Best Turkish Coffee in Istanbul: 10 Traditional Coffee Shops for Caffeine Lovers (2024)

Turkish coffee is not just a drink, it’s a cultural experience. And where better to indulge in this unique experience than in Istanbul? With its rich history and vibrant coffee culture, Istanbul is the perfect place to try out the best Turkish coffee in the world. In this article, we will explore the top 10 places to get the best Turkish coffee in Istanbul. From the best cafes to street vendors, we will take you on a journey through the city to find the perfect cup of coffee.

The History of Turkish Coffee

Coffee has been an essential part of Turkish culture for centuries. Turkish coffee has a unique brewing process that involves finely ground coffee beans and a cezve, a small copper or brass pot. The coffee is brewed slowly over low heat, and the result is a thick, strong coffee with a layer of foam on top.

When ordering Turkish coffee in Istanbul, it’s essential to know the right terminology. The most common way to order is by asking for “bir Türk kahvesi, lütfen” (one Turkish coffee, please). You can also specify how sweet you want it by saying “az şekerli” (less sugar) or “çok şekerli” (more sugar).

Do You Think That You Are a Tea Person?

If you are curious about the rich culture and history of Turkey, then you might want to explore the fascinating world of Turkish tea. In our article, we will take a closer look at the origins of Turkish tea, the different types of tea available, and the customs and traditions associated with this beloved drink. So sit back, relax, and pour yourself a cup of Turkish tea as you dive into the world of this delicious and refreshing beverage.

Taste the Unique Turkish Coffee on the Local Tour

Where to Find the Best Turkish Coffee in Istanbul

Mandabatmaz

If you’re looking for an authentic Turkish coffee experience in Istanbul, you won’t want to miss Mandabatmaz. This street vendor has been serving up delicious coffee since 1967, earning its name from the thick foam that sits atop each cup. What’s more, the seating is just as unique as the coffee itself. Guests can sit in short chairs and tables and soak in the cool atmosphere of Istiklal Street while sipping on their coffee. Locals love to take a break and relax here during their stroll, making this spot a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Istanbul.

Mehmet Efendi

How great would it be to sip on some Turkish coffee from the OG coffee makers near the Spice Bazaar in Eminönü? If you wander around the Spice Bazaar, you’ll catch a whiff of fresh coffee brewing from one of the nearby streets. Back in 1871, the legendary Mehmet Efendi started selling roasted coffee beans and his legacy has been passed down from one generation to the next. While you wait for your tasty Turkish coffee, you can watch the staff make it behind the window and pour it into paper cups. And guess what? You can get your hands on packages of freshly ground coffee in stores, online, and in markets if you just can’t get enough of that amazing taste.

Bebek Kahvesi

The next one is Bebek Kahve, the coolest coffeehouse situated in the upscale Bebek neighborhood. With its prime location, this café offers unparalleled views of the Bosphorus, making it a hotspot for coffee enthusiasts. It’s no wonder that this café has attracted many regulars, including Turkish celebrities, during its 65 years of operation. The café’s simple decor and wooden chairs create a relaxed ambiance, though prices are slightly on the higher end. However, why not indulge in some delicious eggs and crepes for breakfast, and then sit back and enjoy the view while sipping on a high-quality cup of coffee?

Fazıl Bey’s Turkish Coffee

Are you in search of a traditional coffee experience? Fazıl Bey’s Turkish Coffee, located in the vibrant Kadıköy Bazaar, might just be the perfect spot for you. This popular store has been supplying Istanbul locals with their daily caffeine fix since 1923 and is one of the city’s oldest coffee shops, with several locations. The distinctive aroma of coffee from Fazil Bey’s Turkish Coffee will lure you inside by your arms. Their cosy two-storey shop has shiny antique coffee machines that grind and roast their speciality brand. With songs playing that capture the essence of Turkish folk music, this café offers a wide range of coffee flavors, including more experimental options with mastic or cardamom. So why not give it a try and experience the authentic taste of Turkish coffee for yourself?

Pierre Loti

Pierre Loti cafe, located atop the scenic Pierre Loti hill, is a coffee shop with a rich historical legacy. With its breathtaking views of the Golden Horn estuary and Sarayburnu accessible through cable cars, it has become a must-visit destination in Istanbul for locals and tourists alike.

Drinking a cup of delicious Turkish coffee at this open-air cafe while engaging in aesthetic conversations with friends is an experience that will leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed. And while enjoying the panoramic views of the city, you can also take in the beauty of the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, located nearby.

But that’s not all. A visit to Pierre Loti cafe also includes a ride on the Eyüp-Pierre Loti hill cable car, which offers stunning views of the city and the Golden Horn estuary. And if you’re a fan of telescopes, you’ll be pleased to know that the cafe provides one for you to take in all-encompassing views of the city.

Şark Kahvesi

If you’re looking for a real classic spot in Istanbul, you gotta check out Şark Kahvesi . This place has been around for over 50 years in the historic Grand Bazaar, so you know they’re legit. It used to be the go-to spot for the bazaar’s artisans, but nowadays it’s a hot spot for tourists who need a break from all that shopping. The vibe inside is super nostalgic with all the wooden tables and chairs, colourful tablecloths from Anatolia, antiques, and old-school black-and-white photos. Şark Kahvesi is famous for three things: the way they brew coffee slowly in copper cezve over hot sand, their classic wooden interiors, and their primo location right in the heart of the tourist scene.

And the best part? You won’t be waiting around for your coffee because the service is super quick. Although it’s a small place that’s always packed, so sometimes you might have to wait for a good spot to sit. It’s located on one of the busiest streets in the Grand Bazaar, so it’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and people-watch while sipping on your cappuccino and munching on some Turkish delight before heading back out to hit up all those stores.

Okkalı Kahve’s

It’s located right in the center of Beşiktaş and Kadikoy and it’s loved by both locals and tourists. With sixteen different types of Turkish coffee on the menu, it might be tough to pick just one. Some of the most popular options include Adana Gar Coffee, Carvansaray Coffee, Gum Mastic Turkish Coffee, Dibek Coffee, and Menengiç Coffee.

Okkalı Kahve’s offers a unique coffee experience that blends different cultures into one delicious Turkish coffee. I gotta say, not only do I love the coffee with gum mastic flavor, but the atmosphere of the place is also pretty cool. Plus, when you pair the coffee with a slice of their tasty carrot cake, it’s pure bliss.

Sade Kahve

Sade Kahve is a lovely coffee house that offers more than just good coffee. It is located near the beautiful Bosphorus waterfront, right next to the historic Rumeli Hisarı fortress. The fortress is a popular tourist attraction that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. The coffee house prepares its coffee slowly on ash, which is a traditional Turkish method of brewing coffee. The rich, flavorful taste of the Turkish coffee is a must-try for coffee connoisseurs.

But that’s not all. Sade Kahve also offers a superb breakfast that is available all day long. The breakfast is served in the coffee house’s signature style, which is a unique and delightful experience. The breakfast menu includes a variety of dishes that are freshly made with high-quality ingredients. From sweet to savory, there is something for everyone.

Tarihi Bagdat Kuru Kahvecisi

Tarihi Bagdat Kuru Kahvecisi is a renowned coffee shop in the Anatolian region of Istanbul that blends Turkish and Aegean flavors. The cafe offers many types of Turkish coffee with mastic, saffron, or ice cream, and a lively atmosphere with Greek music playing in the background. You can also purchase mastic Turkish delight and paste from the island of Chios in Greece. Tarihi Bagdat Kurukahvecisi is well-known for its extra-foamy Turkish coffee, which you can enjoy while listening to the calming Greek music, providing a unique and memorable experience.

Velvet Cafe in Balat

Velvet Cafe , located in both Balat and Galata, has a unique and delightful experience for coffee lovers. When you visit, you are asked to choose from a collection of antique cups from various countries before you drink your coffee. This adds a special touch to the experience, as you can feel the historical significance of the various cups. The cafe is also popular for offering rich, foamy Turkish coffee served in colorful and stylish patterned cups, making it an ideal spot for those who love nostalgia. Additionally, you can’t leave without trying their flour halva, a traditional Turkish sweet that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. With all of these elements combined, it’s easy to see why this cafe is a must-visit for both tourists and locals alike.

Don’t Miss The Best Tours and Cruises in Istanbul

The Best Turkish Coffee Brand in Istanbul

Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, the best coffee brand in Istanbul, is a good place to buy ground coffee. You can buy Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi’s coffees from the shop next to the Spice Bazaar. There is also a shop in Kadikoy on the Asian Side.

Tips for Drinking Turkish Coffee in Istanbul

When drinking Turkish coffee in Istanbul, it’s essential to know how to drink it like a local. First, take a sip of water to cleanse your palate. Then, take small sips of the coffee, allowing the foam to settle on your tongue. Don’t drink the coffee too quickly, as it’s meant to be enjoyed slowly.

Turkish coffee is also known for its fortune-telling properties. If you’re interested in having your fortune told, look for a coffee shop that offers this service. During a Turkish coffee reading, the grounds in your cup are used to predict your future.

Conclusion

Turkish coffee is an integral part of Istanbul’s culture, and there is no better place to experience it than in the city itself. From cozy cafes to street vendors, Istanbul has a wide variety of places to offer when it comes to Turkish coffee. So, next time you’re in Istanbul, be sure to indulge in this unique cultural experience and try out some of the best Turkish coffee in the world.

Don’t Miss The Best Tours and Cruises in Istanbul