Spirits - Domestic spirits - Konyak, Wodka and Cin - are best consigned to the kitchen. Imported spirits aren't expensive here, unless you're drinking them in an upmarket bar in which case keep an eye on the tab. If you're ordering a mixed drink ask for Ithal (imported) and be nice to the barman.

As for where to drink, any restaurant that serves fish or is targetting a younger or more western crowd will be licensed. Most Turkish Lokantas and kebap places aren't. Ankara has a growing number of dancy, clubby bars but if you're looking for a 'pub' type atmosphere you'll have to either get yourself into one of the embassy bars as a guest or try one of the establishments that claims to present the ambience of an Irish, British or European boozer. There are a few of these ranging from the slightly tatty to the not too bad. Be prepared to pay a premium anywhere that has gone out of its way not to be Turkish.