New Generation Tavern Culture: What is it? What is it not?

What is a new generation tavern? What are the differences between traditional taverns and new generation taverns? In this article, we will answer these questions and make new generation tavern recommendations.

Meyhane 101: What is it? What is not?

Meyhane is a type of restaurant or diner, especially popular in regions such as Turkey, Greece, the Balkans and the Middle East, where alcohol is generally served and often a variety of appetizers are also offered. It is accepted that its name derives from the Persian words "mey" (wine) and "hane" (place, house), meaning "wine place". Taverns are places where social interaction is intense and where you can have fun accompanied by music.

Raki is a popular choice in traditional Turkish taverns. Raki is usually consumed with various appetizers and fish such as white cheese, olives, calamari, octopus and haydari. Taverns generally have a local, friendly and warm atmosphere and often feature live music. Traditional music genres such as Turkish Classical Music and Turkish Folk Music are often played in taverns.

New Generation Meyhane: What is it? What's the difference?

New generation tavern, refers to venues that bring a modern and contemporary interpretation to traditional tavern culture. While preserving the traditional tavern elements, these types of taverns offer a different atmosphere with contemporary gastronomy, modern design and decoration, creative appetizers and food menus.

Here are some basic differences between the “new generation tavern” and the traditional tavern:

Venue Design:

• Traditional Tavern: It is usually more intimate, decorated with wooden furniture, old photographs and classical Turkish motifs.
• New Generation Tavern: It was designed with a modern and stylish decoration approach. Lighting, furniture and atmosphere often create a more sophisticated and modern impression.

Menu:

• Traditional Tavern: Classic appetizers focus on fish and raki.
• New Generation Tavern: In addition to traditional appetizers and dishes, more creative and modern recipes with influences from different cuisines are also included in the menu.

Drink Menu:

• Traditional Tavern: It offers more classic drink options such as beer and wine, especially raki.
• New Generation Tavern: There may be a wider and more diverse selection of drinks, such as cocktails, and a rich drink menu with many local and foreign brands.

Music and Entertainment:

• Traditional Tavern: Traditional music genres such as Turkish Classical Music, Turkish Folk Music and Rebetiko predominate.
• New Generation Tavern: DJ performances can be alternative Turkish music or a wider range of music combining different musical genres.

Service Concept:

• Traditional Tavern: More of a neighborhood tavern atmosphere, with a friendly and warm service approach.
• New Generation Tavern: A more professional service approach can offer extra services such as a reservation system and special events.

New generation taverns generally aim to appeal to a wider audience, such as the younger generation and tourists, making them a dynamic part of city life. However, it can be said that both types of taverns have many advantages and a unique appeal depending on their location.

Discover New Generation Taverns

The number of new generation taverns is increasing rapidly in metropolises such as Istanbul and Ankara. You can get support from listing platforms to follow these places, which are opened every day. For Istanbul, HORECA TREND's “Meyhane" category, and for Ankara, Turkey's largest city guide "Nothing Like AnkaraYou can search on “.

Source: HORECA TREND