3 Best Restaurants in Bitez, The Central and Southern Aegean Coast

Authentic Turkish mezes with delicious imaginative twists such as added peach or apple are displayed in the cabinet, where one of the family, Ümmühan, will assist with her infectious pleasure in explaining their dishes. Mains can be meatballs, kebabs, tender meats, liver, mushrooms, or if the fresh fish of the day. All dishes are attentively served at tables tucked into a lovely hidden garden in summer or in cooler weather, in a quaint, Bodrum-style, white one-story house. Local and regional Turkish wines, plus a menu of raki blends are offered to the many local and visiting diners who return to this haven of dining.

A pleasantly old-fashioned eatery popular with locals and tourists alike, this cozy, casual restaurant a short walk back from the beachfront offers a range of Turkish-style grilled meats, plus a smaller selection of appetizers and meze. Tables are along the street front on the corner, or closely arranged inside. Meat portions are small, but quality is high. Mezes are classics, done well. A choice of wine, beer, and raki is served by attentive waiters.

Bright aqua sailcloth shades one of the long-established spots along the Bitez seafront where breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner are served to guests who may be there for a swim, all-day sunbathing, or dinner and drinks. A full Turkish breakfast on the sunny Bitez beach is a delight, particularly in the low seasons. It's not the cheapest but an extensive international and Turkish menu meets most tastes of families and diners, all year around.