I was in Istanbul recently and as I always do now, sought out great coffee. I found two great places that I want to share with you.
#1: Espresso Lab
Şahkulu Mahallesi
İstiklal Caddesi Tünel 233
34421 Beyoğlu, İstanbul
+90 212 855 80 65
Located on the İstiklal Caddesi in at three different locations, including one in Taksim Square, this is a great alternative to other coffee chains. The staff was friendly, wi-fi fast, and most importantly, the coffee (cappuccino) excellent. I was staying at the Grand Hyatt near Taksim Square and that location was so crowded I kept walking to the next one. It too was quite crowded; in fact, I took the last open table in the café. If you’re ever in need of late-night coffee, this place is open till 12:30AM.
Coffee looks good, but you really missed out on the traditional Turkish coffee and tea. I myself like to stick to local products when I travel – makes the travel experience more genuine. “When in Rome” as they say….
I had both. This afternoon was a cappuccino day.
Was gonna ask the same thing….
Lovely! Visiting in two weeks and I’ll make sure I hit up #2 and 3. ☺️☺️☺️
Try cold brew at Kronotrop in Taksim area. I always go there when I come to the city.
The coffeeshop is quite small so I always pick my coffee to go.
“ The coffee at the Grand Hyatt was deplorable “….perhaps so relative to the boutique cafes outside, but it’s ok for hotel coffee ( the machine in the lounge is decent enough).
It’s a very nice hotel to spend a few days…
I am living in Tünel, Beyoğlu, and it would be great to see you and have a short chat… Espresso Lab is also one of our favourites as locals. For a dark roast Turkish coffee, you may try Mandabatmaz next time.