Made famous by the Turkish TV series 'Ikinci Bahar,' (Second Spring), Ali Haydar is much more than a former show set. A genuine Turkish meyhane, its simple decor is composed of small wooden tables, lace curtains, and light blue doorframes, which all speak of a kind of simplicity and earnest warmth that can only be found in the kitchens of our own family homes. As for the food, it is kebab, as well as fresh meze dishes, that are made expertly and presented to the rakı drinking customers who also spend the later part of their evening singing along to songs recited by the Samatya street musicians.

Recommended Dishes

Şakşuka (fried eggplant cubes in tomato and garlic sauce)

İçli köfte (bulghur balls filled with seasoned minced meat)

Çiğ köfte (pieces of raw meat mixed with herbs and spices)

Every kind of Kebab

Tavuk şiş (chicken shish)

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Ali Haydar: The True Meyhane Experience; by Feride Suzan Yalav

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