The Rich Meze Culture of Anatolia: A Journey of Flavor Through Time

Anatolian cuisine is a massive treasury carrying the traces of civilizations spanning thousands of years. The most elegant and social reflection of this richness is undoubtedly the Meze tradition. In Anatolian homes and taverns, a meze is not just a dish; it is the most delicious symbol of sharing, long conversations, and deep-rooted friendship. Today, at Kepos Balık Evi in Ankara Çayyolu, we continue to keep this ancient tradition alive with fresh, daily touches.

The Deep History of Mezes in Anatolia

The word "meze" is derived from the Persian word mazzeh, meaning "taste" or "flavor." Mezes are the product of a multicultural heritage stretching from the Seljuks to the Ottoman Palace kitchens, and from bustling port cities to humble village tables.

• From Palace to Tavern: During the Ottoman era, meze varieties reached their peak through Istanbul's cosmopolitan structure, the famous Galata taverns, and the creativity of imperial chefs.

• Geographical Diversity: The olive oil-based herbs of the Aegean, the spicy pastes of the Southeast, and the fresh seafood of the Mediterranean merged to form today’s "Anatolian Meze Culture."
  

From the Kepos Kitchen: Our Most Beloved Meze Varieties

Offering a modern fish restaurant and "Meyhane" experience, here are some of our signature flavors prepared with care every morning at Kepos Balık Evi:

• Deniz Börülcesi (Samphire): A health powerhouse from the Aegean coasts, blended with garlic and extra virgin olive oil.

• Girit Ezme (Cretan Cheese Dip): An indispensable Rakı companion featuring a magnificent harmony of cheese, walnuts, and special herbs.

• Atom: A favorite for spice lovers, consisting of strained yogurt topped with dried Albanian peppers sizzled in butter.

• Köpoğlu: A classic where roasted eggplant and peppers meet a special tomato sauce and creamy yogurt.

• Fava (Broad Bean Puree): A feast of flavor with olive oil and dill, perfected with caramelized onions on top.

• Warm Mezes: Grilled octopus, sizzling buttered shrimp, and Kepos’s famous Fish Kokoreç complete the experience with a warm touch.

"At Kepos, mezes are not just side dishes; they are the main characters of the table. Every plate is prepared with daily, fresh ingredients sourced from their origins."

Meze and Live Music in Çayyolu

Meze reaches its true potential only when combined with the right atmosphere. Kepos Balık Evi offers the meze culture in Ankara with these exclusive privileges:

• Daily Freshness: Frozen products never enter our kitchen. All our mezes are prepared daily by our Head Chef.

• Accompanied by Live Music: On Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights, you can enjoy your mezes alongside Kanun and Guitar performances, featuring 90s Pop and Turkish Classical Music (TSM) classics.

• Extensive Selection: We offer a rich Rakı and wine cellar to provide the perfect pairing for every palate.

• Corporate Events & Business Dinners: With our VIP rooms and spacious hall, we turn your business meetings into a meze banquet.
  

Conclusion: The Art of Socializing

No matter which meze you start with, Anatolian culture teaches you to slow down and savor the moment. We invite you to visit us in Mutlukent, Çayyolu, to discover these unique flavors and live an authentic tavern experience in the heart of Ankara.

📞 Reservation: +90 312 235 67 31

📍 Address: Mutlukent Mah. Angora Bulvarı No: 66, Çayyolu/Ankara

📱 Instagram: kepos_balikevi