top of page
Search

Meyhanes in North Cyprus: A Complete Guide to the Island’s Most Authentic Dining Experience

  • Dec 10, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Mar 15

A warm, atmospheric North Cyprus meyhane at sunset: wooden tables filled with colourful meze plates, grilled halloumi, fresh herbs, raki glasses catching the light, and traditional musicians playing the saz in the background.

Introduction: What Is a Meyhane?


A meyhane is more than just a restaurant — it’s a cultural experience. Originating from Ottoman traditions, meyhanes are places where food, drink, music, and community come together. In North Cyprus, a meyhane dinner can last for hours, often accompanied by live Turkish or Cypriot music and endless plates of meze.


Whether you're a visitor or a resident, spending an evening at a meyhane is one of the must-do experiences in North Cyprus.



Why Visit a Meyhane in North Cyprus?


North Cyprus meyhanes offer:

  • Authentic local flavours

  • Fresh, homemade meze (cold and hot)

  • Live music including fasıl, Turkish classics, and Cypriot folk

  • Warm Cypriot hospitality

  • Relaxed, social atmosphere perfect for friends, couples, or groups


Meyhanes are known for unhurried service — the idea is to take your time, talk, eat slowly, and enjoy the night.



The Meyhane Experience: What to Expect


1. Endless Meze (Cold & Hot)

A typical meyhane experience begins with at least 15–20 meze dishes, usually served in stages:


Cold Meze (Soğuk Meze)

  • Humus

  • Cacık (tzatziki)

  • Babagannuş

  • Pickled vegetables

  • Tahin

  • Gavurdağı salad

  • Olive and herb dishes


Hot Meze (Sıcak Meze)

  • Hellim (halloumi, grilled or fried)

  • Kalamar (calamari)

  • Sigara böreği

  • Shrimp in garlic

  • Fried liver cubes (Arnavut ciğeri)



2. Main Courses


Although meze steals the show, most meyhanes also offer mains such as:


  • Grilled sea bass or seabream

  • Kebabs

  • Lamb chops

  • Mushroom or halloumi skewers

  • Seasonal fresh fish


Many diners never make it to the mains — the meze is that filling.



3. Raki: The Classic Meyhane Drink


Raki, the anise-flavoured national drink, is the traditional partner to a meyhane meal.


Raki Etiquette:

  • Add cold water first, then ice

  • Sip slowly

  • Pair with seafood mezes

  • Cheers with “Şerefe!”


If raki isn’t your style, you’ll find local wines, Efes beer, and soft drinks.



Prices: How Much Is a Meyhane in North Cyprus?

Prices vary depending on location and whether fish or meat is served.

Type of Meyhane

Typical Price (Per Person)

Standard Meyhane with Meze + Main

500–900 TL

Premium Seafood Meyhane

900–1500 TL

Luxury / Live Music Nights

1500–2500 TL

Most meyhanes include unlimited meze in the price. Drinks are usually extra unless stated.



Best Meyhanes in North Cyprus (Top Recommendations)

Here are some of the most loved meyhanes around the TRNC:


1. Niazi’s Meyhane – Kyrenia

A classic choice offering huge meze portions, excellent kebabs, and professional service.


2. Meyhane Pembe Köşk – Kyrenia

Known for live music nights and a buzzing local crowd.


3. Kebap Evi Meyhane – Famagusta

A favourite for traditional meze and well-priced raki sets.


4. Kemal’ın Yeri – Karşıyaka

Sea-view meyhane with top-quality seafood meze and the famed grilled octopus.


5. Göçmenköy Meyhaneleri – Lefkoşa

An entire neighbourhood filled with lively meyhanes — perfect for bar-hopping meyhane style.


6. Babaçakka Meyhane – Iskele

Family-run, warm atmosphere, generous meze selection.




Tips for First-Time Visitors


  • Book ahead, especially weekends.

  • Arrive hungry — very hungry.

  • The meal is slow and social; don’t rush.

  • Music usually starts after 8:30pm.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for less or more of any meze.

  • Many meyhanes offer vegetarian versions — just ask.



Meyhane vs. Restaurant: What’s the Difference?


A meyhane focuses on:

  • Meze-first dining

  • Long evenings

  • Music + atmosphere

  • Communal dishes

  • Drinks-led experience


Traditional restaurants are more about quick dishes, individual plates, and shorter visits.



Meyhane Culture in North Cyprus


The meyhane tradition is deeply woven into Turkish Cypriot culture.

It’s where:

  • Lifelong friendships are made

  • Families celebrate special occasions

  • Live musicians create the perfect ambience

  • People unwind after busy weeks


The combination of music, raki, meze, and conversation makes meyhanes one of the island’s most beloved social spaces.



Conclusion: A Must-Do Experience in North Cyprus


Visiting a meyhane in North Cyprus is not just about eating — it’s about connecting with the island’s culture, food, and people. Whether you're enjoying endless mezes, a glass of raki, or live Turkish music, a meyhane night is an unforgettable part of life in the TRNC.


If you’re exploring North Cyprus, make sure to add a meyhane night to your itinerary.


Related blog articles:


Comments

bottom of page