, thus boosting its prosperity.
Tanrıkulu said due to the festival most local hotel rooms were booked months in advance.
"The people of Edirne look forward to hosting this festival," he added.
Edirne province, one of Turkey's top five regional tourist attractions, is also known as the "Sultan of Cities." It was once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, before the conquest of Istanbul in 1453.
Today, this historically rich province draws tourists from all over thanks to its culture, cuisine, faith, and natural treasures.
In 2018, about 3.5 million domestic and international tourists visited the province. The demand peaks during the oil wrestling festival, which honors Turkey's ancient tradition of sports.
