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Antalya, a stunning coastal city in Turkey, is not just a feast for the eyes but also a paradise for the taste buds. With its rich culinary heritage, influenced by Mediterranean and Turkish flavours, the city offers a diverse array of dishes that every food lover must try. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the must-try dishes, best local restaurants, street food spots, and vibrant local markets in Antalya.
Must-Try Dishes
Piyaz
What It Is:
Piyaz is a traditional Turkish salad made primarily with white beans, tahini, and garlic, garnished with hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and onions. In Antalya, the version often includes a unique addition of tahini sauce.
Why You Should Try It:
The combination of creamy beans with the tangy and nutty tahini sauce creates a unique and delicious flavour profile that is refreshing and satisfying.
Köfte
What It Is:
Köfte refers to Turkish meatballs, typically made from ground beef or lamb, mixed with spices and herbs. They are usually grilled or fried and served with rice, salad, and pita bread.
Why You Should Try It:
Köfte are a staple in Turkish cuisine, offering a hearty and flavourful meal that is both comforting and rich in spices.
Börek
What It Is:
Börek is a savoury pastry made from thin layers of dough, filled with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, or minced meat. It is baked until golden and crispy.
Why You Should Try It:
The flaky, buttery layers combined with the savoury fillings make börek an irresistible treat, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Best Local Restaurants and Street Food Spots
Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant
Location: Tuzcular, Karanlık Sk. No:18, 07100 Muratpaşa/Antalya
What to Try:
Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
Signature dishes like duck confit and fresh seafood.
Why It’s Great:
Seraser offers an elegant dining experience with impeccable service and a romantic ambiance.
7 Mehmet
Location: Meltem Mah., Dumlupınar Bulv. Atatürk Kültür Parkı No:201, 07030 Muratpaşa Antalya
What to Try:
Traditional Turkish dishes such as lamb shank and stuffed grape leaves.
Desserts like künefe and baklava.
Why It’s Great:
Known for its rich history and panoramic views, 7 Mehmet is a must-visit for authentic Turkish cuisine.
Piyazcı Sami
Location: Pınarbaşı, Hüsnü Karakaş Cd. No:20, 07070 Konyaaltı/Antalya
What to Try:
Specializes in Piyaz, made with the freshest ingredients.
Why It’s Great:
A local favourite for its delicious and authentic piyaz, this spot offers a genuine taste of Antalya.
Street Food Spots
Cumhuriyet Square: Known for a variety of street food vendors offering gözleme (Turkish stuffed flatbreads), corn on the cob, and roasted chestnuts.
Lara Street Market: Offers a range of street foods like dürüm (wraps), simit (Turkish bagel), and freshly squeezed juices.
Local Markets
Antalya Bazaar
Location: Kaleiçi, the historic old town area.
What to Find:
Fresh produce, spices, herbs, and local delicacies.
Handcrafted goods, textiles, and souvenirs.
Why It’s Great:
The vibrant bazaar is a sensory delight, perfect for experiencing local culture and picking up fresh ingredients and unique souvenirs.
Lara Saturday Market (Lara Cumartesi Pazarı)
Location: Güzeloba, Muratpaşa/Antalya
What to Find:
A wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, olives, and nuts.
Local specialties like börek, homemade jams, and Turkish delight.
Why It’s Great:
This market is less touristy, offering an authentic shopping experience where you can interact with local vendors.
Döşemealtı Handicrafts Market
Location: Döşemealtı, Antalya
What to Find:
Traditional Turkish rugs, ceramics, and handmade crafts.
Why It’s Great:
A great place to find unique handmade items and traditional crafts, perfect for gifts or souvenirs.
Additional Tips for Foodies
Culinary Tours
Consider joining a culinary tour to get a deeper understanding of Antalya’s food culture. These tours often include visits to local markets, cooking classes, and food tastings at some of the best restaurants.
Seasonal Delicacies
Spring: Try artichokes and wild herbs.
Summer: Enjoy fresh figs, peaches, and watermelons.
Autumn: Look for pomegranates and quince.
Winter: Indulge in hearty soups and roasted chestnuts.
Local Drinks
Turkish Tea (Çay): A must-try, often served in small tulip-shaped glasses.
Turkish Coffee: Known for its strong flavour and traditional preparation method.
Ayran: A refreshing yogurt-based drink, perfect for hot days.
Pomegranate Juice: Freshly squeezed and packed with flavour, commonly found at street vendors.
Dining Etiquette
It’s customary to leave a small tip (about 10%) at restaurants.
Sharing dishes is common, allowing you to try multiple items.
Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from locals; they often know the best hidden gems.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions | Answers |
What are the best times to visit local markets in Antalya? | Early morning or late afternoon, when the produce is freshest and the markets are less crowded. |
Is it safe to eat street food in Antalya? | Yes, street food in Antalya is generally safe and delicious. Look for busy vendors with high turnover. |
Do restaurants in Antalya accept credit cards? | Most restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s always good to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets. |
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Antalya? | Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Traditional dishes like piyaz and various mezes are usually vegetarian. |
How much should I tip in restaurants? | Tipping around 10% of the total bill is customary in Antalya. |
Are reservations necessary at popular restaurants? | Yes, especially during peak tourist seasons, it’s recommended to make reservations at popular restaurants. |
What are some must-try local desserts? | Try baklava, künefe, and lokum (Turkish delight) for a sweet taste of Antalya. |
Antalya’s culinary scene is a delicious journey through Turkish and Mediterranean flavours. From savouring traditional dishes at local eateries to exploring vibrant markets, every meal in Antalya is an opportunity to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or prefer classic flavours, Antalya offers a gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving more.
