2 Best Restaurants in The Sea of Marmara and the North Aegean, Turkey

The best thing about this restaurant is its setting in a 150-year-old Greek building that's surrounded by estate-like grounds in a tranquil part of town. The food is nothing spectacular, but the large outdoor terrace area has views of the Acropolis and Red Basilica, making it a romantic spot for an evening meal. Good, if unsurprising, mezes, kebabs (only meat, no chicken), and steaks are on the menu, it's licensed to serve alcohol, and prices are more reasonable than the somewhat formal interior and serious service may imply.

The location, in the covered market by Ulu Cami, is charming, and köfte (meatballs) is the thing to order, served with grilled peppers and tomatoes. Among the salad options, piyaz (bean salad with vinegar) accompanies köfte best. The soups are delicious, and there are also grilled meat options. The restaurant has the same architectural features as the hans, with brick and stone walls and two domes in the ceilings painted in floral patterns. The place closes at 8 pm.