Meze are found throughout the Middle
East and Mediterranean, albeit under
different names or forms. The fashion
is believed to have spread from the
Sultan’s court in Istanbul at the height
of the Ottoman empire.
ISTANBUL
Sofyalı 9 inexpensive
Sofyalı Sokak 9, Tünel; +90 212 245 0362
In an area famous for its meyhanes (taverns), this
is one of Istanbul’s best, serving superb meze and
traditional Anatolian cooking in attractive surroundings
and a warm, vibrant, and buzzing atmosphere. Try
the specialty, arnavut ciğeri (fried lamb liver).