Istanbul Coffee Shops

Istanbul is a city where coffee culture runs deep, blending centuries-old traditions with modern café experiences. Whether you’re looking for an authentic Turkish coffee experience, a cozy café for working, or a trendy spot with specialty brews, Istanbul coffee shops offer a variety of flavors, atmospheres, and unique settings.

From historic Ottoman-era coffeehouses to hip third-wave cafés, this guide explores the best Istanbul coffee shops, where to find them, and what makes them special.

Best Traditional Turkish Coffee Shops in Istanbul

If you want to experience authentic Turkish coffee, these Istanbul coffee shops will take you back in time with their rich brews and historic settings.

1. Mandabatmaz

• Location: Beyoğlu
• Why Visit? One of the most famous Istanbul coffee shops for thick, foamy Turkish coffee, served in a small, hidden café.
• What to Try: Classic Turkish coffee with a side of lokum (Turkish delight).

2. Pierre Loti Café

• Location: Eyüpsultan
• Why Visit? A historic café with breathtaking panoramic views of the Golden Horn, named after the French writer Pierre Loti.
• What to Try: Traditional Turkish coffee, enjoyed while admiring Istanbul’s skyline.

3. Fazıl Bey’in Türk Kahvesi

• Location: Kadıköy
• Why Visit? A well-loved coffee shop serving Turkish coffee made using traditional brewing techniques, in the lively streets of Kadıköy.
• What to Try: Menengiç coffee (made from wild pistachios, caffeine-free).

Best Specialty Coffee Shops in Istanbul

For those who love high-quality espresso-based drinks and third-wave coffee, these Istanbul coffee shops specialize in handcrafted brews and artisanal blends.

4. Kronotrop Coffee Bar & Roastery

• Location: Cihangir
• Why Visit? One of the first third-wave coffee roasters in Istanbul, known for its single-origin beans and expertly crafted brews.
• What to Try: V60 pour-over coffee or a flat white.

5. Petra Roasting Co.

• Location: Gayrettepe
• Why Visit? A sleek, minimalist café that serves some of the best specialty coffee in Istanbul, sourced from premium farms worldwide.
• What to Try: Cold brew or espresso tonic.

6. Coffee Department

• Location: Balat
• Why Visit? A hidden gem in the historic Balat district, known for its carefully roasted beans and friendly atmosphere.
• What to Try: Aeropress coffee and homemade pastries.

Best Cozy and Aesthetic Istanbul Coffee Shops

If you’re searching for Istanbul coffee shops that offer a relaxed, cozy ambiance with stylish interiors, these cafés are perfect for unwinding with a cup of coffee.

7. Walter’s Coffee Roastery

• Location: Moda, Kadıköy
• Why Visit? Inspired by Breaking Bad, this science-lab-themed coffee shop serves some of the best specialty brews in Istanbul.
• What to Try: Chemex coffee or a signature latte.

8. FilBooks

• Location: Karaköy
• Why Visit? A beautiful bookshop café, perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy reading in a quiet, artistic setting.
• What to Try: Latte with homemade almond milk.

9. Maison Balat

• Location: Balat
• Why Visit? A charming café in one of Istanbul’s most colorful neighborhoods, known for its vintage décor and perfect Instagram spots.
• What to Try: Turkish tea and fresh pastries.

Best Rooftop and Scenic Coffee Shops in Istanbul

If you want to sip coffee while enjoying stunning views of Istanbul, these Istanbul coffee shops offer spectacular panoramas.

10. Seven Hills Café

• Location: Sultanahmet
• Why Visit? A rooftop café with a breathtaking view of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, perfect for coffee lovers who appreciate a scenic backdrop.
• What to Try: Turkish coffee with a side of traditional baklava.

11. Cup of Joy

• Location: Bebek
• Why Visit? A stylish café located in one of Istanbul’s most beautiful seaside neighborhoods, serving expertly brewed coffee.
• What to Try: Iced lattes and avocado toast.

12. Emirgan Sütiş

• Location: Emirgan
• Why Visit? A historic café on the Bosphorus waterfront, famous for its breakfast, desserts, and strong Turkish coffee.
• What to Try: Turkish coffee with kaymak and honey.

Best Hidden Gem Coffee Shops in Istanbul

For those who love exploring off-the-beaten-path coffee spots, these Istanbul coffee shops provide unique settings and a break from the crowds.

13. Şimdi Café

• Location: Beyoğlu
• Why Visit? A cozy and artsy café tucked away in an old Beyoğlu building, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
• What to Try: Espresso macchiato with a homemade dessert.

14. Çukurcuma Antiques & Café

• Location: Çukurcuma, Beyoğlu
• Why Visit? A hidden café inside an antique shop, where visitors can enjoy coffee surrounded by vintage furniture and art pieces.
• What to Try: Filter coffee with homemade cookies.

15. Naan Bakeshop

• Location: Moda, Kadıköy
• Why Visit? A bakery-meets-coffee shop that serves delicious fresh pastries with top-quality coffee.
• What to Try: Espresso and a freshly baked croissant.

Why Istanbul is a Coffee Lover’s Paradise

1. Diverse Coffee Culture: From centuries-old Turkish coffeehouses to modern third-wave cafés, Istanbul offers a rich coffee experience.
2. Historic Coffee Traditions: Turkish coffee is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, making it a must-try for visitors.
3. Unique Café Settings: Many Istanbul coffee shops are located in historical buildings, scenic waterfront areas, or trendy modern spaces.
4. Specialty Coffee Growth: The city has a thriving third-wave coffee scene, with expert baristas brewing high-quality, single-origin coffee.

Whether you’re looking for traditional Turkish coffee, specialty espresso, or a scenic rooftop café, the Istanbul coffee shops scene has something for everyone. With its historic coffeehouses, modern third-wave cafés, and cozy neighborhood spots, Istanbul is a paradise for coffee lovers.

For a truly immersive experience, make sure to visit both traditional Turkish coffee spots and modern specialty coffee shops to appreciate the rich coffee culture of Istanbul.