Ayhan Mortepe in Muğla, Menteşe: 2 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Muğla Merkez

Must-try foods in Muğla Merkez

• Muğla Köftesi
  Muğla KöftesiA local specialty meatball made without bread or heavy spices, highlighting the pure flavor of high-quality beef. In Emirbeyazıt and the central bazaar (Arasta), it is traditionally served over toasted bread with grilled hot peppers and butter, with 'Köfteci Zafer’in Yeri' being a legendary spot for this dish.
• Çökertme Kebabı
  Çökertme KebabıPerhaps the most iconic dish of the region, featuring thinly sliced, marinated veal or beef served over a bed of matchstick-thin crispy fried potatoes. It is topped with a generous layer of garlic-infused strained yogurt and a drizzle of sizzling tomato-butter sauce.
• Muğla Göce Tarhanası
  Muğla Göce TarhanasıA unique regional soup made from cracked wheat (göce) and yogurt. Unlike the powdered versions found elsewhere in Turkey, Muğla's version is often cooked with sun-dried peppers and cowpeas (börülce), resulting in a chunky, hearty, and slightly tangy winter staple.
• Keşkek
  KeşkekA ceremonial dish of pounded wheat and meat (usually goat or chicken) cooked for hours until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. While traditionally a wedding food, it is a local favorite in Menteşe restaurants like 'Alabi,' often served as a rich, savory side or starter.
• Saraylı Tatlısı
  Saraylı TatlısıA traditional Muğla dessert similar to baklava but shaped into a spiral (burma). It features thin layers of hand-rolled dough filled with local walnuts and soaked in a light syrup; it is a centerpiece of local holiday celebrations and high-end pastry shops like 'Nazar Pastanesi'.
• Sulu Muğla Kebabı
  Sulu Muğla KebabıA 'juicy' style of kebab specific to the city center, often slow-cooked in a tandoor or large pot. It features tender chunks of lamb or beef in a rich, natural broth, typically enjoyed at traditional artisan restaurants (esnaf lokantası) in the historic center.

Trip guide

• About Muğla Merkez
  About Muğla MerkezEmirbeyazıt is a central neighborhood of Muğla’s Menteşe district, situated on a plateau at an altitude of approximately 660 meters. Its historical development is linked to the ancient Carian settlement of Mobolla and the later 13th-century Menteşe Beylik, when the city served as a regional capital.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Emirbeyazıt in Muğla Merkez is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October, when temperatures are a pleasant 20–28°C (68–82°F) and ideal for exploring the historic city center. While the peak summer months of July and August offer vibrant energy.
• Getting around
  Getting around Muğla Merkez

  • Intercity Bus and Shuttle Arrive at Menteşe Otogarı (the main intercity terminal) via major carriers like Pamukkale or Metro. From there, take a local shuttle or municipal bus (MUTTAŞ) to reach the Emirbeyazıt neighborhood in the city center.
  • Local Municipal Bus (Menteşe) Use the extensive local bus network with lines such as 1-14, 1-32, or 1-7. Key stops within or near Emirbeyazıt include Cumhuriyet Meydanı and Atatürk Stadyumu, which are central hubs for navigating the neighborhood.
  • Airport Transfer (HAVAŞ/MUTTAŞ) From Dalaman (DLM) or Milas-Bodrum (BJV) airports, board a HAVAŞ or MUTTAŞ shuttle service destined for Muğla Menteşe. These shuttles typically drop passengers at the central bus station for easy local access.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Carry a small amount of Turkish Lira in cash for local shops and public transport, as smaller vendors in the Menteşe district may not accept international credit cards.
  • Explore the narrow cobblestone streets of the historical center on foot to best experience the traditional Muğla houses and local atmosphere.
  • Use a simple 'Merhaba' (Hello) when entering local establishments to show respect for the community and its hospitality.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Muğla Merkez

  • Traditional Muğla Wedding Food Festival (June 27-28, 2026) showcasing local culinary heritage and customs.
  • Infrastructure and 'Kolejler Bölgesi' (Colleges Area) revitalization, including new street naming honoring local educators.
• Muğla İl Kültür ve Turizm Müdürlüğü↗
  Muğla İl Kültür ve Turizm MüdürlüğüThe official tourism portal for the Menteşe district, managed by the Muğla Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism under the Republic of Türkiye.