The Delicious Face of Mediterranean Cuisine

Antalya is not only known for its sea, sun, and history, but also for its unique flavors, making it one of Turkey’s top gastronomic destinations. Fresh Mediterranean vegetables, olive oil-based dishes, seafood, and local delicacies turn Antalya into a true food paradise.

In this article, we’ve gathered the most famous Antalya dishes, restaurant recommendations, and local tastes for those wondering “What to eat in Antalya?”

1. Traditional Dishes Unique to Antalya

• ✅ Tahini Piyaz: Antalya-style piyaz is very different from the typical salad. Made with tahini, lemon juice, vinegar, and boiled beans, it's served with a thick sauce—often alongside meatballs.
• ✅ Hibeş: A mezze made from tahini, garlic, lemon, and spices. A staple at dinner tables.
• ✅ Gökçesu Tandır Kebab: A delicious meat dish cooked for hours in a traditional tandır oven, served with lavash and onions.
• ✅ Cretan Paste with Artichokes: A refreshing summer mezze made with olive oil, lemon, and lots of greens.
• ✅ Şilofta (Şılofta): A light, nutritious dessert made with flour, molasses, walnuts, and sesame seeds.

2. Seafood in Antalya: Fresh Flavors

Being a coastal city, Antalya’s cuisine naturally features fresh seafood. The most preferred seafood dishes include:

• Grida fish (Mediterranean sea bass)
• Grilled octopus
• Shrimp casserole
• Fried calamari
• Fish soup

👉 For the best seafood, head to fish restaurants in Lara, Konyaaltı, and Kaleiçi.

3. Street Food and Local Tastes

• Layered börek (Serpme Börek)
• Ayran made with yogurt from the Taurus Highlands
• Bitter orange jam
• Salads with pomegranate molasses
• Kabune pilaf (a dish shared with Burdur but commonly found in Antalya)

4. Antalya Desserts: Refreshing and Light Options

• Pumpkin dessert with walnuts
• Mastic pudding
• Bergamot ice cream
• Orange jam served with pomegranate juice

5. Where to Eat in Antalya?

Popular places to enjoy local Antalya cuisine:

• 7 Mehmet: Traditional flavors with modern presentation
• Piyazcı Sami: The most famous spot for tahini piyaz
• Lara Balık Evi: Fresh seafood
• Seraser Fine Dining: A gourmet experience in Kaleiçi
• Şişçi Ramazan: Affordable and delicious meat dishes