Safi Meyhane is actually a project sponsored by Yeni Rakı and realised by the Tourism Research Association to protect the meyhane customs that hold an important place in our culture.
The high-ceilinged eatery has a blue-white décor and an impressive collection of old 45 rpm records. Other factors that distinguish it from a traditional meyhane like Karaköy Meyhanesi are the location, the prices and the technologically-innovative elements, like the iPad menus available in four languages.
Crafted by Eyüp Kemal Sevinç, the menu features several options you’ll only find at Safi Meyhane, like the rakı ice cream (8 TL) or skewered mantı (Turkish ravioli stuffed with minced meat, 12 TL). The eggplant-wrapped walnut and tulum cheese is another favourite, as is the tahini soufflé. Other highlights from the menu include quince with olive oil and orange (8 TL), Safi fish börek (served in flaky filo dough, 14 TL) and veal cheek (29 TL). If you want to set up a rakı table at Safi, the set menu of salad, nine meze, three warm plates, a main course of meat or fish and dessert costs 70 TL per person on weekdays (80 TL on the weekends) and includes unlimited Yeni Rakı, beer or wine. And not to worry if you’ve got a car – at Safi, they offer free valet service; all you have to pay for is the parking.