Ankara Nightlife
Although Ankara is quieter in terms of nightlife than Istanbul it is still possible to have a good time in the city. The spring and summer is a time when many bars and cafes open up their terraces and a drink or two of an afternoon or evening can be a delightful experience. Although a large proportion of the country's population are Muslim, Turkey has relatively relaxed drinking laws, meaning it is possible to make merry long in to the night.
The Kizilay part of town is the main area to enjoy a drink, with its parallel streets full of intimate bars with beer gardens. It is also a fine place to enjoy some authentic Turkish cooking.
For a good club to dance the night away in, try the enticingly named Sherlock Holmes. Although the second floor is decked out in authentic English pub memorabilia, the downstairs club is not such a reminder of home and attracts plenty of locals as well as many tourists.
A classier club can be found on Sogutozu Cd. Laila Ankara is widely regarded as the hippest joint in town although prices are a little steep.
There are also plenty of theatrical establishments open to the visitor in Ankara, with ballet, opera and plays all on offer throughout the year. The Ankara Music Festival, which takes place in April and May each year, should not be missed either.
Turkey's capital does, as you might expect, a fine line in kebabs, and you will be tripping over street stalls attempting to entice you with their smells during the course of your stay.
Sit down eateries are also in abundance, with numerous fish restaurants and Iskender establishments, which will serve you up skewered lamb with tomato and yoghurt. Ishkembe restaurants offer tripe soup long in to the night and it is said to be a renowned hangover cure.
For good local fare, try the Korfez Lokantasi on Bayindir Sok in Kizilay. This cheap establishment is popular with the locals, who come for the famous array of mezes (starters). The grilled fish and meat are also excellent.
Bogazici Lokantasi on Denizciler Cad is another eatery populated by residents. Home cooking is again the order of the day at this cheap yet excellent establishment.
If you're heading up at the citadel for the call to prayer during dusk you may also wish to consider the Hisar Kule Restaurant in your plans. Based on Doyran Sok in the grounds of the citadel, it is reasonably priced and affords superb views over the city. A good place for the romantic among you.
Further along the street is the Washington Restaurant, which is based in a 400-year-old building. This excellently priced eatery is wonderfully friendly and is something of an Ankara institution.
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Nightlife and Eating & Drinking
