Meze or mezze (Arabic, مَزة, Greek "mezé" (μεζέ), Bulgarian мезé "mezé", Macedonian мéзе "méze", from Turkish "meze", all from Persian "maze" (مزه) 'taste, snack' < "mazīdan" 'to taste') is the name for a number of small dishes or appetizers served before a meal, often with a drink. They are common in the Eastern Mediterranean. Drinks include anise-flavored liqueurs, such as "arak", "ouzo", "raki" or different wines. These dishes are similar to the "tapas" of Spain or finger food.