Find The Best Turkish Coffee In Istanbul | Türk Kahvesi Coffee Shop

Istanbul, a city that thrives on its coffee culture, is a haven for coffee lovers, where the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans fills the air. From the bustling streets lined with Starbucks to the cozy corners of independent coffee shops, there’s a unique blend of modern and traditional.

But beyond these, the city hides its true gem – traditional coffee houses offering the rich, foamy Turkish coffee that’s been a staple in Istanbul’s coffee scene since forever – Türk kahvesi.

As someone who spends months at a time in Istanbul, I’ve embarked on a quest to find the best Turkish coffee the city has to offer. From the renowned Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, known for its delicious Turkish coffee and freshly ground coffee beans, to hidden spots like Fazıl Bey’s Turkish Coffee and the historical Pierre Loti Cafe, I’ve tasted my way through Istanbul to bring you a guide to the best places to drink Turkish coffee in Istanbul.

Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or new to the world of delicious Turkish coffee, join me as we explore the essence of Turkish coffee culture, including where to buy Turkish coffee, the best coffee shops in Istanbul, and how to truly enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee.

This is your guide to the 10 best spots in Istanbul where you can enjoy not just a cup but an entire experience. So, grab your coffee cup, and let’s dive into the rich flavor of Turkish coffee that Istanbul offers.

Find The Best Turkish Coffee Shop In Istanbul

You’ll find Turkish coffee in all coffee shops across the city. However, the Turkish coffee you get in Starbucks will certainly not be as good as the cup you’ll be served in a traditional coffee house.

You’re also missing out on the social element of Turkish coffee by going to a big chain like this; remember, this beverage is very traditional and ingrained in history!

To help you find the best cup of java out there, here are 11 of the best places to taste Turkish coffee in Istanbul, where I know you’ll enjoy an authentic experience.

1. Mandabatmaz 

Asmalı Mescit, Olivya Gç. 1/A, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Located in Beyoğlu, Mandabatmaz is often regarded as one of Istanbul’s best coffee houses for Turkish coffee.

They use high-quality beans and traditional brewing methods to serve a rich and unforgettable cup. In fact, the beans used in this store are created only for them and are not mass-produced. You can also purchase some beans while you’re there and make Turkish coffee for yourself back home.

The café itself sits in a quiet alleyway just around the corner from Istiklal Street, so you can easily sip your coffee and watch the world go by. It’s a great place to avoid the hustle and bustle for an hour or so, and the brewmaster in this famous coffee shop is extremely friendly.

2. Fazıl Bey’in Türk Kahvesi

Caferağa, Serasker Cd. 1/A, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul

Founded originally in Eminönü on the European side of the city, Fazıl Bey’in Türk Kahvesi is a traditional coffee house that has been serving coffee since 1923. Since that time, several other branches have opened up, and the Kadıköy branch is particularly popular and busy. Along with a traditional décor and comfortable environment, this store provides a charming and authentic Turkish coffee experience cherished by locals and tourists alike.

Again, you can purchase coffee beans and even Turkish coffee cups to take back home with you. They won’t be the cheapest from here, as this is a very popular and touristic store, but they’re definitely high quality.

3. Kronotrop

Caddebostan, Caddebostan İskele Sk. Şeref Apartmanı No:14/B, 34728 Kadıköy/İstanbul

Kronotrop is a popular chain in Istanbul and there are several stores across the city, however the best one is in Caddebostan, which gives you the perfect, laid-back location to enjoy your coffee close to the beach.

From the outside, this coffee shop doesn’t look like a regular traditional store, but it’s well-known for making great Turkish coffee, along with an extensive menu of snacks if you’re feeling peckish.

4. Mado Café

Hobyar, Giriş, Ankara Cd. No:67 Z, 34112 Kat/Sirkeci/İstanbul

You’ll find Mado outlets all over the city, but the Sirkeci branch gives you a fantastic view while you enjoy your coffee. It’s also located in the most historic part of Istanbul, with easy access to Sultanahmet and Eminonu.

Mado is known for its delicious breakfasts and salep, but it also makes delicious and thick Turkish coffee. The combination of a peaceful atmosphere and excellent coffee make it a great destination to sit for half an hour and enjoy the world passing by.

5. Emirgan Tarihi Çınaraltı

Çengelköy, Çengelköy Mah. Çengelköy Cad, Çınarlı Cami Sk. No:4, 34680 Üsküdar/İstanbul

On the Asian side of the city, you’ll find this outdoor tea/coffee garden that overlooks the Bosphorus and is a relaxing place to enjoy an hour or so. This is a very popular café, especially in the summer months, but nothing is stopping you from visiting even when the weather is a little colder.

This café opened in 1948 and is a favorite amongst locals. You can sit here and watch the world go by while enjoying a traditionally brewed cup of thick Turkish coffee, along with snacks such as simit and gözleme.

6. Şark Kahvesi

Beyazıt, Yağlıkçılar Sk. No:134, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul

If you’re visiting the famous Grand Bazaar and doing a spot of haggling, be sure to stop by this renowned coffee shop. You’ll find both tourists and locals enjoying a cup of coffee here, which is always a mark of quality. The interior is traditional, with checked tablecloths from Anatolian times and photos on the wall.

The coffee is also made in the most traditional way, giving you a thick and strong cup to fuel you up for the rest of your shopping day.

7. Pierre Loti Café

Eyüp Merkez, Karyağdı Sk. No:20, 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul

If you venture up the famous hill to the viewing point in Eyüp, be sure to head to Pierre Loti Café, which the hill is named after. The café is named after the French writer and poet who loved the city, and from this café, you can see right over the Golden Horn as you sip on your delicious coffee.

The café gives you a really traditional experience, even down to the staff wearing Ottoman clothes and serving your Turkish coffee in old-fashioned cups. This is a large outdoor café, which can accommodate over a thousand people, and it does get quite busy during the summer months.

8. Tarihi Bagdat Kurukahvecisi

Suadiye, Bağdat Cad./kazım Özalp Sok. Kazım Kulan Pasajı No:371 D:6, 34740 Kadıköy/İstanbul

Located on the Asian side in busy Kadıköy, this is an authentic and popular coffee store to visit. You’ll find traditional Turkish coffee here, as well as variations on the theme. The interior is traditional, and they play live music throughout the week. There is also Greek history in this café, which is reflected in the décor.

You can also purchase delicious Turkish delight in this café, which goes really well with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

9. Çorlulu Ali Paşa Medresesi – One Of The Oldest Coffee Shops

Mollafenari, Yeniçeriler Cd. No:38, 34120 Fatih/İstanbul

Located in the traditional Fatih neighborhood, this famous Turkish coffee house is famous in the area and very popular amongst locals. The café is part of an old religious complex that was built in 1707, but these days, it is a popular spot to socialize and watch the world go by.

The coffee house itself is over 100 years old and famous for its authentic Turkish coffee served in old-fashioned cups. Having a cup of coffee here is like stepping back in time, and if you choose, you can also opt for a shisha to enjoy alongside your beverage.

10. Bebek Kahve

Bebek, Bebek Parkı No:16, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul

Bebek is a tranquil, high-end neighborhood on the European side of Istanbul, and Bebek Kahve is a popular coffee shop on the water’s edge. From here, you’ll see right over the Bosphorus to the Asian side, and with 65 years of history, this coffee shop is one of the best in the city.

The décor is simple and comfortable, and the menu is quite large. The Turkish coffee here is famous for its quality, and you can enjoy cakes and other freshly made treats at the same time.

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What Is Turkish Coffee, & Why Is It Special?

Turkish coffee is a traditional method of preparing and brewing coffee that originated in the country itself. It is made by finely grinding coffee beans into a powder-like consistency and then boiling it in a special pot called a cezve. The grounds remain in the cup when served, creating a rich and strong coffee adventure.

Turkish coffee is special for several reasons. First, it has a unique preparation process that requires attention to detail and patience. The ground coffee is added to the cezve along with water and sugar (optional), and then it is slowly heated over low heat. This allows the flavors to blend and develop, creating a rich and aromatic cup of coffee.

Another reason Turkish coffee is special is its distinct presentation. It is typically served in small cups called “fincan,” accompanied by a glass of water and sometimes a sweet treat like Turkish delight. This traditional coffee experience is not just about the taste but also the ambiance and ceremony surrounding the coffee preparation and serving.

Additionally, Turkish coffee has a strong and intense flavor that stands out among other brewing methods. It is usually sipped slowly, allowing the rich flavors to unfold. It’s typically served without sugar or milk, but if you prefer, you can add these to make it easier for you to drink.

Not everyone enjoys Turkish coffee because it is so strong, but it’s an affair to have, and many find they really enjoy it.

The History Of Turkish Coffee

Coffee was introduced to the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, and it quickly became a popular beverage among the elite. It was initially brought to Istanbul by Syrian traders, and its consumption gradually spread throughout the empire.

Coffeehouses, known as “kahvehane,” started springing up across Istanbul and other major cities. These establishments became social hubs where people gathered to enjoy coffee, engage in intellectual discussions, play games, and even watch entertainment performances.

In 2013, Turkish coffee was added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its cultural significance and traditional practices.

Today, Turkish coffee remains an essential part of Turkish culture, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Its distinctive flavor and brewing method continue to bring people together, fostering conversation and a social vibe.

Traditions Associated With Turkish Coffee

Just like Turkish tea (çay) has a strong social element, Turkish coffee is usually something that friends and family members enjoy together. It is considered a treat, and if guests visit a family home, they may be asked whether they want tea or coffee – the coffee will almost always be the Turkish kind.

However, there are some specific traditions associated with this intense type of coffee. Traditionally, when a couple decides to marry, the groom’s family will visit the bride-to-be’s family home, and the girl will make Turkish coffee for her potential in-laws. During this get-together, the groom’s family is weighing up whether this girl is right for their son while also deciding whether she makes good coffee or not!

However, the most common tradition associated with Turkish coffee is rather mystical. Once the cup is empty, the coffee grounds settle at the bottom of the cup. At this point, the cup is turned over and left for a short while, and then the grounds are used to predict the future.

There are many people who claim to be able to predict what is going to happen in a person’s life simply by reading their left-over coffee grounds, and many traditional cafes also have staff who will do this for you.

How To Make Turkish Coffee – Drinking Turkish Coffee

While you’re in Turkey, you might be tempted by the cute Turkish coffee sets with cups and pots included. In that case, you’ll need some Turkish coffee, which can be purchased from all supermarkets. When it comes to Turkish coffee brands, I like Ozerlat.

Some of the others are Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, Selamlique Istanbul, Hafiz Mustafa 1864, Arzum Okka, Nuri Toplar, Fazil Bey’s Turkish Coffee, Mahmood Coffee, and Dibek Coffee.

The good news is that Turkish coffee can be made quickly and simplly with a few easy steps. 

Here’s a Turkish coffee recipe to guide you:

Ingredients:

• 1 heaped tablespoon of freshly ground Turkish coffee beans per cup
• 1 cup of cold water for every cup of coffee you want to make
• Sugar (optional)

Equipment:

• A cezve (Turkish coffee pot)
• Stove or gas burner
• Demitasse cups (small coffee cups)

Instructions:

1. Measure the desired amount of cold water using a cup for each cup of coffee you wish to make. Pour the water into the cezve (Turkish coffee pot) and place it on the stove or gas burner.

2. Add 1 heaping tablespoon of freshly ground Turkish coffee per cup into the cezve. Turkish coffee is finely ground, almost like powder, so make sure you have the right consistency.

3. If you want to add sugar, measure the desired amount and add it to the cezve. Traditionally, Turkish coffee is served in three different levels of sweetness: sade (no sugar), az şekerli (a little sweet), and çok şekerli (very sweet).

4. Stir the coffee and sugar (if using) gently in the water, making sure it is well combined. Be careful not to let the coffee grounds settle at the bottom.

5. Place the cezve on low to medium heat and let it brew. It’s important to brew Turkish coffee slowly for the best taste. Keep an eye on it as it starts to heat up.

6. As the coffee heats up, you will notice a foam forming on top. When the foam rises to the rim of the cezve, please remove it from the heat for a few seconds to let the foam settle.

7. Return the cezve to the heat and let it brew again. Repeat the process of removing it from the heat when the foam reaches the rim. Do this 2-3 times. The multiple brewings help develop the coffee’s rich flavors.

8. Once the coffee is ready, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a minute or two. This allows the grounds to settle down at the bottom.

9. Pour the coffee slowly into demitasse cups, making sure not to disturb the sediment at the bottom. The foam should settle on top of the cups.

10. Serve Turkish coffee with a small, traditional Turkish delight or a glass of water on the side.

Enjoy your deliciously brewed Turkish coffee!

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Turkish Coffee Brands

1. Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi: as mentioned, it’s one of the oldest and most esteemed coffee brands in Turkey, known for its traditional Turkish coffee blend that captures the essence of Turkish coffee culture
2. Selamlique Istanbul: this brand modernizes the traditional Turkish coffee experience with a variety of flavors, such as dark roast, mastic, and chocolate, catering to contemporary tastes while preserving the traditional method of making Turkish coffee
3. Hafiz Mustafa 1864: originating from one of Istanbul’s most famous confectionery shops, Hafiz Mustafa also offers its own line of Turkish coffee, celebrated for its rich and full-bodied flavor
4. Arzum Okka: specializing in coffee machines that make Turkish coffee as well as offering their own coffee blends, Arzum Okka makes enjoying traditional Turkish coffee convenient without compromising on taste
5. Nuri Toplar: dating back to the late 19th century, Nuri Toplar prides itself on its artisanal approach to coffee roasting and grinding, offering a very authentic and high-quality Turkish coffee experience
6. Ozerlat: this brand has been around since 1917 and is known for its high-quality Turkish coffee. Ozerlat combines traditional techniques with modern tastes to create unique blends
7. Fazil Bey’s Turkish Coffee: located in Istanbul, this coffee shop and brand are famous for their delicious Turkish coffee, which is meticulously prepared to ensure a perfect cup every time. While it’s more of a local treasure, Fazil Bey’s has gained recognition among coffee lovers visiting Istanbul
8. Mahmood Coffee: with a variety of blends that cater to different preferences, Mahmood Coffee is known for its rich aroma and is a popular choice among Turkish coffee enthusiasts
9. Dibek Coffee: named after the traditional method of grinding coffee in a mortar (dibek), this brand offers a unique flavor profile by combining different roasting techniques and blends

Best Turkish Coffee In Istanbul Wrap Up

Turkish coffee isn’t just a caffeine hit, it’s a special part of Turkish culture with centuries old history. While not everyone enjoys the thick, strong taste of Turkish coffee, it does grow on you! Stick with it, and you will probably find that you learn to love it, just as many locals have.

There are countless places in Istanbul to enjoy coffee, and most will serve the Turkish variety for an authentic and traditional experience; these 10 spots will teach you the importance of this beverage in Turkish culture while giving you a real boost of energy to go about the rest of your day.