Kocaeli is a dynamic industrial province in northwestern Turkey, straddling the eastern shore of the Marmara Sea and the Gulf of İzmit. Known historically as Nicomedia, it served as capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. Today it balances heavy industry with natural beauty—dense beech forests in Kartepe, pristine Black Sea coves, and a rich layered history from Byzantine to Ottoman eras. Visitors find a city largely bypassed by mass tourism yet rich in genuine Turkish urban life, affordable food, and easy access to Istanbul.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Körfez Balık Restaurant
Popular Turkish seafood restaurant in Kocaeli.
İzmit Köfte Evi
Popular Turkish köfte restaurant in Kocaeli.
Liman Meyhane
Popular Turkish meze and raki restaurant in Kocaeli.
Marina Balık Restaurant
Popular Marmara fine seafood restaurant in Kocaeli.
Gözleme Köy
Popular Village breakfast and gözleme restaurant in Kocaeli.
Hereke Balık Evi
Popular Marmara seafood restaurant in Kocaeli.
Ocakbaşı Ankara
Popular Turkish grill / Kebab restaurant in Kocaeli.
Mangal Sarayı
Popular Turkish BBQ restaurant in Kocaeli.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Turkish
Körfez Balık Restaurant
İzmit Köfte Evi
Liman Meyhane
Ocakbaşı Ankara
Mangal Sarayı
Sabancı Kasabı Et Lokantası
Seafood
Marina Balık Restaurant
Hereke Balık Evi
Derya Balık
Village Breakfast And Gözleme
Gözleme Köy
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |