A Food Lover’s Guide to Fethiye

Introduction

Fethiye, a stunning coastal town on Turkey’s southwestern coast, is not only famous for its breathtaking landscapes and ancient ruins but also for its vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a fan of fresh seafood, traditional Turkish dishes, or international cuisine, Fethiye offers a culinary experience that caters to every taste. This guide will take you through the best restaurants, street food, must-try dishes, and hidden gems to explore in 2024 and 2025.

Best Traditional Turkish Restaurants in Fethiye

1. Mozaik Bahçe

A charming garden restaurant serving authentic Hatay cuisine. Their meze platter and slow-cooked lamb dishes are a must-try.

2. Arty's Fish and Chips

Blending Turkish and British seafood traditions, this place is perfect for trying freshly caught fish with local flavors.

3. Pasha Kebab

If you want to taste the best kebabs in town, Pasha Kebab is the place to go. Try their Iskender kebab and Adana kebab for an unforgettable meal.

4. Cin Bal

A well-known local gem in Kayaköy, famous for its self-cooked lamb tandır and mezes.

Best Seafood Restaurants in Fethiye

1. Hilmi Fish Restaurant

Located in the Fish Market, Hilmi serves freshly prepared seafood straight from the market stalls. Their grilled calamari and shrimp casserole are top choices.

2. Oztoklu Restaurant

A hidden seafood paradise with stunning views of the marina. Perfect for a romantic dinner with the freshest seafood options.

3. Boğaçhan Balık

This lesser-known spot is a haven for fish lovers. They offer a variety of fish cooked to perfection, paired with local wines.

Best Cafes and Brunch Spots in Fethiye

1. Kukina Caferia

A trendy spot in the old town with delicious homemade pastries, artisan coffee, and organic breakfasts.

2. Cafe Park Teras

Offering panoramic views over the harbor, this cafe serves some of the best Turkish breakfasts in town.

3. Baba Dondurma

Famous for its homemade ice cream, Baba Dondurma is a must-visit on a hot summer day.

Best Street Food & Local Eats

1. Midye Dolma (Stuffed Mussels) - Available at Fethiye Market

A popular Turkish street food, these mussels stuffed with spicy rice and lemon are an addictive snack.

2. Gözleme (Turkish Pancake) - Found at Farmers Markets

A delicious and filling snack, usually stuffed with cheese, potatoes, or spinach, cooked on a griddle.

3. Balık Ekmek (Fish Sandwich) - Along the Marina

Freshly grilled fish served in a sandwich with onions and greens, a must-try for seafood lovers.

Best International Cuisine in Fethiye

1. Carikli Et

A steakhouse with an excellent selection of premium meats and wines, perfect for meat lovers.

2. Address Restaurant & Cafe Bar

Offering a mix of Mediterranean and European flavors, this spot is perfect for international travelers.

3. Mancero Kitchen

A fine-dining option with a focus on fusion cuisine, providing an upscale dining experience.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants

1. Rokka Cafe & Bistro

A cozy spot offering a variety of vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes with fresh, organic ingredients.

2. Pomegranate Cafe

This charming eatery specializes in plant-based meals, homemade smoothies, and nutritious salads.

3. Meğri Restaurant

A mix of traditional Turkish and vegetarian dishes, offering a wide range of meat-free options.

Best Dessert Spots in Fethiye

1. Fethiye Baklavacısı

Known for serving the best baklava in town, made fresh daily.

2. LimonH2O

Famous for their lemon sorbet and creative ice cream flavors.

3. Osmanlı Tatlıcısı

A great place to try traditional Turkish desserts like şekerpare, kazandibi, and sütlaç.

A Food Lover’s 3-Day Itinerary in Fethiye

Day 1: Seafood and Traditional Tastes

• Breakfast: Cafe Park Teras

• Lunch: Hilmi Fish Restaurant (Try their grilled sea bass)

• Afternoon Snack: Baba Dondurma (Pistachio ice cream is a must!)

• Dinner: Cin Bal (Try the lamb tandır)

Day 2: Street Food and Local Markets

• Breakfast: Rokka Cafe (Vegan-friendly Turkish breakfast)

• Lunch: Midye Dolma from Fethiye Market

• Snack: Gözleme from Farmers Market

• Dinner: Mozaik Bahçe (Delicious Hatay mezes and kebabs)

Day 3: International Flavors & Fine Dining

• Breakfast: Kukina Caferia (Homemade pastries and artisan coffee)

• Lunch: Carikli Et (Premium steak experience)

• Dessert: Fethiye Baklavacısı

• Dinner: Mancero Kitchen (Upscale fusion dining)

Tips for Dining in Fethiye

• Reservations: Many popular restaurants fill up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.

• Cash vs. Card: While most places accept credit cards, carrying cash for small vendors is helpful.

• Tipping: A 10-15% tip is standard at restaurants.

• Local Markets: Don’t miss the Tuesday market for fresh produce and street food.

Conclusion

Fethiye is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of traditional Turkish flavors, fresh seafood, international cuisine, and mouth-watering street food. Whether you're indulging in a fine-dining experience or grabbing a quick bite at the local market, the culinary delights of Fethiye will leave you wanting more. Enjoy your food journey through this stunning coastal town!