Kas Mediterranean Coast, Turkey Travel Guide
Turkish cuisine blends diverse influences, reflecting centuries of empire and cultural exchange. Kaş focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with emphasis on seafood due to its Mediterranean coast location.
Meals often become social events, reflecting a deep-seated tradition of hospitality and shared dining.
Olive oil is fundamental, used generously. Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, and peppers are staples. Herbs like mint, parsley, and dill add freshness. Lamb, chicken, and various fish are common protein sources.
Turkish flavors are often savory with subtle spices like garlic, onion, cumin, paprika, and sumac. Sour notes from lemon and pomegranate molasses often balance dishes.
Yogurt, legumes, and wheat (used in bread and bulgur) form core components of the diet.
Sea bass (levrek), bream (çipura), and red mullet (barbun) are popular, often grilled. Find these at seafood restaurants along the harbor.
Coastal specialty.
A required start to many meals, includes haydari (yogurt dip), ezme (spicy tomato dip), eggplant salad, hummus, and piyaz (white bean salad). Available at traditional Turkish restaurants.
Communal dining tradition.
Minced lamb (Adana) or less spicy beef (Urfa) grilled on a skewer. Find at dedicated kebab houses.
Grilled meat specialty.
Çay (Turkish black tea), Ayran (salty yogurt drink), Freshly squeezed juices (orange, pomegranate).
Rakı (anise-flavored spirit), Turkish Beer (Efes Pilsen), Turkish Wine (local varieties from growing wine industry).
A few upscale restaurants, often with prime harbor views, offer refined Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Ideal for a special evening.
The majority of restaurants in Kaş, offering a balance of quality, ambiance, and price. Find traditional Turkish dishes, seafood, and some international options.
Look for "lokanta" for home-style Turkish dishes. Street vendors offer quick and inexpensive meals like simit, döner, and midye dolma.
Held every Friday, it offers fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, spices, and prepared foods.
A true local experience.
Some restaurants offer Italian, Chinese, or other European dishes. Authentic Turkish cuisine is the town's highlight.
Options for varied tastes.
Vegetarian options are relatively easy. Vegan is more challenging, but many mezes are naturally vegan. Clear communication helps.
Most meat is halal. Kosher options are very limited; bring your own provisions if strict requirements.
Gluten-free can be difficult. Communicate clearly using translation cards. Focus on naturally gluten-free dishes.
"Et var mı?" (Is there meat?) "Süt ürünleri var mı?" (Are there dairy products?) Translation cards are useful.
Meals often begin with shared mezes. Fresh bread (ekmek) is always served. Turkish tea (çay) is ubiquitous.
"Afiyet Olsun" means "Enjoy your meal!"
Tipping is appreciated. A 5-10% tip for good service is common in restaurants.
Show your appreciation.
Many Old Town restaurants have rooftop terraces with panoramic sea and town views, ideal for sunset.
Kaş does not host major food festivals, but local village festivals sometimes include food components. This provides a chance to taste regional specialties.
Layers of filo pastry filled with pistachios or walnuts, sweetened with syrup. A rich, sweet pastry.
A hot, cheese-filled pastry soaked in sweet syrup, topped with pistachios. Best eaten warm.
Confectionery made from starch and sugar, with various flavors like rose, lemon, and pistachio. A popular souvenir.
Freshly squeezed orange and pomegranate (nar suyu) juices are widely available and delicious, especially in their peak seasons.
Refreshing and local.
Cherries, figs, and pomegranates are prominent highlights in their respective seasons, providing fresh, local flavors.
Taste the season.
Turkish tea (çay) is often offered as a gesture of hospitality before, during, or after meals.
"Afiyet Olsun" is a common phrase meaning "Enjoy your meal!" or "May it be healthy!"
Fresh bread (ekmek) is always served with meals. Use it to scoop up sauces and dips.
Exploring Kaş's culinary scene is a journey through rich flavors and traditions. Don't hesitate to try new dishes and engage with local vendors.
