How a Rakı Table Is Set: Meze, Ice and Order

Rakı is less a drink than the name of a way of setting a table. Everything from how the glass is filled to the order of the mezes follows a form, and that form exists to slow the meal down. The aim is not to get drunk but to spend three hours at one table.

Filling the glass

A tall narrow glass is used. Rakı goes in first, then water — not the other way round. The ratio is a matter of taste; half and half is the common one. When the water is added the drink turns cloudy: the anise oil does not dissolve in water, and this is the expected result rather than a fault.

Ice is a separate argument. Dropping it into the glass is widespread, but some object, because as it melts it changes the ratio and flattens the anise. The usual compromise is to keep ice in a second glass and use cold water instead.

What sits beside it

A glass of plain water always stands next to the rakı. This is not ceremony but practicality — anise lingers on the palate and water clears it.

The order of the mezes

The table moves from cold to hot and is never hurried. The classic sequence runs like this:

White cheese and melon first. This pair is nearly obligatory; salt and sweetness both meet the anise.

Then the yoghurt mezes. Haydari, atom, mütebbel. Yoghurt softens the palate.

Then the olive oil dishes. Vine leaves, fava, borlotti beans. This is the long stretch of the table and can hold for hours.

Hot starters. Calamari, prawns, börek. The table picks up pace here.

Fish at the end. Grilled or steamed. Fish is the classic partner to rakı; red meat does not suit the character of the table.

Timing

A table like this runs two or three hours, and that is the design rather than a failing. The mezes do not all arrive at once; they are added as the conversation goes on. So if you want to set a rakı table, book early and say you will not be rushing — the kitchen plans differently for it.

How many kinds of rakı are there?

The basic distinction lies in the source of the grape and the anise. Some are produced entirely from fresh grapes and come across softer. Our list carries five; if you do not know where to begin, the service team will suggest one to suit your table.

All of our mezes are on the à la carte page, and the spirits list is on the Drinks Menu.