Mezedaki

We first knew Mezedaki as a tiny Greek-Turkish meze shop in Bebek, but the two-table restaurant recently relocated to Uniq Istanbul in Maslak, where it boasts an outdoor area fit for group dinners. Mezedaki’s owner Mary Tsevik Simyonidis –  an Istanbullu with Rum origins – is a writer and chef who seeks to keep her native cuisine alive. That being said, Mezedaki’s menu isn’t limited to local flavors like bakaryalo (beer-battered whiting) or the Greek-style mousakka. You’ll also find familiar options like mantı, schnitzel and spaghetti bolognese. This inclusive approach makes Mezedaki a good lunchtime option. Still, our recommendation is to opt for the mezes and olive oil-based dishes while you’re here – in particular the mücver (veggie fritters) and the karides güveç (shrimp casserole).