Wealin logoWealin
Mediterranean restaurants in Izmir
All Izmir restaurants

Best Mediterranean restaurants in Izmir

2 Mediterranean tables worth the trip in Izmir, Türkiye — what they cost, what to order and how early to book.

Mediterranean menus borrow freely across the sea — olive oil, fish, vegetables, citrus — and tend to be the easiest choice for a mixed table.

In Izmir the Mediterranean list is led by Vino Locale in Urla (MICHELIN Selected, 1100-1700 TRY / 30-50 USD per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Mavra at 500-800 TRY / 15-25 USD is the value pick.

  1. 1.

    Vino Locale

    MICHELIN Selected

    Mediterranean · Urla · 1100-1700 TRY / 30-50 USD

    Ozan Sezer

    Vino Locale, nestled in the vineyards of Urla, emphasizes a 'zero kilometre' approach, showcasing ingredients almost exclusively from local producers and their own garden. The menu changes frequently to reflect seasonal availability, featuring vibrant Mediterranean dishes paired expertly with regional wines. The intimate, rustic charm complements the authentic, flavourful cooking.

    Order: Fresh pasta with local cheeses, Artichoke heart salad

  2. 2.

    Mavra

    Bib Gourmand

    Mediterranean · Çeşme · 500-800 TRY / 15-25 USD

    Mavra, located in Çeşme, brings a delightful Mediterranean perspective to its Bib Gourmand-recognized menu. The restaurant excels in fresh seafood and vibrant vegetable dishes, prepared with a light touch that highlights natural flavours. Its relaxed coastal ambiance makes it a perfect spot for enjoyable, well-priced dining by the sea.

    Order: Grilled octopus, Fresh seasonal fish

Booking a Mediterranean table in Izmir

  • · For MICHELIN-starred or highly acclaimed restaurants, book at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Online reservation platforms are commonly used.
  • · Some high-end establishments may require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit for reservations, particularly for larger groups or peak times. Check their website for specific policies.
  • · Consider trying a restaurant's lunch menu; it often offers a similar culinary experience to dinner but at a more accessible price point. Availability might be easier to secure as well.
  • · Be aware of no-show policies. Many fine dining restaurants will charge a fee for uncancelled reservations, so always inform them if your plans change to avoid charges.

And the local dishes in Izmir

Boyoz

A unique, savory, unleavened pastry, a specialty of Izmir, with Jewish origins. It has a flaky, slightly chewy texture and is often eaten for breakfast with a boiled egg and a glass of Turkish tea. Find the best at Dostlar Fırını in Alsancak.

Kumru

A popular Izmir street food, this sandwich features a special sesame-seed bread filled with sucuk (spicy Turkish sausage), cheese, and tomato, often grilled. It's a satisfying and flavorful local favorite, particularly found in Çeşme and its surrounds, ideal for a quick, hearty meal.

Midye Dolma

Stuffed mussels, a beloved street food snack. Cooked mussels are filled with aromatic rice, pine nuts, and spices, then served with a squeeze of lemon. You'll find vendors selling them from trays throughout the city, especially along busy streets and the Kordon, perfect for a quick, savory bite.

Şevketi Bostan

A flavorful wild thistle dish, typically cooked with lamb or beef and lemon juice. This Aegean specialty highlights the region's rich botanical diversity and traditional cooking methods. It offers a unique, slightly bitter, and earthy taste, often found in traditional Izmir 'esnaf lokantası' (tradesmen's restaurants).

Other cuisines in Izmir

Best Turkish in Izmir

Seven days in Izmir

Pair these Mediterranean tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.

Read the Izmir travel guide