Nestled along the beautiful shores of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, the Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, offers a breathtaking mix of natural beauty and rich history. This picturesque region in southwest Turkey is perfect for those who want to experience warm turquoise waters, rugged mountains, sun-soaked beaches, and a wealth of archaeological wonders.
The Turkish Riviera is steeped in culture and heritage, with stories from ancient times that are as epic as they are mythical. Legend has it that Mark Antony, the famous Roman general, gifted the Turkish Riviera to Cleopatra. The region is also home to two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus in Bodrum and the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus. Bodrum, once known as Halicarnassus, is a coastal gem at the heart of the Turkish Riviera. It has a fascinating history that dates back to prehistoric times and is associated with mythical figures like Heracles. According to the myth, Heracles built the city, including the Mausoleum of Mausolus, as a tribute to his fallen comrade, King Mausolus of Caria.
Beyond its mythical allure, Bodrum and the Turkish Riviera embody the essence of the coveted Mediterranean lifestyle. Here, locals enjoy the gentle sea breeze as they indulge in delicious cuisine made from fresh fruits, vegetables, olive oils, dips, and flatbreads, all part of the healthy and flavorful Mediterranean diet. The relaxed pace of life encourages genuine connections through shared meals, invigorating walks along the coastline, swimming in the crystal-clear waters where the Aegean and Mediterranean meet, and dancing the night away in clubs.
As summer approaches and the Turkish Riviera welcomes sun-seeking visitors, two destinations in Bodrum are eagerly preparing to open their doors. Lucca By the Sea and Lucca Beach, both located in Paradise Bay, offer an unforgettable summer experience with their combination of culinary excellence, captivating design, and Mediterranean charm. Inspired by the renowned Lucca Istanbul brand, these destinations are the ideal choice for discerning international travelers in the Mediterranean.
Lucca By the Sea, located within the luxurious Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum, is a culinary masterpiece that caters to even the most discerning palates. Guests can enjoy award-winning cocktails created by Lucca By the Sea’s famous mixologists while taking in the seaside views from the large deck. The premier chefs, led by Hüseyin Kiliç, use seasonal and local ingredients to create colorful dishes featuring seafood delicacies, wood-fired burrata pizzas, fresh pasta, and more. With its fusion cuisine and guest chefs, Lucca By the Sea offers a delightful blend of international flavors, influenced by cuisines from around the world. The restaurant’s chic ambiance is characterized by light-colored accents, natural stones, and meticulously crafted wooden furniture. Guests can also enjoy the restaurant’s skillfully incorporated pergola system, which creates a connection between the restaurant, the sky, and the sea. Lucca By the Sea can be reached using the buggies provided by the Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum.
Located just a short walk from Lucca By the Sea, Lucca Beach is hailed as the ultimate designer beach by Architectural Digest. This beach version of Lucca Istanbul invites guests to relax, unwind, and enjoy the sun-drenched ambiance. Open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Lucca Beach is a popular destination in Bodrum, where beaches are fewer compared to typical Mediterranean islands. The beach features woven fabrics in burnt orange tones, wooden furniture in natural shades, and a curated selection of contemporary Turkish art. It offers a sophisticated yet relaxed modern atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories. Lucca Beach is also known for its vibrant beach party scene, featuring internationally famous musicians and exclusive parties spun by festival headliners. This season, global DJs like Dixon, Desiree, Pawsa, Palms Trax, and Adam Port are set to perform at Lucca Beach. The beach has also hosted events for luxury design brands like Valentino and Miu Miu.
With the upcoming summer season, Lucca By the Sea and Lucca Beach are introducing new offerings and collaborations to enhance the experience. Lucca By the Sea will continue to delight guests with exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, while Lucca Beach will present a lineup of music events featuring global artists. Additionally, Lucca Beach will showcase Les Benjamins, a highly-coveted Turkish streetwear brand, as well as the renowned jewelry brand Begum Khan and ‘Lucca Goodies’ at the Stores at Lucca Beach. These stores offer a wide variety of products from local artisans, independent Turkish brands, and international designers.
The talented chefs at Lucca Istanbul, the brand’s flagship location in Turkey’s cultural capital, have crafted a fresh and inventive summer menu that goes beyond traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Each dish is meticulously curated to showcase the artistry and creativity of the culinary team.
Cem Mirap, the founder of Lucca, is an accomplished entrepreneur, restaurateur, and prominent figure in the upscale culinary industry. He has expanded his restaurant group over the years, including international pop-ups in popular destinations like Mykonos and Capri. In addition to Lucca, Mirap has also founded renowned establishments such as Cantinery and the Fuudy enterprises, which includes Turkey’s leading luxury restaurant delivery app. Mirap’s achievements have been recognized with various awards, including the Timeout Best Brasserie Award and the Timeout Best Bar Award.
As summer approaches, Lucca By the Sea and Lucca Beach are ready to welcome guests to a world of culinary excellence, captivating design, and Mediterranean bliss. Whether indulging in a culinary journey at Lucca By the Sea or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at Lucca Beach, visitors can expect to create unforgettable memories and experience enchantment. The Lucca brand continues to be a steward for the Mediterranean charm, and we look forward to the delights it brings to Bodrum this summer.
