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

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.

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.