DoyDoy

Kalkan is one of those small, sleepy towns which come alive with the tourism. In a small town such as this, where all the local businesses are competing for the clientele, novelty can be a rare thing to come by. Take the restaurants at the harbour. In terms of what they have to offer, a lot of them eventually start merging into each other after a while. It’s a dog-imitate-dog world, and few really make that extra effort to stay ahead of the game. For this reason we’ve been specifically asked not to reveal any details about the menu at this next food-joint. Harder said than done when writing a food-review, but a challenge we rise to with an iron resolve.

DoyDoy is certainly among the effort-making few. They not only serve wholesome grub, they try to maintain a distinct character in the process. There are always some inventive items on the menu. And we appreciate the little details; like those beaded bracelets they’ll tie to your wrist as you’re leaving.

Located on the upper level of the old-town waterfront, the restaurant enjoys great harbour views and a romantic ambience. Seating is outdoors under a wooden canopy. Arabesque lamps lend a subtle, oriental warmth to the décor, which is otherwise simple. And the music varies between chill-out to some classic rock favourites. If you’re in no hurry to eat, you’ll be invited to the bar area upon arrival. Here you can scan the menu at your leisure over a drink on the settees, while polite and attentive service staff prepare your table and make you feel generally welcome.

The menu boasts some delicious mezzes that could pass for a meal in itself, but don’t forgo the mains. If you’re in the mood for red meat, the steaks at DoyDoy are some of the most popular. Our compliments always go out to the chef for his propensity to marry a tender cut of meat with a rich sauce without smotherring the life out of the dish. As for seafood, you’ll find that it’s not only fresh, but beautifully prepared as well. We recommend the calamari, in fact. Go for simple rings or the stuffed variety. Hell, knock yourself out and have both. And if you fancy an after-meal smoke, they’ll serve you up a nice shisha in the lounge are. Kick back and people watch in aid of digestion, as the tide rolls out and the sweet smell of fruit tobacco mixes with the clear sea breeze.