Back in 1555, when two Yemeni merchants brought coffee to Istanbul, the Turks instantly fell in love with it. Coffee became a way of life in Turkey, which later spread throughout their empire, and in Istanbul, Turkish coffee is still the undisputed ruler. Drinking a daily dose of Turkish coffee is an essential part of life in Istanbul, and the city’s popular cafes are always full of people. Whether you enjoy it sade (without sugar) or şekerli (with sugar), the bold taste of this coffee is not easy to forget.

Specially made from finely ground beans in a long pot (metal pot), Turkish coffee has a uniquely strong flavour. In addition to the thick and intense aroma that amazes at the first taste, Turkish coffee also has a cultural significance that ranges from its use in happiness to the consolidation of marriage agreements. Here is a list of the best places in Istanbul where you can enjoy authentic Turkish coffee as well as the conversation that comes with it.

Cardamom spice is another common addition to Turkish coffee. Be sure to try it. In fact, there are many other types of coffee you can try while in Istanbul. Some places, as well as supermarkets even sell Turkish coffee with pistachio flavour. How does that sound?

Places to get Turkish coffe in Istanbul

Even though it is hard to find a bad coffee in Istanbul, we must mention some places where you can enjoy a really good cup of tradition. If you are in Kadıköy, stroll down to Bazaar area and visit Fazıl Bey’s Turkish Coffee place (open on map). Bringing Istanbul locals their daily hit of caffeine since 1923, the popular store is one of the city’s oldest and has several locations. The cosy two-storey shop has shiny antique coffee machines that grind and roast its speciality brand.

Passing by the Spice Bazaar in Eminönü, you will smell the aroma of freshly brewed coffee coming from one of the corner streets. That smell will probably come from our next stop – Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi coffee place (open on map). It was here where Mehmet Efendi started to sell roasted coffee beans after inheriting the store from his father in 1871 – a legacy that continues today. If you find yourself wandering the Grand Bazar after that magical cup of coffee, and you end up at Sultanahmet area, make a stop at Şark Kahvesi (open on map).  Once a haunt of the bazaar’s artisans, it is now a hotspot for tourists taking shopping breaks.

Located on a narrow side street in Beyoğlu, coffee bar Mandabatmaz (open on map) maintains its long-standing reputation as a popular spot in Istanbul to enjoy a cup of authentic Turkish coffee since 1967. When you finish sightseeing Beyoglu, take a cab to Bebek, one of the most beautiful areas of Istanbul that offers unparalleled vistas of the Bosphorus. Walk to famous Bebek Kahve (open on map), a charming coffeehouse situated near the waterfront. With wooden chairs and simple decor, this coffee shop has a laid-back style, though prices are on the higher end.   

One of the places with the best view is Pierre Loti (open on map). Named after the 18th-century French poet and writer Pierre Loti – a lover of Istanbul who used to live in the Eyüp district – this coffeehouse sits atop a hill with marvellous views of Sarayburnu and the Golden Horn. To get there you need to use a cable car, a splendid way to enjoy the view from above.