Nenehatun Rakıcı

About Nenehatun Rakıcı

Nenehatun Rakıcı is a traditional Turkish meyhane on Nenehatun Caddesi in Gaziosmanpaşa, built around the çilingir sofrası: the long, unhurried table of small plates shared over rakı, the aniseed spirit that gives the place its name. Its Tripadvisor profile describes it as a traditional meyhane running since 2000, and it signs itself simply "Rakıcı" on Instagram. As in a classic meyhane, the meal starts with meze. Rather than handing out a menu, waiters have traditionally brought a tray of cold starters to the table to choose from; diners on Tripadvisor mention smoked salmon, yoghurt-based dips, sun-dried tomatoes, spicy aubergine, cheeses and shrimp with avocado. Hot starters, salads, grilled meat, kebab and fish such as sea bass follow, with fruit plates to finish. Rakı is the drink of choice, though reviewers note a decent wine selection too. Tripadvisor lists it under seafood and Turkish cuisine and as vegetarian friendly. Reviewers also mention a terrace and evenings with live musicians, the convivial atmosphere that makes a meyhane night out. Ordering is easiest with some Turkish or a local companion, and going as a group lets you share more plates. The restaurant's website is being rebuilt; in the meantime it takes reservations by phone on +90 312 436 36 14 or by direct message on Instagram.