Köy

Expect high-energy on weekends and other market days at Köy. On Friday nights the live Turkish music creates an exotic atmosphere – the packed, dimly lit room hums with conversation and musical rhythm.

The street-side tables are a great spot to watch people go by and a eat traditional breakfast (eggs, peppers, clay pots and bazlama bread). If you're in a rush, step around the tables and order a fresh gözleme (cheese-filled pastry) from an outdoor marquee.

Sitting inside gives you a window into old Turkey. The tableware and furnishings were selected by owners Taylan Aksoy and his father Alan during trips back home. Likewise, the cartoon-ish wall murals hark back to the country's ancient past.

Meze includes Turkish spring rolls filled with feta, parsley and mint (the combination works so well that one plate may not be enough). There are Greek influences too, with a fantastic marinated octopus, char-grilled to perfection. The bubbly wait staff ensure that mains – such as slow cooked meatballs or spicy beef rissoles – are as authentic as their grandparents' versions.

The concise wine list offers enough varieties to complement the kitchen's flavours and features several Turkish labels; a real rarity in Melbourne. Otherwise, cleanse your palate with an Efes Pilsner or one of 10 types of raki (anise-flavoured spirit), served straight or with water and ice. For a caffeine hit, the choice is between Coffee Supreme or Turkish.