Istanbul Travel Guide

Turkish Meze: A Must-Try in Istanbul

By Fred Edward on September 2, 2023

Turkish meze is a delightful assortment of small, flavorful dishes served as appetizers or snacks. These dishes are often enjoyed before the main meal and are meant to tantalize the taste buds with a wide range of flavors and textures. Some common Turkish meze dishes include:

1. Hummus: A creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.

2. Tzatziki: A yogurt-based dip with cucumbers, garlic, and herbs.

3. Babaganoush: Roasted eggplant dip blended with garlic, lemon, and olive oil.

4. Dolma: Stuffed grape leaves or vegetables, often with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices.

5. Simit: A type of sesame-covered bread ring, often served with meze.

6. Köfte: Spiced meatballs, typically made from ground beef or lamb.

7. Sigara Böreği: Thin pastry rolls filled with cheese or minced meat, then deep-fried.

8. Olives and Cheese: Various types of olives and local cheeses are common meze components.

Meze is often enjoyed with friends and family in a social setting, accompanied by Turkish bread and a glass of çay (tea) or rakı (anise-flavored alcoholic beverage). It’s a wonderful way to experience the culinary traditions and hospitality of Turkey.

Best Meze in Beyoğlu: Asmalı Mescit Dürümcü. Address: Asmalı Mescit, Nergis Sk. 2 A, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye