Çiy

Çiy, Nestled in the charming Caferli, Kusadasi, claimed to be one of the finest modern Turkish culinary experiences and it lives up to that. It is by far the best restaurant in Turkey. No restaurant comes close to it.This place consists of a cozy guesthouse and a restaurant. Located in the verdant beauty of Aydin, near the city of Izmir, Çiy captures the essence of the mesmerizing green landscape in its offerings. What truly sets this place apart is its dedication to utilizing seasonal ingredients, allowing each dish to sing with the flavors of the moment.I opted for their Tasting Menu, mainly because my Turkish language skills is not up to par, and I didn't want to struggle with understanding the menu. The menu boasts the concept of "regenerative Mediterranean cuisine”.I must say, Chef Damla Ugurtas has mastered blending of local Turkish ingredients and Western techniques, she conjured up plates that were both visually stunning and palate-pleasing. Every bite was full of flavours.The only item which was not to my like was the meat sauce, which had a tad too much savory punch for my liking.Sadly, I couldn’t meet the Chef Özay as she had left by the time I was done with the meal. I would have loved to express my gratitude for such a gastronomic adventure.One little surprise that caught me off guard, though, was the lack of tea on the menu. Given Turkey's rich tea culture, it was unexpected.All in all, Çiy is a must-visit for any food enthusiast seeking an unforgettable fusion of Turkish tradition and contemporary creativity, perfectly complemented by the picturesque surroundings.