Tav Airport Hotel Izmir

This spacious family-run restaurant welcomed its first diners in 1955. Today, the third generation is at the helm of what has become a firm favourite with locals, who flock to the large counter to choose their favourite mezze, soups and hot dishes. You can start with the lentil soup made with plenty of vegetables and a robust broth, follow that with some delicately presented spinach with silky yoghurt and fresh mint, and finish off with a delicious sweet and creamy rice pudding. The hearty stews, made in time-honoured tradition, reflect the establishment's long culinary heritage. All these aut

Kemeralti, a maze of streets with a picturesque square, is the heart of Izmir. Aysa, a restaurant full of character, is right at home in this idyllic location. The cold and hot buffet offers a wealth of Bosnian and Ottoman delicacies that you can load up on to your heart's content. For instance, you might start with marinated grape leaves stuffed with a delicious filling of rice and various spices, continue with some lamb stew and finish with some wonderfully moist baklava. NB: Reservations are not accepted, so be sure to arrive in good time!

Each morning, Kemal Özçakar makes his morning rounds to farms in the region to source fresh vegetables, fruit and other wonderful produce. What follows is a carefully crafted surprise menu that never disappoints. Apparent simplicity belies deep and generous flavours: from a velvety fava bean purée with dill and lemon as a mezze, to crisp-fried lamb sweetbreads finished with a touch of oregano, thyme and garlic. Precise cooking meets outstanding seasoning. This centuries-old house with elegant ceilings and an authentic atmosphere is packed with locals every day – a clear sign of quality.

As soon as you are seated in this very spacious and warmly decorated restaurant with its striking modern conservatory, you are served some mezze. This gesture speaks volumes about the generous nature of your hosts. The dishes here – especially the grill specialities – showcase the aromatic depth of traditional Turkish cuisine. Lamb shoulder, oven-roasted and succulent, is infused with spices, paprika and green chilli. A platter of assorted grilled meats is a must. Tea is of course served with a few complimentary desserts, such as fabulous baklava. There is no way that you will still be hungry

The Domaine Lucien Arkas vineyards are well worth a visit. Take some time to stroll among the vines – highly romantic if you have that special someone by your side. The same romantic feeling prevails whether you dine outdoors overlooking the vineyard or indoors with a view of the wine cellar beneath you (bottles are for sale at the entrance). The chef tempts you with unfussy Mediterranean dishes that perfectly complement the quality wines produced here. Charcoal-grilled leg of lamb with a bold lamb jus enriched with mustard, then a wonderfully sweet strawberry magnolia for dessert – honest fla

Located at one of the entrances to the glamorous Istinye Park shopping centre, Esca has a contemporary yet cosy feel – perfect for an intimate dinner for two! The lovely terrace beckons in fine weather. Osman Sezener expresses his passion for Mediterranean cuisine and local produce through an international menu. With options ranging from sushi and gyoza to house-made pasta and succulent lamb chops with a pistachio sauce, every palate is catered for. The tiramisu, with its beautiful balance between the bitterness of the coffee and the creaminess of the mascarpone, has already become a house fav

Take the lift to the ninth floor of Swissôtel and immerse yourself in the elegant setting of Scappi. It's definitely worth trying to secure a spot on the terrace, where you get to take in the views of the bay and the sea – the sunsets are simply divine! But perhaps you would prefer to home in on the action in the partially open kitchen complete with pizza oven. With great skill, the chefs rustle up dishes such as a creamy risotto with barbecued squid, al dente house-made pasta with an aromatic tomato sauce, or freshly caught sea bass with a saffron-infused lime sauce. This is a popular place,