Fethiye Food (Meze)

1. What is Meze?

Mezes, essentially appetizers, developed out of the Ottoman Empire. The word meze comes from the Persian word for “taste” or “snack”. Mezes give you the chance to sample a variety of traditional Turkish food and still have room for your main course. Mezes are always served with bread and generally at room temperature, unless they are sıcak mezeler, meaning hot mezes. The types of meze can change regionally, which is why Fethiye has many seafood based mezes. Any restaurant in Fethiye is guaranteed to serve meze, and the fish market or along the seaside lend extra charm to the experience.

2. Kavun Peynir Meze

Some types of meze remain reserved to more specific occasions, such as Kavun Peynir, which is melon and white cheese. People typically enjoy this wonderfully fresh meze paired by the traditional alcoholic beverage, Rakı. With this meze, settle in for a leisurely night of good company and delicious food.

3. Yoghurt Mezes

Other mezes serve as appetizers and later accompany your main meat dish, like the yogurt based mezes. Some are more fresh like haydari (süzme yoghurt, thicker and strained, and fresh herbs) and cacık (süzme yoghurt, cucumber and mint) whereas other can be spicy like the chilli yoghurt. These can last the table a while and be enjoyed spread on bread and later as an extra garnish on the meat dish of your choice.

4. Veggie Mezes

Many of the mezes are fresh salads, though they may not resemble your typical salad. Some are made of roasted red pepper or roasted eggplant. THey place the vegetable on an open flame, charring the skin. They then peel the skin, leaving the soft, smoky filling. This is then pared with olive oil and spices.

You can always get a leafy salad with rocket (arugula) or one called the Çoban Salatası (Shepard’s Salad) akin to a greek salad.

5. Seafood Mezes

Now since you are by the sea, these are simply a must. You can opt for the fried calamari or maybe a nice octopus salad. The seabass olive oil is delectable and there are many more just waiting for you.

The world of mezes is endless and undeniably delicious. With the immense variety, you will most certainly find what you’re looking for. And with Fethiye’s access to local farmers’ produce and local fisherman’s catches, you are all set for a meal bursting with unforgettable flavors.