Bodrum is a charming town on the Turkish coast that is famous for its stunning beaches and rich history. Yet Bodrum’s local food—a mouthwatering blend of flavors based on fresh Mediterranean ingredients prepared in strict accordance with traditional Turkish recipes—makes a Bodrum culinary experience one of the best you can have in Turkey.
Warm hospitality and the ultimate pleasure of sharing a meal with friends and family are the signature of Bodrum meals.
Even the humble locally-grown Bodrum Mandalina (Bodrum Mandarin Orange), a sweet, juicy, refreshing fruit, flavourful Bodrum Figs, both fresh and dried, and a comforting small tulip-shaped glass of Turkish Tea (Çay), a strong black tea are essential parts, but the following list lovingly prepared meals alone are worth the visit to Bodrum.
Mezes (Appetizers)
A collection of small dishes, mezes can include hummus, Shayari (yogurt with herbs), Ezme (spicy tomato and pepper salad), and patlıcan salatası (eggplant salad).
The chance to sample diverse Bodrum flavors is better shared, perhaps with a Raki, a.k.a. “Lion’s milk”—an anise-flavored alcoholic drink, an essential part of the social experience.
Levrek (Sea Bass)
Freshly caught from the Aegean Sea, Levrek, or sea bass, is usually grilled to perfection and seasoned with salt, pepper, and a traditional squeeze of lemon. Fresh fish at a seaside restaurant as the sun sets is one of the best Bodrum experiences.
Ahtapot Salatası (Octopus Salad)
A refreshing and flavorful salad made with tender octopus, fresh herbs, and vegetables, usually dressed with olive oil and lemon juice, Ahtapot Salatası is light, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors. It’s always a popular choice among locals and tourists.
Şiş Kebab (Shish Kebab)
A classic Turkish dish with marinated meat- usually lamb or chicken, skewered and grilled. Şiş Kebab is a succulent, flavorful meal paired with rice or flatbread. Meat lovers get the perfect balance of spices blended with the smoky flavor from the grill.
Alternatively, Çöp Şiş (Mini Shish Kebabs) are smaller versions with bite-sized pieces of the traditional shish kebab and served with a side of vegetables or flatbread.
Its cousin, the Döner Kebab, is thinly sliced meat, typically lamb or chicken, served with vegetables and sauce in a sandwich or wrap. It is the quintessential street food. It is a quick and delicious option for a meal on the go.
You can try a chicken kebab version at home, although it won’t be the same!
Kokoreç
A popular street food featuring seasoned lamb intestines grilled on a skewer in a sandwich or with bread, Kokoreç is an adventurous choice for those looking for a unique Bodrum culinary experience or to try as a snack.
Imam Bayıldı
Imam Bayıldı, made from eggplants stuffed with onions, garlic, and tomatoes and simmered in olive oil, is translated as “the imam fainted.” Showcasing the region’s rich culinary heritage, this traditional staple is a satisfying vegetarian option.
Zeytinyağlı Enginar (Artichokes in Olive Oil)
Artichoke hearts are cooked in olive oil with carrots, peas, and potatoes to produce Zeytinyağlı Enginar, another light dish that’s a healthy but refreshing option for vegetarians and vegans. It is served cold using fresh, local produce in simple Aegean cuisine.
Barbunya Pilaki (Borlotti Beans Stew)
A healthy and delicious dish made from Borlotti beans cooked in olive oil with onions, tomatoes, carrots, and garlic, served cold, nutritious, and flavorful, Barbunya Pilaki is often part of a meze platter.
Try Barbanya Pilaki with local breads like Pide, a Turkish flatbread similar to pizza but with a local twist. Topped with cheese and spinach (or minced meat for non-vegetarians), Pide is baked in a wood-fired oven to crispy perfection. A lighter option, Simit (or Turkish bagel), is a circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds.
Baklava
Künefe
Another dessert unique to Bodrum, Künefe, is a cheese-filled pastry steeped in a sweet syrup and topped with pistachios. The warm-gooey cheese is a delightful base for the interesting textures and flavors.
