Raki and Turkish Culture

Raki entered our lives back in the second half of the 1800’s. It began to replace wine in the pubs accompanying the Cilingir tables (dinner tables full of meze). It brought fava, piyaz, feta cheese, and fruits together with it. Of course, it never lacked conversation either…

The songs that are sung at the raki tables are sometimes sad, sometimes happy, and sometimes about nothing at all; the purpose is to just drink raki and talk.

In the old days, drinking raki is seen as the first step into manhood. It’s a proud day for a father when his son can drink raki; afterall it means that his son is a man now. Noone was used to seeing women or young people drink raki.

But, as time passes by, it also keeps up with the times and even the ladies take their place at the Cilingir tables.

Whatever happens, however much the times change, raki stays as an indispensable part of our culture. Along with the Cilingir table and the conversation…

Resource: www.eferaki.com.tr