At The Efendi Restaurant in Warsaw, at 56A Puławska Street, we don’t just nourish the soul with authentic dishes—we invite you to discover the flavors that have accompanied Turkish gatherings for centuries. One of those is rakı—a unique, anise-flavored spirit that not only warms the body, but sets the tone for the evening. Today, we’d love to tell you more about this remarkable tradition and why you should try it right here with us.

Rakı – What Is It, Really?

Rakı is Turkey’s national alcoholic drink, often nicknamed “lion’s milk” due to its milky-white appearance when mixed with water. Distilled from grapes and infused with anise, rakı has a distinctive, bold flavor like nothing else. At our restaurant, we serve rakı the traditional way—chilled, in special glasses, often accompanied by classic mezze.

On our menu you’ll find:

• Yeni Rakı – the most popular brand, known for its smooth yet rich flavor.

• Tekirdağ Rakısı – considered one of the most refined varieties of rakı in Turkey.

How Is Rakı Enjoyed? Slowly and with Respect

Rakı isn’t a drink you gulp down. It’s a beverage meant to celebrate the moment. In Turkey, it’s most often shared during evening meals—especially those featuring seafood, grilled meats, or mezze. It’s sipped slowly, with conversation, flavor, and emotion.

Traditional rakı etiquette:

• A small, tall glass is essential.

• First, pour the rakı, then add water—typically in a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio.

• Ice? Optional. Purists prefer it without.

• Always with food and company—rakı without mezze is like tea without a teapot.

At The Efendi, we’ve created the perfect atmosphere to enjoy this tradition authentically—with warm lighting, Turkish music, delicious food, and an inviting vibe.

Rakı & Food – Perfect Pairings from The Efendi’s Menu

We understand that a spirit like rakı truly shines when paired with the right dishes. Here are some of our recommended combinations:

• Levrek Izgara – grilled sea bass, lightly seasoned and served with grilled vegetables. The freshness of the fish perfectly balances rakı’s anise note.

• Karides Güveç – shrimp baked with tomatoes, garlic, and cheese. A flavorful partner to rakı.

• Tavuk Şiş – grilled chicken skewers marinated in herbs and spices. Light, yet full of flavor.

• Meze Set – hummus, ezme, muhammara, haydari—classic Turkish starters that pair naturally with rakı.

As they say in Turkey, “rakı opens conversations and flavor.”

Rakı & Atmosphere – More Than Just a Drink

We believe rakı is more than a spirit—it’s an experience. In Turkish culture, drinking rakı is a ritual that brings people together, encourages honest conversation, laughter, reflection, and connection. It’s not a party drink—it’s for evenings you want to remember.

That’s why we focus not only on the quality of the rakı itself, but on the setting—mood lighting, the aroma of the grill, the sounds of Turkish melodies. It all makes a rakı night at The Efendi something truly special.

Not a Fan of Rakı? Explore Regional Flavors from Our Bar

While rakı is a classic and a proud symbol of Turkish tradition, we understand it’s not for everyone. That’s why our drink menu also includes flavorful, authentic alternatives that perfectly match our cuisine.

Here are some great options:

• Wines from Anatolia
  Turkey has an ancient winemaking tradition. We’ve curated a selection of red and white wines from regions like Cappadocia, Thrace, and the Aegean Anatolia. Perfect with our grilled meats, mezze, and cheeses.

  • Kavaklıdere Yakut – semi-dry and fruity, ideal with lamb dishes.

  • Angora – light and citrusy, great with seafood like our Levrek Izgara.

• Efes – Turkey’s Iconic Beer
  If rakı feels too strong and you’re after something cool and refreshing, try Efes Pilsener—Turkey’s most beloved beer. Smooth and lightly hoppy, it pairs wonderfully with grilled wings, skewers, or pide. We serve it chilled, in a classic mug—perfect for summer evenings and casual get-togethers.

• Şalgam – A Bold, Non-Alcoholic Classic
  For those skipping alcohol but seeking bold, regional flavors, we recommend şalgam—a slightly fermented drink made from black carrots and turnips, popular in southern Turkey. Spicy, sour, and refreshing, it’s an excellent pairing with rich grilled dishes.
  You’ll either love it… or need to try it a second time. But it’s worth it—a truly authentic part of Turkish dining culture.

• Cocktails with an Oriental Twist
  Our bar also crafts signature cocktails inspired by Turkish flavors. Think fresh herbs, spices, citrus, hints of pomegranate or rose. Perfect for those who want something creative yet classic.

Whatever you choose—rakı, wine, beer, or a non-alcoholic option—each drink is thoughtfully selected to complement our cuisine and elevate your experience. We don’t just feed you—we help you celebrate. And that’s what we invite you to do, every evening.

From Turkey to Warsaw – A Tradition That Connects

For many of our guests, rakı is their first encounter with Turkish spirits. For others, it brings back memories of holidays on the Bosphorus or dinners with friends in Izmir. We’re proud to be part of those stories and to offer something so special—and still so little known in Poland.

Our restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a place to immerse yourself in culture, feel the atmosphere of a faraway land, and discover how important shared meals truly are.

The Efendi Restaurant in Warsaw – More Than Just Dinner

With us, it’s not just about food or drink—it’s about experience. Our dishes, drinks, and ambiance tell a story you can be part of.
If you want an evening that’s more than just “a meal out,” try rakı, order your favorite mezze, and let the conversation flow.
That’s when the most beautiful memories are made.

We also invite you to follow us on Instagram, where we share snapshots of daily life at The Efendi—photos of rakı with almonds, steaming plates of grilled fish, and of course, our smiling guests. They are, after all, our best advertisement.