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Welcome to the enchanting world of Istanbul’s vibrant café culture, where every cup of coffee tells a story, and every corner echoes with the warmth of Turkish hospitality. Istanbul, the city that connects East to West, boasts a café scene that seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary charm. Did you know that Istanbul is the birthplace of the coffee shop?
This is a journey through Istanbul’s cafés to find a taste of rich Turkish coffee, also a sip into the soul of this city. Join us as we navigate the cobblestone streets and uncover the treasures that await in the heart of Istanbul. From historic coffee houses steeped in tales of the past to modern gems cafés.
In Istanbul, coffee is more than a drink; it’s a ritual, a conversation starter, and a symbol of shared moments. The city’s coffee culture seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering a diverse range of coffee experiences for enthusiasts.
In this city that breathes history, the cages are not just a place to enjoy a coffee; they are living chapters in the story of Istanbul’s cultural tapestry.
Istanbul is considered the origin of the coffee shop. The first coffeehouse on record opened in Istanbul in the 1550s. Two merchants from Damascus, who brought beans from the Arabian Peninsula, were owners of the coffeehouse. Coffeehouses in Constantinople were places for people to drink coffee, meet, do business, and discuss politics, arts, and literature. Coffee’s success and integration into Ottoman culture were finally given by the coffeehouses kahvehane.
İsmail Ağa Coffee House, located in Kanlıca, Istanbul, is a historic and tranquil place with a rich heritage. Founded in 1870 by Rize0 based İsmail Ağa, the coffeehouse has been visited by prominent figures such as Mustafa Kemel Atatür and İsmet İnönü. It is known for its famous Kanlıca yogurt and has been modernized to fit the 21st century. The place is also known for its finest Turkish coffee.
Hazzopulo Passage, located in Beyoğlu, Istanbul, is a historic arcade built between 1850-1871. It is known for its central courtyard and its connection between Istiklal Street and Mesrutiyet Street. The passage is a popular destination with a rich history, featuring a variety of shops and vendors.
Mandabatmaz, a small outdoor café located in Beyoğlu, Istanbul, is renowned for serving the best Turkish coffee in the city. Tucked away in an alley from the main tourist street, it offers a substantial menu of coffee and tea selections, making it a lovely old-school spot for coffee enthusiasts.
Asmali Kahve, also known as Firuz Ağa Tea Garden, is a café located in Firuzağa neighborhood of Beyoğlu, Istanbul. It is known for its outdoor seating area and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The café offers a variety of coffee and tea selections, and visitors can enjoy their drinks while taking in the charming atmosphere of the neighborhood.
Traditional coffeehouses, also known as “kahvehane” have been an integral part of Turkish culture for centuries. These establishments are social hubs where people gather to engage in conversations, play games, and enjoy traditional Turkish coffee or tea. They are often characterized by a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere, making them ideal for socializing and unwinding.
The coffee, served in a petite cup, leaves a layer of sediment settled at the bottom and beside the coffee. Turkish coffee is typically accompanied by a small sweet morsel, such as a piece of “lokum” (Turkish delight), and a glass of water on the side.
Istanbul’s cafe culture is always changing, and contemporary cafes are adding their own unique touch to the classic Turkish coffee experience. With a modern twist on this traditional libation, these places embrace innovation without compromising legacy. Every cup of coffee in this city tells a story, from its creative presentation to its flavorful blend. It’s a story of a city that’s always looking to the future but never forgets its past.
Baristas skillfully blend traditional preparation methods with creative twists, introducing variations of coffee or cold brew. The ambiance in these cafes is often a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and cultural elements.
In Istanbul, drinking Turkish coffee is a journey through time. You’ll taste the history of this beloved beverage, while also experiencing the city’s modern take on coffee culture. Every sip is a celebration of Istanbul’s rich coffee heritage.
Kronotrop Coffee Kronotrop is a coffee bar and roastery located in the Cihangir neighborhood of Istanbul. It is known for its specialty coffee offerings and is considered a pioneer in the specialty coffee scene in Istanbul. The cafe offers a variety of coffee blends, equipment, accessories, and subscriptions.
PEOPLE Nişantaşı is a cafe known for its Turkish cuisine, including pies, pasta, fruitcakes, and cheesecakes. It also offers a variety of coffee options. This coffee offers a perfect view of Nişantaşı neighborhood.
Espressolab Roastery is Europe’s largest coffee experiences center. It combines a coffee shop, roasting workshop, and bakery operations under one roof.
Petra Coffee Roasting in Gayrettepe is a prominent coffee roastery known for its commitment to sourcing and roasting high-quality coffee beans to provide a unique coffee experience. This place is renowned for its espresso and 3rd generation coffee like Cemex and Hario V60.
Join in the deliciousness of Turkish desserts and pastries at Istanbul’s cafes. Istanbul’s cafes offer the country’s rich cookery, each of them telling a story of tradition and craftsmanship.
Some of the best coffee shops beside the Bosphorus in Istanbul include:
