The much-anticipated collaboration from chefs Ana Sortun and Cassie Piuma, Sarma takes its cues from the neighborhood restaurants (meyhane) of Istanbul. The Somerville restaurant, which opened in Winter Hill in the fall of 2013, cultivates a spirit of community through an easily shareable menu of meze (small plates), distilled spirits and beautifully designed surroundings.

Drawing on culinary traditions from all over the Mediterranean, the menu features hand-selected craft ingredients enhanced by Piuma’s nuanced use of spices and fresh herbs. Her deft hand gives the little dishes big flavor without making them heavy. And makes them ripe for pairing with food-friendly cocktails, craft beers or a glass of wine from the restaurant’s small but carefully curated list.

The colors and textures in the kitchen spill into the blue-hued dining room, where diners can linger over their meals from plush banquettes in whimsical shades or enjoy a drink at the luxe, poured-concrete bar, which seats twenty.