Chef Cassie Piuma's Turkish meyhane in Somerville — one of the most recommended restaurants in greater Boston and an Eater 38 fixture for years. The playful mezze menu covers lentil nachos, harissa barbecue duck, brussels sprouts bravas, and the legendary Turkish fried chicken (ordered direct from the tray when it appears). Resy's most-cited Boston recommendation; books up weeks in advance despite being open for over a decade. Worth the short trip across the river from downtown.
Why It Belongs on the List
Sarma is chef Cassie Piuma's Turkish-inspired meyhane in Somerville's Davis Square — a mezze-driven restaurant that has been an Eater 38 fixture and Resy's most-cited Boston recommendation for years. The playful menu of shareable plates covers lentil nachos, harissa barbecue duck, brussels sprouts bravas, and the legendary Turkish fried chicken that arrives on a tray and disappears within minutes. The atmosphere is lively and communal, designed for groups sharing generously. Despite being across the river from downtown, Sarma draws diners citywide and books up weeks in advance. The Red Line to Davis Square makes it a 15-minute trip from Back Bay.
What Stands Out
- James Beard semifinalist: Cassie Piuma's nationally recognized mezze kitchen
- Turkish fried chicken — the cult-status dish, ordered from the tray when it appears
- Lentil nachos, harissa duck, brussels sprouts bravas — shareable plates designed for groups
- Eater 38 fixture for years and Resy's most-cited Boston recommendation
- Worth the short trip from downtown — 15 minutes by Red Line to Davis Square