Recep Usta
You won't find any local Izmir cuisine at Recep Usta; instead, this restaurant offers up some of southeastern Turkey's best dishes including sac tava, cubed beef or lamb sautéed in a spicy tomato and red pepper sauce in a pan not unlike a wok, and tavuk dolmasi, an entire cooked chicken stuffed with fragrant rice.

Address: 364 Ataturk Caddesi, Alsancak | Telephone: 0232 463 8797 |

Tuzu Biberi
This popular luncheonette on the opposite side of the harbour from the main attractions is worth the ferry ride. The chef specialises in using only quality local ingredients and steps up traditional local fare by adding a twist where you least expect it, like with his pumpkin-stuffed chicken.

Address: 1807/1 Sokak No. 16/C Bostanli Karsiyaka | Telephone: 0232 330 0888 |

Mezzaluna
Dishing up Italian dishes like homemade lasagna and tiramisu, Mezzaluna is one of Izmir's premier international restaurants. Even the simple-sounding spaghetti dishes are made with top-notch ingredients and care. Be sure to call ahead to sit outside with a view of the Aegean and city lights. 

Address: Konak Pier, Ataturk Caddesi | Telephone: 0232 489 6944 |

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On the edge of Konak Pier sits this lovely restaurant specialising in a smorgasboard of cuisine: sushi, ravioli, burgers, you name it, they've got it. The good news is, it's all excellent, and the view over the water can't be beat.

Address: Konak Pier, Ataturk Caddesi | Telephone: 0232 441 5593 |