We here at MyAegeanCoastInfo want you to have the best possible experience next time you visit our region, and this is can only be done if you sample the three tastes of Turkey: Raki, Mezze and Olive Oil.

Raki, the national drink of Turkey, is an alcoholic, anise flavouredbeverage which is usually consumed in one of two ways: either with cold water which turns the drink white, or straight.  A cube of ice is optional!  With an alcohol percentage of 45 (or, unofficially, anything up to 90), raki is not for the faint of heart, and is often enjoyed alongside a kebab, seafood and…

Mezze is the collective name given to a selection of small dishes traditionally served as appetizers to large seafood and kebab meals.  Typically, Aegean Coast mezze consists of white cheese, melon, hot pepper and walnut paste, auberginesalad, calamari, shrimp, dolma (rice stuffed vine leaves), meatballs, haydari (thick yoghurt with mint) and salad.  Sounds dubious, we know, but once you’ve tried it you’ll understand why we love it!  (N.B. there are numerous other mezzes throughout Turkey which vary according to each region's tastes and traditions).

Olive oil is, arguably, the greatest secret behind the delicious taste and consequent popularity of mezze.  Indeed, Turkey is famed for the production - and consumption - of some of the world’s finest olive oil, obtained from the country’s exquisite olive trees which grow in superb soil conditions.  Turkish olives, especially in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, are grown organically and harvested largely by hand.

The Aegean Coast offers sublime fish , Turkish and localAegean restaurants for visitors to enjoy our country’s unique yet delectable traditional cuisine, so be sure to visit soon!

For more information on the Aegean Coast, please visit MyAegeancoastInfo.com .

Alex Plim, MyDestination.com
February 2011

Information submitted by Mehmet Gozen, The Aegean Coast
October, 2010