The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Çeşme and Alaçatı
If the allure of a Mediterranean paradise calls to you, envision yourself in Çeşme and Alaçatı, Turkey’s gems along the Aegean coast. These towns epitomise the dreamy blend of sun-kissed beaches and culinary excellence, now celebrated by travellers and epicureans worldwide. From the golden sands of Ilıca Beach to the flavourful bursts of local Aegean dishes, every moment here promises something memorable.
Nestled on Turkey’s stunning Aegean coast, Çeşme captivates visitors not only with its pristine beaches but also through its architectural beauty. The town is dotted with charming, traditional houses that reflect a rich historical tapestry blending Ottoman and Greek influences. These typical homes, often adorned with wooden accents and bright, inviting colors, stand as a testament to the area’s multicultural past.
Alaçatı: A Stroll Through Culinary History
In Çeşme and its neighbour Alaçatı, the local cuisine offers an authentic taste of the Aegean. Dishes here are abundant with unique Aegean herbs, which are a cornerstone of regional flavours. Stroll through any local bazaar, and you'll likely encounter street vendors proudly showcasing their arrays of fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables along with other local delicacies. Among the most celebrated are yaprak sarma.Yaprak sarma consists of grape leaves delicately wrapped around a filling of rice and herbs, often enhanced with pine nuts and currants, offering a blend of subtle sweetness and rich savoury notes. Locals also prepare a similar delicacy using courgette flowers, which are stuffed with a similar flavourful mixture, adding another layer of local tradition to their culinary repertoire.
For a taste of authentic Aegean cuisine, explore our recipes for barbunya pilaki and okra with cherries, two traditional dishes that capture the unique flavours of regional Turkish food: find the barbunya pilaki recipe here and the okra with cherries recipe here.
Yaprak sarma and stuffed courgette flowers.
The fresh bazaars of Çeşme and Alaçatı are not merely markets; they are vibrant exhibitions of the region's agricultural bounty. As you wander through these bustling spaces, you'll be enveloped in a sensory feast of colors, smells, and sounds. The bazaars vary with the seasons, offering a different palette of produce and goods depending on the time of year. In the winter, expect hearty root vegetables and citrus fruits, while summer brings an explosion of figs, olives, and tomatoes.
Alaçatı’s transformation from a quiet windsurfing enclave into a buzzing culinary capital is impressive. Wandering through its cobblestone lanes, you'll feel the history in the air—each stone house and boutique café tells a story. A visit to Asma Yaprağı encapsulates this best. This beloved eatery, set in a restored stone home, crafts its menu daily, reflecting the freshest ingredients available. Imagine savouring hand-picked artichokes and regionally inspired stuffed vine leaves, each dish telling the tale of its origins.
Nearby, hidden among lush gardens, is Kapari Bahçe. This eatery offers a tranquil retreat where the day's end brings inventive dishes such as grilled octopus and seabass ceviche. Dining here under the stars, you'll understand why the place is named after the caper bush—ubiquitous and beloved in local cuisine.
A quintessential experience in Çeşme is a visit to a köşe kahve, or corner coffeehouse. This establishments, often brimming with character, serve as a social hub where locals gather to have breakfast or sip traditional Turkish coffee and engage in lively conversation. The atmosphere here is a direct portal into the daily lives and traditions of the town's residents.
Çeşme: Sun, Sea, and Savoury Delights
Drive a few kilometres and Çeşme welcomes you with open arms. Known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, it's also a haven for seafood lovers. Ferdi Baba, located right in the old town, is a legend. Sitting there, you'll see why locals and visitors alike rave about the seafood meze—a delightful parade of dishes like grilled calamari and rich, garlicky shrimp.
For a day at the beach, OM Paparazzi Beach is the place to be seen. It combines chic relaxation with a spirited atmosphere, where you can unwind on plush loungers or indulge in some sushi right at the water’s edge. The vibe here is effortlessly cool—perfect for a day of sun and socialising.
Ilıca Beach
Ilıca Beach is famed not just for its stunning beauty but for its thermal springs, whose healing properties draw both locals and tourists. The fine white sands and turquoise waters are perfect for a day spent soaking up the sun or floating in the gentle waves, with the occasional dip into the warm spring waters nearby.
Beyond the Beaten Path: Discovering Urla
While Çeşme and Alaçatı offer abundant charms, a short journey to Urla promises a culinary adventure of its own. This burgeoning hotspot is gaining recognition for its Michelin-starred dining and boutique wineries. The local passion for wine-making can be seen in every glass you taste here, making it a must-visit for anyone serious about food and wine. Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Urla in our detailed guide, where you'll find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming boutique vineyards, perfect for complementing your travels to the nearby coastal towns of Çeşme and Alaçatı.
