Crabs, fish, meyhane, or a pleasant evening Turkish style!

Raki

Anyone who has been to Turkey knows that the traditional drink - raki (also known as rakı or rakia) has a sacred status. Perhaps it heals, but not the body, but rather the soul. The strong grape-based drink flavored with anise has been given three poetic names corresponding to different stages of acquaintance with raki: "lion's milk" - after a few sips, you should become braver according to legend, "drops of the Danish king" - due to its pharmacy-like taste and aroma, "mad cow's milk" - the horned animal reflected those who did not know limits.

What to Expect

Of course, getting acquainted with raki is impossible without a good dinner and meze (traditional Turkish appetizers): as soon as cheese and fragrant pieces of fresh melon appear on the table, the evening can be considered started! The festive mood will be accompanied by Turkish music performed by a group of musicians and will end with an energetic belly dance show.

• During dinner, I will explain why ice is not added to raki and what şalgam is, discuss the table rules of raki, why it is consumed with fish and special appetizers, and which fish is best to choose for dinner. I will also delve into the history and characteristics of national dishes.
• You will see Eastern belly dancers and get acquainted with ancient songs literally called - music for raki.
• And, of course, you will definitely try a variety of appetizers, both fish and vegetable-based - to suit all tastes: fava (bean puree with dill), pilaki (beans in olive oil), and haydari (yogurt with garlic, mint, and spices). All served on large shared plates. Resisting this gastronomic variety is impossible!
• Far past midnight, the meyhane can turn into a hot party with dancing on the tables - fun! This is a great opportunity for you to meet the Turkish people and their centuries-old entertainment traditions from the inside.