10 Places to Eat and Drink in Ephesus
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Ephesus is a city rich in history, known for its ancient sites and monuments. Though it is situated near Izmir, it is quite far from the bustling center of the city. It is located in the Selçuk district.
Top Recommendations for Eating and Drinking in Ephesus
Because of its historical significance, the restaurants and cafes in Ephesus often feature traditional decor or have a historical aesthetic. This is in contrast to the modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere of larger cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir.
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While the cuisine in Ephesus may be similar to that of other cities, the atmosphere and ambiance of the city adds an extra layer of flavor and historical context to the dining experience. In this article, I’ll be sharing some of my top recommendations for places to eat and drink in Ephesus and its surrounding area.
Traditional Dining in Ephesus
With that in mind, let’s dive into my recommendations. I’ve tried to include a diverse range of cuisines on this list.
1. Nama Restaurant:
Located in the heart of Ephesus, Nama Restaurant serves traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of dishes, including meze platters, grilled meats, and seafood.
2. Aya Irini Restaurant:
Aya Irini Restaurant is a traditional Ottoman restaurant located in the city center. The menu features a wide selection of Turkish dishes, such as kebabs, meze platters, and delicious desserts.
3. Keklik Tavern:
Keklik Tavern is a traditional tavern located in the city center. The tavern serves a variety of meze platters and Turkish specialties such as mantı (a type of Turkish dumplings).
4. Sarnıç Restaurant:
Sarnıç Restaurant is located in a traditional Ottoman house, serving Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, including delicious meze platters, seafood and grilled meats.
5. Selçuklu Restaurant:
Selçuklu Restaurant is a family-run restaurant that serves traditional Turkish cuisine. The menu includes a variety of dishes such as kebabs, pide (a type of Turkish pizza), and traditional desserts.
Modern Dining in Ephesus
6. Ephesus Bistro:
Ephesus Bistro is a modern restaurant with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including pastas, seafood, and grilled meats.
7. Ephesus Kebab House:
Ephesus Kebab House is a popular spot for delicious Turkish kebabs. They offer a variety of options, from traditional lamb and chicken kebabs to vegetarian options.
8. Ephesus Pide and Kebab:
As the name suggests, Ephesus Pide and Kebab specializes in pide, a type of Turkish pizza, and kebabs. The restaurant has a casual and friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal.
Drinks and Entertainment in Ephesus
9. Celsus Cafe:
Celsus Cafe is located in the Celsus Library, one of the most famous landmarks of Ephesus. The cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and coffee drinks, making it a perfect spot for a quick bite or a coffee break during your tour of the ancient city.
10. Kale Pub:
Kale Pub is a popular spot for a drink and some live music. They serve a variety of beers, wines and traditional cocktails, as well as a selection of traditional Turkish food.
These are just a few of the many excellent options for dining and drinking in Ephesus. These places offer a range of options for different tastes and budgets, and are all popular among both locals and visitors.