Side-Turkey.

Side is one of those places where the food is part of the holiday, not just fuel for it. You are on a peninsula in the Manavgat district of Antalya, the Mediterranean on three sides, ancient Roman columns down by the water, and narrow old-town lanes that smell of charcoal and fresh bread by early evening. Eating well here is easy once you know what to look for. This is a practical, honest guide to the dishes worth seeking out, where the food tends to be most genuine, and how to enjoy it like someone who lives nearby rather than a passing tourist.

The dishes you should not leave Side without trying

Turkish food on the Riviera leans generous and social, and Side is no exception. Start your day with a proper Turkish breakfast (kahvalti): a spread of white cheeses, olives, tomato and cucumber, honey, jam, butter, eggs, warm bread and endless tea. It is meant to be lingered over, so do not rush it.

For the main event, the grill is king. Kebabs come in many forms, from skewered lamb and chicken to flatbread-wrapped doner. Sit down with a table of meze first, the little cold and warm starters such as smoky aubergine, yoghurt dips, stuffed vine leaves and seasonal vegetables, and you have the heart of a real Turkish meal.

Testi kebab, gozleme and seafood

If you see testi kebab (pottery kebab) on a menu, order it. It is an Anatolian speciality in which meat and vegetables are slow-cooked inside a sealed clay pot, then the neck is cracked open at your table in a cloud of steam. For something simpler, gozleme is a thin hand-rolled flatbread folded around cheese, spinach or potato and griddled, often by women working the dough in front of you. And because Side sits right on the Mediterranean, fresh fish and seafood are a highlight, best enjoyed simply grilled. Finish with baklava and a Turkish coffee or tea.

Where to eat: old town vs. riverside vs. the markets

The old town is the most atmospheric place to dine, with restaurants tucked among the ruins and along the harbour. It is convenient and beautiful, though the most central, tourist-heavy spots can be pricier, so it is worth wandering a street or two back. For a more local, relaxed feel, the riverside restaurants near Manavgat are popular for fish and long lazy lunches. Eating in nearby Manavgat itself often gives you a more everyday, authentic experience favoured by residents.

Do not overlook the markets. The weekly Side market and the larger Manavgat market are great for snacks, fruit, spices, Turkish delight and olives. Old-town shops sell sweets and spices too, and gentle bargaining is normal and expected in market settings.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Destination food guide (self-guided); for any guided excursion, duration is confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Local food recommendations and dining tips
• Excludes: Meals, drinks and personal spending
• Family Friendly: Yes, Turkish dining is very welcoming to children
• Best Season: Year-round; spring and autumn are pleasant and less crowded
• Difficulty: Easy, suitable for all

Related Excursions

• Things to do in Side
• Antalya tours & excursions
• Alanya day trips
• Belek activities
• Kemer excursions
• More Side travel guides

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the must-try food in Side?

A grilled kebab with meze to start, fresh Mediterranean fish, and testi (pottery) kebab if you can find it. Gozleme and a big Turkish breakfast are also essentials.

Is the food in Side expensive?

It varies. The most central old-town restaurants near the ruins can be pricier, while a street or two back, riverside spots and nearby Manavgat tend to offer better value. Prices change, so check the menu when you sit down.

Can I find seafood in Side?

Yes. Side is on the Mediterranean, so fresh fish and seafood are widely available, especially at riverside and harbour restaurants.

What is testi kebab?

An Anatolian dish of meat and vegetables slow-cooked in a sealed clay pot, which is dramatically broken open at your table to release the aromas.

Where can I buy local food and spices?

The weekly Side market, the larger Manavgat market and old-town shops sell spices, Turkish delight, olives and sweets. Bargaining is normal in markets.

Is Side good for vegetarians?

Yes. Meze, gozleme, fresh salads, stuffed vegetables and many vegetable-based dishes make vegetarian eating straightforward.

Should I book a food-related tour?

If you want a hassle-free experience with hotel pick-up, booking direct with us is the simplest way. Tour details and times are confirmed at booking.

Hungry for the real flavours of Side? Let the Murat Atalay team help you plan your trip and excursions. Book direct via WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com to skip agency and OTA commission and enjoy our best-price guarantee.