Mediterranean Coast, Turkey
Turkey's culinary heritage dates back to the Ottoman Empire, influencing sophisticated dishes.
Food reflects varied geography, from fertile plains to abundant seafood of its long coastline.
Common staples include lamb, beef, chicken, fish. Vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, peppers. Legumes and grains like chickpeas, lentils, bulgur, rice.
Paprika, cumin, mint, oregano, sumac, and red pepper flakes are common. Fresh herbs are widespread.
Dishes often achieve a savory depth, sometimes with a hint of sweetness. Yogurt frequently accompanies meals, giving a refreshing, tangy contrast.
Vertically roasted meat (lamb, beef, or chicken) thinly sliced. Served in bread, wrapped in lavash, or on a plate with rice and salad.
Widely available from street stalls and casual eateries throughout Ölüdeniz and Fethiye.
Spiced minced meat kebabs, grilled on long skewers. Adana is known for its spiciness, while Urfa has a milder flavor.
Find these in traditional kebab restaurants (kebapçılar).
Lahmacun: A thin, crispy Turkish pizza with minced meat and vegetables. Pide: Turkish flatbread baked with various toppings, similar to a boat-shaped pizza.
Lahmacun is a popular street food. Pide is available in many local restaurants and bakeries.
Turkish Tea (Çay): Black tea in tulip glasses. Turkish Coffee (Türk Kahvesi): Strong, unfiltered. Ayran: A refreshing, savory yogurt drink. Şalgam Suyu: A fermented turnip juice. Rakı: Anise-flavored alcoholic drink. Local Beer like Efes Pilsen.
Baklava: Layers of thin filo pastry with pistachios or walnuts, soaked in sweet syrup. Turkish Delight (Lokum): Confection with various flavors. Künefe: Hot, stringy cheese pastry soaked in sweet syrup. Dondurma: Turkish ice cream with a chewy texture.
True fine dining is limited in Ölüdeniz itself. Some upscale resorts or restaurants with commanding sea views have a more refined dining experience.
Numerous mid-range options exist in Ölüdeniz, Hisarönü, and Ovacık. These establishments offer a mix of traditional Turkish and international cuisine.
Affordable choices throughout the region, catering to budget travelers.
This large, bustling weekly market (every Tuesday) offers fresh produce, olives, cheeses, spices, and clothing.
A must-visit for local flavors.
Ölüdeniz and Hisarönü cater to a large international tourist base, with British pub food, Italian, Chinese, Indian, and other options.
Many choices for familiar cravings.
Many options with fresh vegetables and olive oil. Inquiry for dairy/butter.
Most meat is halal. Kosher not widely available.
Can be challenging. Communicate clearly, choose simple dishes.
Use Google Translate or chef's card.
Select fresh fish from market vendors, then choose one of the surrounding restaurants to prepare and serve it for a small fee.
This guarantees the freshest possible meal.
Restaurants at the summit of Mount Babadağ, accessible via cable car, offer dining with unparalleled panoramic views over Ölüdeniz.
Popular for sunset dinners, combining food with a spectacular natural backdrop.
A tip of 5-10% of the bill is customary for good service in restaurants.
Breakfast (Kahvaltı) is typically a rich, extensive spread, served from early morning. Lunch (Öğle Yemeği) is often a lighter meal, around 12-2 PM. Dinner (Akşam Yemeği) is the main meal, starting later, between 7-9 PM.
Select fresh fish from vendors, then have it cooked by one of the surrounding restaurants for a small preparation fee.
Restaurants at the summit, accessible via cable car, offer dining with unparalleled panoramic views over Ölüdeniz.
Local eateries, often away from main tourist strips, offer home-style Turkish cooking at affordable prices.
Typically a rich, extensive spread including cheeses, olives, fresh vegetables, eggs, jams, and Turkish bread.
Turkish tea is always served.
Lunch (Öğle Yemeği) is often a lighter meal like kebabs or soup. Dinner (Akşam Yemeği) is the main meal, starting later, often with mezes followed by a main course.
Meals are usually enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Local cuisine thrives on fresh produce, olive oil, and aromatic spices for balanced flavors.
Options range from fine dining in Fethiye to casual local eateries and street food.
Dining is a central part of Turkish hospitality, with customs emphasizing sharing and a leisurely pace.
For a true taste of local life, visit the Fethiye Tuesday Market. It gives a sensory experience with fresh produce, spices, and local goods.
