Marmaris is a popular tourist destination located in the southwestern coast of Turkey. With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, it’s no wonder that Marmaris attracts millions of visitors every year. But did you know that Marmaris is also a food lover’s paradise? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the gastronomy scene in Marmaris, what to eat, and the best places to eat.
What to Expect?
Eating out in Marmaris is fantastic. Holidaymakers are able to find variety of dining opportunities in Marmaris. Eating out along the lined-up cafes and restaurants by the sea front and marina area is one of the greatest attractions. We can say that whole Marmaris is full of quality restaurants and cafes.
Turkish cuisine is known for its diverse flavors and spices, and Marmaris is no exception. Marmaris is home to many restaurants that serve traditional Turkish dishes as well as international cuisine.
Where to Eat?
Most Marmaris restaurants and cafes are located by the sea front, harbour and the Marmaris Castle area. English food is very common in every cafes and restaurants together with Turkish, Mediterranean etc.
Netsel Marina region is very ideal for a romantic dinner with its calm scenery and luxury restaurants.
There are live music and cafe-bar opportunities for the couples or groups after dinner as well.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Whether you want to spend your entire holiday dining on steak or chips or fancy something traditionally Turkish, you’ll find this and all manner of other cuisines in this highly developed holiday resort.
Best Areas & Zones
Marmaris Marina
The Marina is one of the most popular areas for tourists and locals alike. It is known for its beautiful views and luxury dining options. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine.
Uzunyali Beach
This area is known for its casual beachside restaurants and cafes. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful views of the Mediterranean.
Bar Street
This street is the heart of Marmaris nightlife and is home to many bars and restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal before hitting the town for a night of fun.
Marmaris Castle
The castle is a historical landmark and offers stunning views of the harbor. There are several restaurants located inside the castle walls, offering a unique dining experience.
Icmeler
This neighboring resort town has a variety of restaurants offering traditional Turkish cuisine, as well as international options. It’s a great place to venture out of Marmaris and try something new.
What to Eat? Turkish Cuisine
You can also choose from a wide range of Turkish mezes, kebabs, dishes based on aubergine and meat and world-famous Turkish sweets such as baklava and Turkish delight at the many Turkish restaurants and taverns.
Turkish food is largely based on that of the Ottoman Empire which remained powerful from the 13th to the 19th century. Influences of Persian, Central Asian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Caucasian and Balkan cuisines can be found in the melting pot of different cultures which is Turkish cuisine.
Common ingredients in Turkish food include lamb, chickpeas, aubergines, olive oil, yogurt, cheese, rice, pastry, spinach, potatoes, bread, tomatoes and spices and herbs such as cumin, paprika, mint and thyme.
Popular starters (mezes) include hummus (a chickpea dip), dolma (vine leaves, peppers, pumpkin or aubergines stuffed with rice and/or meat), Börek (thin layers of dough stuffed with meat, cheese and vegetables) and cacik (cucumber with yogurt, dried mint and olive oil).
Popular main dishes include Kuzu Güveç (lamb casserole), olive oil-drizzled lamb kebabs, köfte (meatballs made from minced meat, parsley, bread-egg, onion and spices such as cumin, oregano, mint, garlic and pepper.
Vegetarian dishes include fried aubergine and pepper served with yogurt and garlic, Rice pilaf (rice with white beans, lentils, chickpeas, black-eyed peas and vegetables) and Mücver (grated courgette/squash with egg, onion, dill and cheese, fried or oven cooked).
Famous Turkish sweets include Turkish delight, baklava (pistachios or walnuts sweetened and wrapped in sweet pastry), lokma (fried dough dipped in syrup) and helva (made from sautéed semolina, pine nuts, butter, sugar and milk).
Where to Eat Cheap?
If you eat where the locals eat, than it is cheaper. You can keep it cheap and tasty at the many fast food restaurants which serve everything from burgers to kebabs, or have a pie or pasty at one of the British pubs.
Conclusion
Marmaris has a diverse gastronomy scene that caters to every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for traditional Turkish dishes or international cuisine, you’ll find plenty of options in Marmaris. So, make sure to try some of the must-try dishes and visit the best places to eat for a memorable culinary experience.