Meyhane Balik — Restaurant in Cliffside Park

Dining at Meyhane Balik is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment you step inside, you are embraced by a warm, authentic ambiance that perfectly captures the spirit of a true meyhane—cozy, inviting, and filled with the aroma of fresh seafood.

The food is simply spectacular. Every dish is a testament to the chef’s mastery and commitment to quality. We began with a selection of mezes that were nothing less than perfection. The smoked mackerel melted in your mouth, bursting with flavor, while the stuffed mussels were delicately spiced and impeccably fresh. The star of the evening was undoubtedly the grilled sea bream—cooked to absolute perfection with a crispy, golden skin and tender, juicy flesh that tasted as if it was caught just moments before being served. Every bite was a celebration of freshness and expertise.

The staff at Meyhane Balik elevates the experience to an entirely new level. Their hospitality is genuine and heartfelt, with an incredible attention to detail that makes you feel like a valued guest from the very first greeting. They are not just servers; they are passionate ambassadors of the restaurant’s culinary philosophy, eagerly sharing recommendations and ensuring that every need is met with grace and warmth.

To say that Meyhane Balik is a must-visit is an understatement. It’s a place where culinary excellence meets unparalleled service, creating an experience that lingers long after the last bite. If you are a seafood lover—or simply someone who appreciates outstanding food and genuine hospitality—this restaurant is nothing short of a masterpiece. I can’t wait to return and indulge again.

Five stars, and...

From the moment I stepped into this serene white-and-blue haven, I felt transported to a sun-soaked coastal village in the Mediterranean. The ambiance is flawless—crisp white walls, cobalt blue accents. But it’s the food that truly captures your soul.The fish was sublime. The anchovies were the best I’ve ever tasted—fresh, delicately brined. But the real crown jewel was the turbot—perfectly fried, it’s juicy and rich, melting on the tongue with each bite. The meze spread is a love letter to the region. The Girit (Cretan meze) is creamy, herby, and addictive. The olive salad bursts with briny depth, and the spicy pepper paste adds a smoky, slow-building heat that balances the freshness of the fish. The hot meze stole the show: crispy fried chips served with a garlic and lemon sauce that I would happily eat by the spoonful. Tangy, bold, and comforting—it’s a humble dish elevated to art. Service is warm and attentive without being intrusive. Every plate arrives like a gift, and the pacing is perfect for a leisurely evening...

Beautiful, cozy, and brand-new Mediterranean restaurant that just opened last week — right next to its sister restaurant, also called Meyhane. I was invited by a friend to celebrate my husband’s birthday.

The service was excellent, and the mezze selection was really good!. There were several dishes I had never tried before — definitely not your typical Turkish mezze. The flavors were more Aegean-inspired, which made everything feel fresh and unique.

One highlight was the semolina cake — absolutely delicious. Another great detail is that they are BOB (bring your own bottle) for rakı, and they’ll provide anything else you need to enjoy it properly.

I’d highly recommend this place if you’re looking for a cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and a truly special...