What to Eat in Ula?

Muğla, Marmaris Koycegiz Ula, a quiet district stretching between the Mediterranean and Mediterranean coasts, stands out with its peaceful nature, traditional architecture, and warm-hearted people. However, this charming district is not only noteworthy for its greenery and sea; it's also known for its unique cuisine. Olive oil dishes, mezes prepared with fresh herbs, and seafood-flavored dishes transform Ula into a hidden paradise for gastronomy enthusiasts.

For those wondering what to eat in Ula, we've compiled both traditional local favorites and unique flavors that leave a lasting impression on the palate. If you're ready, let's explore our Ula food guide together.

Kekekek

Keşkek is one of the most deeply rooted dishes not only of Ula but of the entire Aegean region. However, the keşkek made in Ula has a more intense flavor because it's made with locally grown wheat and village chicken. Cooked for hours in stone ovens, this dish reaches a porridge-like consistency, making it a staple at wedding and holiday tables.

When served, drizzle with red pepper flakes toasted in hot butter. Both its appearance and aroma whet the appetite, making it hard to put the spoon down.

Where to Eat?

• Ula Central Restaurant: Famous for its traditional presentation and stone oven flavor.
• Turgut Village Table The art of cooking keskek, village style, is kept alive here.

Roasted Tangle

Dishes made from the naturally occurring herbs of Ula form the heart of the local cuisine. Arapsaçı (a type of herb) is one of these herbs. Finely chopped and sautéed in olive oil, Arapsaçı is often served with eggs.

With its unique aroma, you'll notice a faint hint of anise at first bite. Neither meaty nor bland... But once you try it, it's a taste so special you'll want it on your table every time you visit Ula.

Where to Eat?

• Herbmen's House: It only offers local herbal dishes.
• Old Han Restaurant: It is quite assertive in recipes made with seasonal herbs.

Sura

Sura is a traditional meat dish made in Ula and its surrounding areas, especially during Eid al-Adha. Lamb is seasoned with bones and slowly cooked over a long period, usually in a crock pot. Rice, black pepper, and sometimes liver are also added. This makes it both filling and highly aromatic.

The most special aspect of Sura is its culture of sharing; it is served on large trays and everyone sits at the table together.

Where to Eat?

• Yoruk Table: One of the rare places that remains faithful to the local recipe of Sura.
• Çınaraltı Kitchen: A place famous for its homemade sura.

Stuffed zucchini flowers

This dolma, made by stuffing zucchini blossoms picked in the early morning with rice and cooking them in olive oil, is one of the elegant jewels of Ula cuisine. The fresh mint and dill inside the dolma transform the dish into a feast of aromas and flavors.

The secret to this dish is to pick the flower before it opens, so you can find it fresh in the summer.

Where to Eat?

• Village Kitchen: Dolmas made with flowers picked in the morning are served daily.
• Hidden Delights Restaurant: It stands out with its presentation and taste.

Sea Beans

Gathered from the bays near Ula, the sea beans are a favorite, especially among olive oil appetizers. Boiled in water and blended with a garlic-lemon sauce, they make a refreshing and nutritious starter.

In Ula, sea beans are usually the star of the appetizers served before the main course.

Where to Eat?

• Coastal Appetizer: He is assertive about fresh herbs and olive oil dishes.
• Fisherman Ali's Place: The perfect accompaniment to seafood.

Sour Fish

Fish, a staple of the Aegean region, is interpreted differently in Ula. Sour fish is baked in the oven with a special sauce made with lemon, garlic, and olive oil. It's usually made with sea bass or sea bream.

The citrus flavor permeates the fish so beautifully, creating a flavor that's both light and satisfying. It's arguably the most sophisticated seafood in the Ula food guide.

Where to Eat?

• Port Table: Famous for its fish menu and special recipes.
• Kordon Fish House: It offers the most balanced form of sour fish.

Scratchy

Cızlak is a type of village flatbread frequently made in the rural neighborhoods of Ula. A dough made with flour, water, and salt is baked on a sac and is often filled with dregs of cheese, a mixture of herbs, or boiled potatoes.

Served hot and crispy, this delicacy is an essential part of Ula mornings, accompanied by freshly brewed tea.

Where to Eat?

• Village Breakfast Garden: With its traditional presentation and stone oven cooking technique.

Mugla Palace Member

A dessert is a must! Muğla saraylısı, made especially for special occasions in Ula, is made with walnuts sandwiched between thin sheets of phyllo dough, rolled up, and baked. Pouring the syrup over it transforms the dessert into a delicious treat: crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Sarayli, which is less oily and lighter than baklava, has a special place among Ula desserts.

Where to Eat?

• Saraylı Tatlıcıs: The most classic example made with hand-rolled yufka.
• Crab Patisserie: It blends traditional tastes with modern presentation.

Goca Ula Soda

When wondering what to eat in Ula, it's important to consider what to drink. Ula soda is a local beverage dating back to the 1950s. Sweet and lightly lemon-flavored, this soda is perfect for cooling off, especially in the summer months.

Served in a glass bottle, it leaves a taste that will remind you of your childhood at the first sip.

Where to Drink?

• Old Grocery Store: It offers soda in nostalgic packaging.
• Bazaar Coffee House: A chance to sip with the locals.

Ula's natural beauty is reflected in its cuisine. The local people's hard work, along with the contributions of the land and the sea, is palpable in every dish. Ula food guide In this article we present, you will see that everything you taste in this quiet corner of the Aegean is actually a reflection of a culture.

For those who want to explore this beautiful town that impresses with its nature as well as its flavors. Ula Travel Guide For those who want to explore all the region's beauties, we also recommend checking out our articles on Places to Visit in Ula. We wish you a pleasant and enjoyable trip!