The Turkish Riviera, with fragments of islands too small to name and hidden lagoons to swim in, has become one of the Mediterranean’s most glamorous hangouts and where the term ‘long lunch’ was intended. With plenty of beachside locations on the list, we pick out a few that have caught our eye.
Known as THE place to go for an authentic Village Turkish Breakfast, Havva Ana is a true farm-to-fork breakfast spot. Located in the quiet village of Gökçebel it pulls in urbanites from Ankara and Istanbul for hot börek, sweet cherry jam, fried eggs with peppers, all served with urns of red-tinted Turkish tea.
It’s a lovely traditional setting, and when you visit, it’s clear to see why this spot is popular with the locals. It’s tucked up in a quiet rural village and the sheep, chickens and cow in the neighbouring field support the restaurant with their milk and eggs.
Havva Ana
Dirmil Mahallesi, Ertürk Sk. NO:18/2, Yalıkavak Belediyesi, Muğla Province
+90 532 684 7966
Supper at beachside Ayana Mes still feels like a secret. Serving traditional homemade Turkish food, the talented chefs will also prepare delicious halal meals, which are a must-try! This is a locals hotspot, in the high summer with the tables dotted on the sand, its best for watching the sunsets at dinner, with wood fire, and quiet Turkish classical music. Definitely one to visit if you want to feast on meze, grilled octopus, stuffed pumpkin flowers and a speciality of boiled cockerel.
Ayana -
Ortakent - Bodrum
Fink Beach Yanı
0532 666 9277
Orfoz restaurant is a real secret spot in Bodrum, hidden behind
the castle on the Bodrum peninsula. Known for the most extraordinary fresh shellfish, their gourmet menu is composed of a vast selection of seafood plates from fish soup, to mussels, langoustine, and crab.
A family business run by brothers Cağri and Cağlar who have followed in their parents footsteps. If you are a foodie for seafood, then Orfoz is the not to be missed. Positioned in front of the glittering Mediterranean Sea with an impressive wine list full of rare in the region wines, it’s a local treasure.
Orfoz Restaurant Bodrum
Kumbahçe, Zeki Müren Cd. No: 13/1, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla
+90 (0)252 316 4285
Mimoza is a beautiful fish restaurant, situated in one of the most beautiful coves on the Bodrum Peninsula, in Gumusluk. With its white wood tables surrounded by bougainvilleas, you’ll eat on a terrace right by the sea, with little lanterns swinging from the trees. The Mediterranean décor is idyllic overlooking the stone pier at the harbour of the ancient city of Myndos.
The menu consists of a delicious array of dishes including fresh fish and mezes. Stuffed mussels, grilled fish, and flambé shrimps that are cooked right by your table. If you have a sweet tooth, you must try the heavenly desserts and fresh fruits served any time of day.
There is no menu and it is an expensive meal compared to other locations, but the restaurant has the best position away from the main town, and the offers an exceptional experience – perfect for a special occasion.
Mimoza
Buyuk Iskender Cd Gusmusluk, Bodrum
(+90 (0)212 394 3139