Top 5 Places to Eat in Antalya

Captivating view of Antalya's coastline with traditional houses, vivid blue sea, and distant mountains.
Ahmet Çığşar, Pexels

Antalya's culinary landscape is a rich tapestry of Turkish traditions and international influences, offering diverse dining experiences for all visitors.

1. 7 Mehmet

Cuisine: Traditional Turkish & Mediterranean

Perched on a hilltop, this legendary restaurant provides sweeping views of Antalya and Konyaaltı Beach, creating a memorable dining backdrop. Guests can explore a comprehensive menu featuring home-style Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, including an impressive selection of mezze and their signature grilled lamb intestines. The ambiance is convivial, often drawing regulars who have frequented the establishment for decades.

Price: High-end: 1,500 - 3,000 TRY+ per person (approx. $40 - $75+ USD)

Getting There: Located outside Kaleiçi in Muratpaşa District, on Dumlupınar Boulevard. A taxi is recommended for ease of access.

2. Seraser Fine Dining Restaurant

Cuisine: International with Ottoman Flair

Nestled within a 300-year-old house in Kaleiçi (Old Town), Seraser provides an upscale dining experience. Guests can choose to dine in a meticulously recreated Mediterranean garden or an ornate indoor dining room adorned with velvet chairs and classical statues. The menu masterfully blends international favorites with subtle Ottoman influences, complemented by a selection of fine wines.

Price: Luxury: 2,500 - 4,000+ TRY per person (approx. $60 - $100+ USD)

Getting There: Situated in Kaleiçi's Tuzcular Mahallesi, Karanlık Street. It is easily accessible by walking from most areas within the Old Town, and is a short walk from Muratpaşa Üç Kapılar and İsmetpaşa tram stops.

3. Ayar Meyhanesi

Cuisine: Seafood & Mediterranean Mezes

Located in the heart of Kaleiçi, Ayar Meyhanesi offers a vibrant atmosphere for enjoying fresh seafood and an extensive selection of Mediterranean mezes. This restaurant is celebrated for its delectable appetizers and fresh catches, often accompanied by live music, making it ideal for a lively evening with engaging conversations.

Price: Mid-range: 1,000 - 2,000 TRY per person (approx. $25 - $50 USD)

Getting There: Found in Kaleiçi, on Kılınçarslan Mahallesi, Hesapçı Sokak. It is within comfortable walking distance of the main Kaleiçi attractions and public transport hubs like Işıklar Cad-1 and İsmetpaşa.

4. Vanilla Restaurant

Cuisine: Modern International & Turkish Fusion

Just a five-minute walk from Hadrian's Gate, Vanilla Restaurant seamlessly blends modern international cuisine with traditional Turkish flavors. The ambiance is chic and inviting, featuring an outdoor fireplace, perfect for a relaxed yet special evening. Guests can anticipate dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients, including options like pumpkin and coconut soup, beef ribs, and dynamite shrimp. The service is consistently attentive.

Price: Mid-range to Upper Mid-range: 1,200 - 2,500 TRY per person (approx. $30 - $60 USD)

Getting There: Located in Kaleiçi, on Kılınçarslan Mahallesi, Zafer Street. It is easily reachable on foot from Hadrian's Gate and other central Old Town landmarks.

5. Street Food & Local Eateries

Cuisine: Authentic Turkish Cheap Eats

Antalya's bustling streets and local markets offer a fantastic array of affordable and authentic Turkish dishes. Must-try options include 'Döner' (seasoned meat cooked on a vertical spit), 'Gözleme' (savory Turkish crepes with various fillings), and 'Pide' (boat-shaped flatbreads topped with meat, cheese, or vegetables). For a truly local experience, seek out 'Midye Dolma' (stuffed mussels) from street vendors or 'Ev Yemekleri' (home-cooking) places for traditional, hearty meals.

Price: Budget-friendly: 100 - 400 TRY per person (approx. $3 - $10 USD)

Getting There: These culinary delights are widely available throughout Antalya, especially in and around Kaleiçi, local markets, and less touristy neighborhoods. They are easily accessible on foot.