17 Best Restaurants in Bodrum: Places To Eat On The Turquoise Coast

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Post author Nicky

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

To help you have the best dining experience in Bodrum, I’ve come up with a list of the best restaurants in Bodrum that I recommend, with local food, Turkish and international options, beach bars, live music, and everything in between.

And then, after I wrote about the food scene in Bodrum, you know what to expect. 

Turkey Travel Blog_Best Places To Eat In Bodrum

Bodrum is one of the most popular resorts in Turkey, and with stunning scenery, translucent sea, and an upmarket vibe, it’s no surprise. It’s also one of the best places in Turkey for gastronomy. With the focus on developing a more sophisticated feel to the town, more and more high-quality chefs have been lured to this location, keen to open restaurants to cater to the masses.

However, Bodrum isn’t all high-end dining; there are plenty of places to find regular street food and international meals, too. It’s just a case of knowing where to look!

During the summer months, you’ll find countless places to eat, mostly by the Aegean Sea, with a stunning view. Some of the highest-quality restaurants require you to reserve a table beforehand, especially from June to September when crowds are at their highest.

However, many restaurants in Bodrum are now open all year around, as this has become a town that many people choose to stay in rather than disappear once the hottest weather has abated.

16 Best Restaurants In Bodrum

Now we know what to expect from Bodrum’s food scene, let’s take a look at the best restaurants to visit during your time in this beautiful coastal town.

1. Limon Café & Restaurant – Right By The Sea

Eskiçeşme, Cafer Paşa Cd. No:11, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla

Breakfast in Istanbul - Delicious traditional turkish breakfast

Limon is one of the best places to enjoy a full Turkish breakfast overlooking the sea, but it’s a great place no matter what the time of day. This restaurant is quite large and has an extensive outdoor seating area that sits in well-looked-after gardens with shady trees.

The overall menu is quite simple, with many different types of meze on offer, kebabs, dolma, and other local fare to choose from. This is a calm and comfortable place to enjoy a meal, and it’s a very romantic area, too; if you can, try to get a table at sunset, as the view is something else entirely.

2. Hoca’nin Yeri – Best Meal On A Budget

Çarşı, 48460 Bodrum/Muğla

Sometimes, you don’t want a full meal, and you want to avoid the regular seafood restaurants that are prevalent in Bodrum. In that case, this simple yet very effective restaurant is a good choice. If you’ve never tried manti, give it a go here; it’s sometimes referred to as Turkish ravioli, but it’s covered in yogurt and tomato sauce – delicious!

This restaurant also serves a range of borek types, which are pretty different from what you see in a regular bakery. These are larger, more filling, and go perfectly with a glass of wine.

Overall, Hoca’nin Yeri is a good choice if you want to save a little cash that particular day and you’re not super-hungry.

3. Memedof – Best Seafood

Eskiçeşme, Neyzen Tevfik Cd. No:176, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla

Without a doubt, Memedof is Bodrum’s most popular restaurant to serve fish, and it sits right on the seafront, with a fantastic view both at sunset and any other time of the day. This is one restaurant that you’ll definitely need to make a reservation for as it’s packed with locals and visitors no matter what the time of year – with good reason.

The meze selection is huge and includes a range of fresh produce that you might not have seen before. The şakşuka is a definite must-try, and the bread is so fresh and springy that you’ll struggle to avoid overeating before your mains. Of course, mains consist primarily of fish, and the menu has many different types to choose from.

Wash it all down with some raki, and you’ve had a very traditional and delicious night.

5. Fenerci Restaurant – Best Sunset

Gümüşlük, Kültür Sk. no: 3/2, 48970 Bodrum/Muğla

Turkey Travel Blog_Best Restaurants In Bodrum_Fenerci Restaurant Gümüşlük
Photo Credit: Fenerci Restaurant Gümüşlük

Located in the stylish Gümüşlük neighborhood of Bodrum, Fenerci is another high-quality seafood location, but it’s a lot more chilled out than Memedof. The interior is relaxing and enjoyable, and the staff are extremely helpful. If you’re not sure which fish to order, ask, and you’ll be given plenty of advice.

This restaurant overlooks the sea, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset with a glass of wine. Definitely try the grilled octopus, which is a local favorite, and give the fresh salads a try, as they’re packed with seasonal produce and have the freshest taste possible.

6. Orfoz – Variety Of Fish Options

Kumbahçe, Zeki Müren Cd. No: 13/1, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla

We’re going heavy on the fish restaurants here, but that’s because many of Bodrum’s restaurants are in that theme. This restaurant is another very popular one with a fantastic location overlooking the sea and an outdoor seating area that feels very romantic.

If you’re not sure which fish to go for, try the tasting platter, which allows you to try a little bit of everything. The menu here is a little different from other seafood restaurants; it is a bit less ‘rustic’ and more experimental; one of the signature dishes is sea snails in wine sauce.

As you might expect, this is another restaurant to reserve a table at.

7. Mimoza Restaurant – Right On The Water

Yalı Mavkii No:104 Gümüşlük, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla

As you sit and enjoy your meal at this high-quality rrestaurant you’ll feel like you’re out at sea; you’re literally right on the edge of the water, feeling like there is nothing around you for miles except water. The restaurant is located in beautiful Gumusluk port, and the vibe is totally serene.

Yes, this is another seafood restaurant, but they do offer other dishes, too. However, if you’re into fish, definitely try the flambe shrimps because the staff bring them directly to your table and cook them in front of you!

Alternatively, you can choose steak, or other meat dishes washed down with a glass of wine from a huge selection. Or, of course, be traditional and drink raki.

8. Maçakızı – Vegetarian Options

Göltürkbükü, Narçiçeği Sokak, 48400 Göltürkbükü Bodrum/Bodrum/Muğla

Turkey Travel Blog_Best Restaurants In Bodrum_Macakizi
Photo Credit: Macakizi

This restaurant could definitely be described as a hidden gem, and because of that, you’ll feel cut off from everything else and totally relaxed in green surroundings. This is an extremely upmarket place to eat, so it’s one for special occasions, but it’s more than worth the extra cash.

The menu is packed with unique dishes, such as a rack of lamb with sun-dried pesto and feta, and there are plenty of choices for vegetarians, too. The wine list is huge, and the cocktail menu offers drinks you’ll probably never see anywhere else.

Overall, this is a must-visit if you want to splash out a little and enjoy a wonderfully unique experience.

9. Café Mandarin – Great Steaks

Gümüşlük, 1135. Sk. No:52 D:3, 48970 Bodrum/Muğla

You’ve no doubt seen pictures of white tables with blue cloths by the sea in Bodrum. Well, that’s precisely what Café Mandarin offers, along with beautiful food too. This is one of the best places to enjoy a Turkish breakfast with a view, and you’ll definitely be full by the size of the selection on offer.

During the evening hours, Café Mandarin offers a chilled-out place to enjoy a few drinks and a light meal with friends or family members. They offer seafood, international choices, and steaks, and all of it is of the highest quality. Of course, the view does a lot to help the experience, too.

10. Hollywood Lounge & Café – Family-Freindly

Gümbet, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla

If you want to avoid seafood and you’re keen to enjoy something a bit more laid-back, head ten minutes away to Gumbet and find Hollywood Lounge & Café, this is an international site that has an extensive menu of dishes you’ll automatically recognize. It’s also a great place to eat with children.

The restaurant offers outdoor seating in a comfortable and relaxing setting. The staff are very friendly and the menu has something for everyone. The steaks here are particularly highly recommended, and the drinks menu has all the regular imported drinks, as well as local options.

11. Hane Ocakbaşı Kebab Salonu – indoor and outdoor seating perfect for a quick bite

Gümbet, Ayaz Cd. No:77 B02, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla

Traditional Turkish Drink Raki, Salgam (Turnip Juice) with Adana Kebab

If you want to give a range of different kebabs a try but you want to go somewhere authentic rather than a tourist restaurant, this place is a great option.

Not only is it somewhere that locals love, but it’s also very tourist-friendly, with English-speaking staff who are more than happy to help you choose the right dish for you. I highly recommend the restaurant.

The portions here are pretty large, so bear that in mind when ordering. You can opt for all the popular types of kebabs, including Adana and Urfa, or you can go for a mixed grill, which will give you a little bit of everything.

This is a very family-friendly place to eat, and there are outdoor areas where you can enjoy the fresh air.

12. Kitchen Bodrum

Dirmil Mahallesi, Balyek Cd. No 5A, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla

Kitchen Bodrum is a Michelin-star restaurant in the heart of Bodrum, offering a high-quality experience for special occasions or simply if you want to splurge. The restaurant is hidden away up a side street, so it’s somewhat of a hidden gem, but it’s a very sparkling one. The presentation of the meals here is second to none and the staff are extremely helpful.

The décor isn’t stuffy or uncomfortable, and you can sit outside, overlooking the sea, with plenty of greenery around you to help you relax. The portion sizes are, as usual for these types of restaurants, relatively small, but the food itself is surprisingly filling. You can also choose from a huge range of different wines and beverages.

13. Sultan Bahçe Restaurant

Umurça, Derviş Görgün Cd. No:43, 48470 Bodrum/Muğla

If you have a vegetarian or a 2024 enthusiast in your group, this is an excellent spot in Bodrum to go. This restaurant offers a little bit of everything, so you’re sure to find something you like, and the outdoor garden setting is really calming. There are open spaces, too, so children can roam safely. Put simply, this is a stylish restaurant, but it’s certainly not stuffy.

The portions here are pretty large, and the steaks are literally massive. If you’re into fish, you’ll find plenty of choices here, but the meze menu is where it really shines; you’ll find things you’ve never heard of before, and they’re made with the freshest produce available.

14. Bamboo House – Chilled Nightlife

Gümbet, Zengin Hüseyin Sk. No:21, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla

Turkey Travel Blog_Best Restaurants In Bodrum_Bamboo House
Photo Credit: Bamboo House

This is another Gumbet restaurant that offers a laid-back dining experience with a mixture of international dishes and authentic Turkish food. You can sit outside and soak up the fresh air with beautiful lighting and comfortable sofas. There is no loud music at this restaurant, which makes it a cozy spot for a chilled-out night.

The service here is fantastic, and people regularly comment on how helpful the waiting staff are when choosing dishes. There is nothing that is too much trouble. The entire restaurant is extremely Instagrammable, and the ambiance will make you want to sit and enjoy a few drinks.

15. Annalivia Restaurant – Pizza Pick

Gümbet, Şakir Esendemir Sk. No:6/B, 48409 Bodrum/Muğla

For a chilled-out meal by the Aegean Sea with family, friends, or a special someone, Annalivia Restaurant ticks all the boxes. Located around 10 minutes away from Bodrum center, in beautiful Gumbet, this is the typical blue and white décor while overlooking the sea; it feels very Mediterranean, and you’ll definitely feel instantly relaxed.

This restaurant offers impressive steaks and large portions. If you want something simpler, such as pizza, the menu also caters to your needs, and it offers a great children’s menu. Despite the fancy vibes, this restaurant is also great value for money, making it ideal for families.

16. Nusr-Et Steakhouse Yalıkavak Marina

Yat Limanı, Çökertme Cd. No:6, 48990 Bodrum/Muğla

Everyone has heard of Salt Bae. Well, this is one of his restaurants, and it’s located in the fancies part of Bodrum. Yes, it’s overpriced, but the food really is exceptional, and if you’re a big meat eater, this is where you’ll want to go. Plus, you get to say you went to Nusr-Et, which is something to tick off your bucket list.

You’ll definitely need to reserve a table to visit this restaurant, and you might get to see a local celebrity! As you walk in, you’ll see cabinets displaying huge chunks of meat, and the menu itself is quite large. Once you’ve finished your meal, you should definitely indulge in the profiterole tower; it’s something you’ll never forget!

17. Orfoz Restaurant – Bodrum City

Kumbahce Mah. Zeki Muren Cad. No:13/1 Zeki Müren Müzesi yani, Bodrum City

The Bozçağa brothers cherish the stunning view of the picturesque bay visible from their restaurant. They have a profound appreciation for the bay’s crystal-clear blue waters and the plentiful fish and seafood it offers. This deep connection to the ocean is evident in every dish they present. From the expertly crafted tuna sashimi with a hint of Oriental essence to the oysters topped with delicate parmesan foam and the masterfully grilled squid, each plate is a testament to their culinary prowess. It’s also highly recommended to explore their carefully curated wine selection, reflecting the owners’ deep passion for fine wines.

For those who prefer plant-based diets, the restaurant provides an array of vegetarian options. Additionally, guests can enjoy their dining experience on the charming terrace, which offers a perfect spot to relish the meal amidst the captivating surroundings.

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Bodrum’s Food Scene

What To Eat In Turkey - Turkish Food - Balik Ekmek

There are no specific foods that hail from Bodrum itself, however it is by the sea, which means there is a big focus on seafood. Countless restaurants offer the freshest catch and many upmarket choices that provide amazing views as you dine on food with fantastic presentation.

But just because there are no specific foods from Bodrum, remember that you’ll find all the usual types of traditional Turkish cuisine, including lahmacun, pide, breakfast, kebabs, guvec, midye, the list goes on.

Bodrum might have a fancy feel to it these days, but you can find street food and doner kebabs very easily. During the summer months, you’ll also find international foods like pizzas and burgers without any problems at all.

Yet, Bodrum town and the countryside around it are home to many small villages where fresh produce, including artichokes, is grown on-site. It’s a great idea to head out into the villages and visit the local markets because you’ll be able to buy traditional olives, olive oil, jams, honey, and cheeses.

Get Your Guide also provides a market visit and cookery class tour, which allows you to visit a local market selling fresh produce with the help of a guide to tell you what is best to purchase and what to avoid. Then, the group will visit the chef’s home to use that produce to create a delicious five-course meal. Of course, you get to eat that meal at the end!

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Restaurants In Bodrum FAQs

BODRUM RESTAURANT FAQS

What types of cuisine can I find in Bodrum?

Bodrum offers a wide range of cuisines to suit various preferences. You can find traditional Turkish cuisine, seafood restaurants, international cuisine, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.

Are there any specific dishes or local specialties that I should try?

Absolutely! When in Bodrum, don’t miss out on trying some local delights such as kebabs, mezes (small appetizers), güveç (Turkish casserole), homemade Turkish pide (similar to pizza), and Turkish pastries like baklava and künefe.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Bodrum?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Bodrum. They offer a diverse selection of plant-based dishes, incorporating fresh local produce. Some recommended options include “Zaika” and “Vida’s Garden.”

Are there any family-friendly restaurants in Bodrum?

Bodrum has numerous family-friendly restaurants where you can enjoy delicious meals with your loved ones. “Kaptan Kadir” and “Nobu Bodrum” are just a couple of recommendations that cater to families, providing a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menus.

Are there any budget-friendly dining options in Bodrum?

Yes, you can find budget-friendly dining options in Bodrum. There are plenty of local eateries, kebab houses, and “lokantas” (traditional Turkish restaurants) that offer delicious meals at affordable prices. Some examples include “Kofteci Ramiz” and “Bella Balık.”

How can I ensure the quality and hygiene of the restaurants in Bodrum?

Bodrum takes food hygiene and quality seriously. To ensure you choose a reputable restaurant, look for places that have high ratings and positive reviews from customers. Additionally, you can ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations.

Are there any rooftop or seaside restaurants in Bodrum?

There are plenty of rooftop and seaside restaurants in Bodrum that offer breathtaking views alongside delicious meals. Check out “Moon Beach Restaurant,” “Bodrum Marina Yacht Club,” or “Scala Restaurant” for a memorable dining experience.

Do restaurants in Bodrum serve alcohol?

Yes, restaurants in Bodrum typically serve alcohol, including traditional Turkish drinks such as “raki.” However, it’s worth noting that some restaurants may have limited alcohol options or be alcohol-free. It’s always best to check in advance if you have specific preferences.

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