One of the highlights of cruising in Türkiye is sampling the culinary delights served up at the countries best restaurants. Istanbul is, of course, home to many wonderful eateries, but fine dining and phenomenal food are not only found in the city – many fabulous restaurants also hide in the bays, towns and villages along the coast. Here’s a look at a few of the best restaurants in Türkiye to visit this season.
NOBU AT BODRUM LOFT – NEW FOR THIS SEASON
Credit: Nobu Istanbul
Nobu at Bodrum Loft – Opening June 1st 2022
You may be familiar with Nobu, the famous global restaurant chain run by Robert De Niro and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. The brand’s Japanese-Peruvian cuisine and iconic dishes attract a constant stream of five-star reviews, so a night out at their Istanbul restaurant or new Bodrum Loft location should prove popular with any sushi lovers onboard.
Credit: Nobu Istanbul
Nobu has two locations in Türkiye, one in Istanbul and another opening on June 1st at Bodrum Loft. The Istanbul restaurant is found at The Ritz-Carlton and serves a delicious range of Nobu’s famous dishes in a sleek and contemporary dining space overlooking the Bosphorus.
Credit: Nobu Istanbul
Nobu Bodrum at the Loft also boasts a superb setting and is the ideal stop if you’re cruising the Aegean. Food highlights include the juicy Umami Chilean Sea Bass, Nobu-style brunch with oysters, and salmon sashimi, all beautifully cooked and presented. CONTACT US to add a reservation to your itinerary.
A FEW MORE GREAT RESTAURANTS IN TURKEY
Credit: Da Mario Istanbul
Da Mario, İstinye Park, Istanbul
Da Mario is one of Istanbul’s first Italian restaurants, established in 1993. It’s one of the city’s most popular Italian haunts, and many would agree it serves the best wood-fired pizzas, antipasti and fresh pasta dishes around.
Da Mario serves an impressive menu of Italian classics, some with a modern twist. The Zuppa di Pesce with mussels and prawns is simply divine, the pizzas incredible, and authentic puffy calzone some of the best outside Italy. The salads are fresh and vibrant, using the best in local produce, and the coffees and desserts also hit the spot. Tables at Da Mario are hard to come by, so do make reservations in advance. https://www.damario.com.tr/en/
Credit: Yazz Collective
Yazz Collective, Turunc Bay, Fethiye
The idyllic cove of Turunç near Fethiye is the setting for Yazz Collective, a hidden beach, fine restaurant, and tranquil retreat tucked away from the mainstream crowds and only accessible by yacht.
Credit: Yazz Collective
Yazz Collective is a lovely stop if you’re cruising the Gocek/Fethiye area. Its unique, eco-conscious concept is aimed at passing yachts and the elite. Chic beach-side suites provide accommodation, the cocktails at the bar are incredible, and the restaurant generates fabulous reviews online.
Credit: Yazz Collective
Talented chef Mustafa Otar at Yazz takes his inspiration from nature and serves a simple, well-considered menu of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes and salads using the best seafood and local seasonal ingredients. The location, food and atmosphere are spot-on. https://yazzcollective.com/
Credit: Paper Moon
Paper Moon, Bodrum and Istanbul
For an authentic taste of Italy, head to Paper Moon, a favoured haunt of Türkiye’s high society. You may be familiar with the Paper Moon chain from their acclaimed restaurants in Milan, New York and Doha. Now, you can enjoy their famous cuisine and signature Italian dishes in Türkiye, at their locations at The Loft in Bodrum or in Istanbul.
Paper Moon is so-called after the movie of the same name, and it’s the place to head for all things delicious and Italian. Menu favourites include seafood pappardelle, linguine, pizza, steak and crisp seasonal salads, all expertly cooked and presented with attention and flair. Paper Moon offers a cosy, informal atmosphere sure to hit the spot of anyone who loves Italian cuisine — do book a table in advance. https://www.papermoonrestaurants.com/
Credit: Brava at EDITION
Brava, EDITION, Bodum
A sensational homage to chef Diego Muñoz’s Peruvian roots is assured at Bodrum EDITION’s alfresco restaurant, Brava. Shared platters of saltados and crudos, and perfectly grilled fusion wok dishes are served in a contemporary environment, with a great selection of wine and cocktails to ensure the night flows.
Credit: Brava at EDITION
EDITION is one of Bodrum’s cultural highlights, and the hotel and restaurant often showcase talented local and international artists and designers. Most that visit Brava are impressed, with many guests adding a meal at Brava to their travels in Türkiye. CONTACT US for reservations. https://www.editionhotels.com/bodrum/restaurants-and-bars/brava/
Credit: MA Urla
MA Urla, Urla
We have mentioned OD Urla many times in our lists of great restaurants in Türkiye, and MA Urla is the sister seafood restaurant. Here, Chef Ozman Sezener presents an exciting and modern range of fish and seafood dishes using only the very best in local produce.
The unique ode to the Aegean MA Urla creates is different. There’s a varied menu with several dishes inspired by recipes from local villages, alongside many of the well-loved classics. The focus is on showcasing the quality of the ingredients, all served simply and with flair. Booking suggested. https://maurla.com/
RESERVE A TABLE AT ONE OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN TURKEY
360 Yachting specialises in tailored cruising itineraries and we can arrange a table at all the best restaurants in Türkiye. If you would like us to suggest places to go for a guest or crew night out or to make a reservation at any of the featured restaurants, please CONTACT US.
