If you’re visiting Istanbul and looking for a culinary adventure, then you won’t want to miss out on trying mezze. This assortment of small, diverse, and flavorful warm and cold starters is a popular choice in Turkey. While mezze exists in other regions as well, Istanbul is home to a unique class of traditional eateries called meyhanes that specialize in this delicious cuisine. Accompanied by alcoholic beverages, like raki, mezze is a must-try experience in Istanbul. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best meyhanes in the city where you can indulge in an authentic mezze feast.
The Best Places For Mezze in Istanbul
If you’re visiting Istanbul and looking for a culinary adventure, you can’t miss out on trying mezze. Mezze is a meal composed of an assortment of small and diverse warm and cold starters, and it’s a popular choice in Turkey. Istanbul is home to some of the best meyhanes, or traditional eateries specializing in mezze, where you can experience an authentic and delightful mezze experience. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of Istanbul’s more popular meyhanes. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover the best places for mezze in Istanbul.
Meze By Lemon Tree
Meze by Lemon Tree is a small meyhane located opposite the Pera Palace Hotel. This quaint establishment, run by Chef and owner Gençay Üçok, offers a refreshing twist on the traditional concept of mezze. Instead of navigating through long lists of standard dishes, Meze by Lemon Tree focuses on using seasonal ingredients to create innovative combinations of vegetable and seafood starters. The menu is complemented by an impressive selection of wines, allowing you to pair your mezze with the perfect glass. For a unique and unforgettable mezze experience, head to Meze by Lemon Tree at Mesrutiyet Caddesi 83B, Sishane/Beyoglu, Istanbul.
Jash Istanbul
Tucked away in the hip Cihangir neighborhood, Jash Istanbul is a cozy venue that serves Armenian-style variants of traditional Turkish mezze dishes. The interior is adorned with gold-leaf wallpaper, redbrick walls, candles, and chandeliers, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Jash, which means ‘food’ in Armenian, has gained a longstanding reputation for the authenticity of its fare. The menu offers a wide range of fresh salads and hot and cold starters, including the highly recommended yayamin (potato patty) and topik (chickpea and potato mash). Experience the fusion of flavors at Jash Istanbul, located at Cihangir Caddesi 9, Cihangir, Istanbul.
Salkim Meyhanesi
Known as ‘the car-wash meyhane’, Salkim Meyhanesi is a small and unpretentious venue located above a now-defunct car wash. The meyhane is run by a group of brothers from the eastern city of Van, bringing a touch of Anatolian influence to their traditional dishes. At Salkim Meyhanesi, you can expect to enjoy a variety of old-school meze dishes, including pan-fried liver and grilled fish. Pair your mezze with a hefty glass of traditional raki, and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of this hidden gem. Visit Salkim Meyhanesi at Süslü Saksi Sokak 27a, Beyoglu, Istanbul.
Sofyali 9
Sofyali 9 is a popular classic meyhane known for its convivial atmosphere and friendly service. This bustling restaurant is particularly busy on weekends, so booking in advance is essential. The waiters at Sofyali 9 move from table to table, offering trays of cold starters for you to choose from, while hot starters are ordered individually from the menu. With a distinct Aegean influence, the highlights of the menu are often found in the seafood section. Don’t miss out on the grilled octopus, curried fish, and fried calamari. Visit Sofyali 9 and experience the vibrant ambiance of this beloved meyhane.
Duble Meze Bar
Situated atop the Palazzo Donizetti Hotel in Asmalimescit, Duble Meze Bar offers a classy atmosphere with great views over the Golden Horn. This upmarket venue puts a modern twist on classic meyhane dishes, creating a unique and flavorful dining experience. Try their hummus with sautéed mushrooms and roasted peanuts or indulge in their signature savory shrimp ceviche. On Sunday and Monday nights, the place hosts a resident DJ playing lounge Turkish music, setting the stage for a lively evening of dancing and celebration. Discover Duble Meze Bar at Mesrutiyet Caddesi No 85 Palazzo Donizetti, Istanbul.
Bebek Balikcisi
Located in the beautiful neighborhood of Bebek, Bebek Balikcisi is a popular spot for seafood lovers. While not exclusively a meyhane, this restaurant offers a delicious selection of mezze dishes that are worth trying. Enjoy the freshest fish and seafood prepared in various tasty and creative ways. Bebek Balikcisi provides a stunning waterfront location, where you can dine with a view of the Bosphorus. Head to Bebek Balikcisi for a seafood feast and savor the flavors of Istanbul’s coastal cuisine.
Meyhane-i Sef
For an authentic taste of Turkish cuisine, visit Meyhane-i Sef in the lively neighborhood of Nevizade. This bustling meyhane offers a wide variety of meze dishes, ranging from classics like stuffed grape leaves and fried eggplant to more adventurous options like octopus salad. Pair your mezze with a glass of raki, the traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage. With its lively atmosphere and delicious food, Meyhane-i Sef is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the vibrancy of Istanbul’s dining scene.
Seraser Fine Dining
If you’re in search of a more upscale dining experience, Seraser Fine Dining is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of the upscale neighborhood of Nişantaşı, this elegant restaurant offers a refined take on mezze. The menu features a selection of carefully crafted dishes that showcase the best of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. From delicate seafood starters to flavorful vegetable creations, Seraser Fine Dining delivers a dining experience that is both sophisticated and satisfying. Treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary journey at Seraser Fine Dining.
Kantin
Simplicity and quality are the hallmarks of Kantin, a popular meyhane located in the trendy Karaköy neighborhood. The menu features a range of traditional mezze dishes made with the freshest ingredients. The focus here is on allowing the flavors of the ingredients to shine, with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment. Kantin’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its delicious food, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Experience the charm of Kantin and savor the authentic flavors of Istanbul’s culinary heritage.
Ali Ocakbasi
For a taste of traditional Turkish cuisine, head to Ali Ocakbasi. Located in the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, this meyhane boasts a rich heritage and a commitment to preserving age-old culinary traditions. From succulent kebabs to flavorful mezze dishes, Ali Ocakbasi offers a range of mouthwatering options that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. The friendly staff and warm ambiance make dining at Ali Ocakbasi a truly enjoyable experience. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Turkey at this beloved meyhane.
In conclusion, Istanbul is a paradise for food lovers, and its meyhanes offer an authentic and delightful mezze experience. Whether you’re craving traditional dishes or innovative creations, these meyhanes have something for everyone. From the cozy ambiance of Meze By Lemon Tree to the upscale elegance of Seraser Fine Dining, each meyhane offers a unique and memorable dining experience. So, get ready to embark on a culinary journey through Istanbul’s vibrant flavors and discover the best places for mezze in this captivating city.