5 Best Local Restaurants in Kas

Zaika Ocakbasi is where the locals go for a decadent carnivorous feast in Kas. Despite being off-the-beaten-track amid the town’s most labyrinthine streets, the place packs out big time, so rock up early or book well in advance.

The speciality at this traditional ocakbasi (barbeque restaurant) is, of course, the mouthwatering flame-grilled meat. And although the juicy T-bone steaks, tender chicken skewers, and succulent smoked kebabs are among the finest in Kas, it’s the tangy lamb şaşlık that steals the show. You’ll need to order this heavenly creation at least 48 hours in advance because that’s how long it sits marinating in its juices.

Come to Nereid Meyhanesi for the seabass and stay for the meze (Turkish appetizer) in Kas. Either way, you’ll be glad you did as this upmarket spot by the sea serves some of the most exquisite local dishes in town. A posse of immaculately groomed staff dutifully explains the menu to each guest in detail. And just as well, because little-known dishes like lavinya and levrek simit meze are worth a try.

The signature dish, however, is the fish, or seabass to be precise. And as is the custom in these parts, each portion must be accompanied by a potent glass of local raki. Grab a table upstairs in the evening to watch the sunset over the bay.

Hünkâr Ocakbaşı is home to among the best donor kebabs this side of Istanbul. Unconvinced? Just ask the long line of locals that regularly winds its way through the restaurant come lunchtime. Quality ingredients like toasted spicy beef, fresh leafy salads, and a drizzling of artisanal yoghurt have seen these beautiful kebabs become a local institution.

If you’ve had enough doners during your visit to Kas and fancy a dish instead, rest assured Hünkâr Ocakbaşı has plenty of scrumptious options to choose from – try the tavuk şiş (Turkish chicken kebab) served with salad and rice. It’s an unassuming place that’s incredibly well-priced in Kas considering the quality of the cuisine.