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
+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.
#2: Coffee Sapiens
Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa
Kılıç Ali Paşa Mescidi Sk. 10/C
34425 Beyoğlu, İstanbul
+90 541 721 40 08
Ok, this was one of the best cappuccinos I have ever had. The whole experience was lovely. Coffee Sapiens is located on a beautiful little street of cafés shaded by grape vines. My cappuccino came with a tasty shortbread cookie and rose-scented water. The coffee was strong and the texture perfect. Like so much of Istanbul, cats wandered the street and one nestled up at my feet.
On my walk back, I stumbled upon one other coffee shop called Berkeketzadeli. Having already consumed four shots of espresso in my two cappuccinos, I decided to hold it for next time.
CONCLUSION
The coffee scene in Istanbul is great. I loved my two cups of coffee (the coffee at the Grand Hyatt was deplorable) and cannot wait to return.
Do you have any favorite coffee shops in Istanbul?
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.