Çukur Meyhane

Classic Turkish songs and meyhane melodies provide a backdrop to conversation. As a regular live performance has not been confirmed, the place is best judged by its meze, rakı and convivial crowd.

Compact seating inside and tables open to the bustle of the street create a relaxed, noisy and authentic Beyoğlu atmosphere. Conversation at the tables and the pace of service shape the experience more than any stage show.

Traditional meze, hot dishes and rakı are served in a small, straightforward setting with the feel of a neighborhood place. Sharing dishes and lingering at the table are central to its classic meyhane experience.

Small groups of friends who can turn a quick meeting in a central location into a long evening around the rakı table are especially at home here.

Comfortable, urban and neat clothes suit a casual meyhane outing around Galatasaray.

Çukur Meyhane sets a local, unpretentious table amidst the tourist crowds surrounding İstiklal Avenue. Standout dishes include warmed bread, fresh-cut fries, fish dumplings, fish kokoreç, oyster mushrooms, and parsley salad. There is a wide variety of mezes, and the pricing is generally considered reasonable compared to similar establishments; the regulars, who often sing along to the radio, add a lively atmosphere. The few negative experiences reported involve un-ordered main courses being served, high service charges, failure to return change, and complaints about frozen shrimp. The menu is impressive, though one should pay attention to the bill.