What to Eat in Antalya? Local Flavours and Lunch on a Boat
A practical guide to local flavours such as piyaz, hibeş and tandır, where to eat, dining on a terrace in October, and lunch on a boat on the Suluada tour.
When you think of Antalya, the sea and ancient cities come to mind first. But the city's cuisine is also a delightful part of the trip. Tahini, garlic, lemon and olive oil stand out here. Fresh vegetables and the region's fruit also appear often on the table. In this guide you'll find what to try, where to choose to eat, and how to plan your meal in mid-October.
Flavours Unique to Antalya
Alongside the familiar kebabs and pides, look out for regional specialities on the menu. The first that come to mind are:
- Antalya piyazı: Piyaz, a bean salad, is made everywhere. In Antalya, however, it is known in its version served with a tahini and garlic sauce. It is accompanied by egg and onion. It often comes with şiş köfte.
- Hibeş: A meze based on tahini and garlic, eaten with bread. If you're not used to garlicky flavours, order a small portion first.
- Tandır: Meat slow-cooked in an oven is mentioned among the region's local dishes. Not every restaurant prepares it the same way, so check the menu.
- Fresh fruit and citrus: The area around Antalya is full of greenhouses and gardens. You can find seasonal fruit at the markets. Asking the seller what is in season is the easiest way.
- Turkish tea and coffee: They go well at the end of a meal, or on a walking break in Kaleiçi.
If you're trying a dish for the first time, don't hesitate to ask the waiter "which one is the local speciality?" Most establishments will gladly answer this question.
Where to Eat?
Combining three different approaches gives good results.
Evening Meal in Kaleiçi
Restaurants along the historic streets and around the harbour are delightful in terms of views and atmosphere. Check the menu and prices before sitting down. Ask whether a service charge is added separately. Booking may be necessary in the evening.
Local Family-Run Eateries
For lunch, the family-run eateries a little away from the tourist spots are a good choice. You can see the ready dishes in the display and order by pointing. If you don't speak the language, this is the most practical way.
Neighbourhoods Close to the Coast
In coastal districts such as Konyaaltı and Lara there are many options with sea views. After a long day at the sea, you can plan a relaxed dinner in these areas.
Mid-October Dining Plan
In mid-October the days in Antalya can still be warm, while the evenings are cooler. The weather changes from year to year, so check the forecast before you go. Eating outdoors is lovely, but bring a light cardigan for the evening. As the season draws to a close, some businesses may change their opening hours. It's worth finding out whether they are open before you go.
Rather than eating something heavy in the midday heat, start light: meze, salad, grilled fish or chicken. Leaving the heavier meal for the evening makes it easier to get around during the day.
Lunch at Sea: The Suluada Tour
If you'd like to build a meal into your excursion, boat tours are a practical solution. Antalya: Suluada Island Cruise w/Lunch & Hotel Transfer Antalya: Suluada Island Cruise w/Lunch & Hotel Transfer offers hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch on board and a Mediterranean day of around 7.5 hours. Prices start at 55 EUR per person. Swimming stops in the clear turquoise coves are also part of the programme.
Things to keep in mind for a day like this:
- As the meal is served on board, you won't need to look for a restaurant on the shore.
- Menu contents may change. If you have a special diet, let the agency know when booking or before the tour.
- If the sea is choppy, light food and plenty of water help.
- Avoid eating a heavy meal just before a swimming stop.
If You're Staying in Alanya
There is a road distance between Antalya city centre and Alanya, so don't plan to combine the two cities in the same day. If you're staying in Alanya, there is also Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks, which offers lunch on board. This tour, lasting around 4.5 hours, includes transfers, lunch and non-alcoholic drinks. Prices start at 20 EUR per person. Swimming and snorkelling stops are also on the programme. This option is a closer and shorter alternative for those staying in Alanya.
Practical Tips
- Allergies and diet: Clearly state any allergies, such as to peanuts, sesame or gluten. Tahini is widely used in Antalya cuisine, so if you have a sesame allergy, be sure to mention it.
- Spice: Saying "not spicy, please" is often enough.
- Water: Carry water with you in the heat. Choose bottled water for drinking.
- Prices: If there is no price on the menu, ask before ordering.
- Cash and card: Small family-run eateries may not accept cards, so carry a little cash.
- Timing: Local dinner times are flexible in tourist areas, while in local restaurants they are earlier.
Final Word
A good day of eating in Antalya comes together with a simple formula: a light breakfast in the morning, lunch at a local eatery or on a boat at midday, and a slow dinner in Kaleiçi in the evening. Try one or two regional dishes on the menu and don't hesitate to ask questions. If you'd like to add a boat tour to your plans, look through the options in the catalogue and check the dates and times before booking.
