Top 3 Places to Eat in Ayvalık

Written by Sebastien Simon, Javier Garcia
08/08/2025
Explore the quaint cobblestone streets of Ayvalık, Türkiye, with vintage architecture.
Hakan Şentürk, Pexels

Ayvalık's local dining scene thrives on its rich Aegean heritage, offering a culinary journey rooted in fresh seafood, olive oil, and traditional Turkish flavors.

1. Teo's Restoran

Cuisine: Aegean and Seafood

Nestled on Cunda Island's shoreline, Teo's Restoran provides a delightful setting with views of both the sea and a lush garden. Specializing in daily fresh fish and traditional Aegean mezes prepared with local olive oil, the focus is on authentic, high-quality ingredients. Expect to find a selection of local herbs and warm appetisers that complement the main seafood dishes. The atmosphere is inviting for both families and couples seeking a classic coastal dining experience.

Price: 800 - 1500 TRY (approx. $25 - $45) per person, depending on fresh fish selection.

Getting There: Located on Cunda Island, it is easily reachable from Ayvalık center by dolmuş (shared minibus) for approximately 30 TRY (~$1 USD). Taxis are also readily available, or one can enjoy a walk across the causeway from Ayvalık.

2. Tik Mustafa's Place

Cuisine: Traditional Turkish Mezes and Meyhane

Situated in the heart of Ayvalık, Tik Mustafa's Place is a quintessential meyhane, celebrated for its extensive selection of fresh, high-quality mezes. The focus here is on shared plates, featuring a variety of Aegean vegetables, seafood mezes like octopus börek, and other traditional Turkish appetisers. The atmosphere is authentically vibrant and social, often with live music, making it a popular choice for groups and those looking to experience local culture. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

Price: 500 - 1000 TRY (approx. $15 - $30) per person, depending on meze selection and drinks.

Getting There: Located centrally in Ayvalık, it is typically within walking distance from most accommodations in the Old Town area.

3. L'arancia Cunda

Cuisine: Modern Aegean with Italian Influence

L'arancia Cunda offers a sophisticated dining experience on Cunda Island, distinguished by its unique blend of local Ayvalık ingredients with refined Italian culinary techniques. The menu is artisanal, featuring dishes crafted from ingredients sourced directly from local producers. The interior boasts a chic design with a warm, inviting ambiance, making it ideal for couples or those seeking a more upscale evening. Expect innovative flavors and presentations of classic Aegean ingredients.

Price: 1500 - 3000+ TRY (approx. $45 - $90+) per person for a multi-course meal.

Getting There: Positioned in the center of Cunda Island, it is easily accessible by walking if staying on Cunda. From Ayvalık, a dolmuş offers transport for approximately 30 TRY (~$1 USD), or a short taxi ride is an option.

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