Review: Deniz Restaurant, Izmir, Turkey

When it comes to seafood, there’s no shortage of restaurants lining the port of Izmir. However, to hear locals and tourists tell it, the only one worth visiting is Deniz. I’m not sure I agree.

The ambience of the restaurant is pleasant, if not extraordinarily special. It’s located right against the sea so the views outside are spectacular and peaceful. Inside, the décor is a little drab and the wait staff didn’t seem particularly enthused to be there, which didn’t do much for the overall mood.

The food itself was fairly good, though priced moderately high, in my opinion. It’s primarily a seafood restaurant, but still offers up chicken and lamb options for those who don’t like fish. The fish is caught that morning so you can be sure it’s fresh.

The meal began with some meze to snack on while I waited for the main course. It was tasty, probably the best part of the meal, though the red wine was lacking in flavor. I had calamari for my main dish and it seemed a bit overcooked on the grill, to be honest.

Overall, while I enjoyed my meal, I can’t say I’m in a hurry to head back. With all the praise heaped on the restaurant by locals and tourists I figure I must’ve come on a rare mediocre day, so it might still be worth a shot.

Deniz Restaurant

Ataturk Caddesi, No: 188/B

Izmir Palas Oteli, Turkey

90 232 464 44 99