Anatolia’s Rich Appetizer Culture and the Modern Interpretation of Kepos

Anatolia is a massive culinary library carrying the traces of dozens of civilizations. One of the most important elements that make the culinary culture of this geography unique is the tradition of "Ara Sıcak" (warm appetizers), which transforms the table into a feast before the main course. In Anatolia, a warm appetizer is not just about preparing the stomach; it is about reinforcing sharing, conversation, and hospitality.

A Historical and Cultural Heritage: Warm Appetizers

Warm appetizers in Anatolian cuisine were born from the blending of local ingredients through centuries of cultural interaction. From the Ottoman palace kitchens to today’s modern taverns, these flavors have been the most delicious part of social life.

• The Culture of Sharing: A warm plate prepared for a guest is the most sincere way of saying "you are the crown of our heads" in Anatolia.

• The Meeting of Sea and Land: The fusion of seafood with terrestrial ingredients (eggplant, cheese, spices), which developed particularly in port cities, forms the foundation of Kepos’s culinary philosophy today.
  

Anatolian-Inspired Signature Flavors at Kepos

At Kepos Balık Evi, we blend this ancient culture with modern techniques and present it to our guests in Ankara Çayyolu. Here are our most talked-about Anatolian-inspired warm appetizers:

• Sea Bass with Eggplant: The meeting of Anatolia’s indispensable roasted eggplant with the sea’s most elegant sea bass fillets. A true fusion flavor with a rich aroma.

• Crispy Buttered Shrimp: Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside! Cooked with our special spice blend until golden brown, our shrimp offer a classic Anatolian seafood feast.

• Grilled Octopus: Seared on the grill with our master chefs' top-secret marination, the octopus leaves a mark on the palate with its tender texture.

• Calamari Cakes (Köfte): A crispy delicacy that brings seafood together with the traditional "köfte" form, a favorite for everyone from children to gourmets.

• Fish Kokoreç: A modern tavern classic that brings traditional street food flavor to the table with seafood and rich spices.

• "Yaprak" Liver: Thinly sliced and marinated with special spices, this liver adds terrestrial strength to the Rakı table.

For Meat Lovers: Kepos brings Anatolian hospitality to your table not only with seafood but also with Grilled Meatballs and sizzling Beef Sauté prepared from high-quality meats.

The Warm Appetizer Experience at Kepos

For us, an appetizer is not just a plate of food; it is an experience. Privileges awaiting you in Çayyolu Mutlukent, at the heart of Ankara:

• Fresh and Local: We select our ingredients seasonally and in their freshest form.

• Intimate Atmosphere: Enjoy the pleasure of sharing with your loved ones in our VIP rooms by the fireplace or in our spacious main hall.

• Live Music Pleasure: On Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights, the flavor of our appetizers doubles with acoustic melodies.

• Business Dinners and Events: We present this rich culture of Anatolia to your guests in the most professional way for your corporate dinners.
  

Come, Let’s Live This Culture Together!

You are invited to Kepos Balık Evi to taste the thousand-year-old culinary heritage of Anatolia with a modern touch and to meet our warm appetizers prepared with fresh seafood.

📞 Reservation: +90 312 235 67 31 📍 Address: Mutlukent Mah. Angora Bulvarı No: 66, Çayyolu/Ankara 📱 Instagram: kepos_balikevi