Meze in Turkey: A Culinary Journey of Small Plates

Meze, a collection of small dishes served as appetizers or a full meal, is a cornerstone of Turkish cuisine. These flavorful plates are perfect for sharing and offer a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Turkey. In this guide, we explore the best places to enjoy meze, its history, and the different varieties you can savor.

History of Meze in Turkey

Meze has a long history in Turkey, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. It was traditionally served in taverns and meyhanes (Turkish pubs) alongside raki, an anise-flavored spirit. Today, meze is a symbol of Turkish hospitality and is enjoyed in homes, restaurants, and special occasions.

• Ottoman Origins – Meze was popularized in the Ottoman Empire, where it was served in taverns and meyhanes.
• Regional Variations – Different regions in Turkey have their unique meze dishes, such as Aegean olive oil-based meze and southeastern spicy meze.
• Cultural Significance – Meze is often served during social gatherings, celebrations, and family meals.

Types of Meze in Turkey

Meze comes in many varieties, each with its unique flavors and ingredients. Here are some of the most popular types:

• Haydari – A thick yogurt-based dip with garlic, dill, and mint.
• Acılı Ezme – A spicy tomato and pepper dip, often served with bread.
• Patlıcan Salatası – A smoky eggplant salad, mixed with garlic, yogurt, and olive oil.
• Zeytinyağlı Dolma – Stuffed vegetables like grape leaves, peppers, or zucchini, cooked in olive oil.
• Midye Dolma – Stuffed mussels filled with spiced rice, often served as street food.
• Cacık – A refreshing yogurt and cucumber dip, similar to tzatziki.

Best Places to Try Meze in Turkey

While meze is enjoyed throughout Turkey, certain cities and regions are renowned for their exceptional quality. Here are the top destinations for meze lovers:

• Istanbul – The city offers a wide range of meze restaurants, from traditional meyhanes to modern eateries.
• Aegean Coast – Known for its olive oil-based meze, the Aegean region is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
• Gaziantep – Famous for its rich and spicy meze dishes, Gaziantep is a culinary hotspot.
• Antalya – The Mediterranean city offers fresh seafood meze and traditional Turkish flavors.

Top Meze Restaurants in Turkey

Here are some of the most famous meze restaurants in Turkey, known for their high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes:

• Asmalı Cavit (Istanbul) – A historic meyhane offering a wide variety of meze and live music.
• Meze by Lemon Tree (Istanbul) – A modern restaurant with a creative twist on traditional meze.
• Zeytinli Kahve (Aegean Coast) – A charming restaurant known for its olive oil-based meze and fresh seafood.
• İmam Çağdaş (Gaziantep) – A renowned restaurant offering rich and spicy meze dishes.

Tips for Enjoying Meze in Turkey

To make the most of your meze experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Pair with Raki – Meze is traditionally enjoyed with raki, Turkey's national drink.
• Try Different Varieties – Don't limit yourself to one type of meze; explore the different flavors and textures.
• Visit Local Markets – Many meze restaurants source their ingredients from local markets, so explore these markets for a deeper culinary experience.
• Ask for Recommendations – Locals are often the best source of information about where to find the best meze.

Best Time to Visit for Meze Lovers

Turkey is a year-round destination for meze lovers, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring restaurants and outdoor markets, while summer is ideal for enjoying fresh seafood meze by the coast.

Getting Around for Meze Tours

Turkey's cities are well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore meze restaurants and markets. Consider joining a guided food tour for a curated culinary experience.

Nightlife and Meze Culture

In addition to meze, Turkey's nightlife offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. Here are some experiences to enjoy:

• Turkish Night Shows – Enjoy traditional music, belly dancing, and folk performances while indulging in meze and raki.
• Local Meyhanes – Relax with a plate of meze and a glass of raki at a traditional meyhane.