Cafes in Istanbul

54 tips by 20 locals

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From Turkish and Arabic to Italian and Indian, most world cuisines can be found in Istanbul. The most famous Turkish snack is “simit”. It’s a bagel-shaped bread covered in sesame seeds typically eaten with a salted yoghurt drink ...Open the full description

From Turkish and Arabic to Italian and Indian, most world cuisines can be found in Istanbul.

The most famous Turkish snack is “simit”. It’s a bagel-shaped bread covered in sesame seeds typically eaten with a salted yoghurt drink called “ayran”. The most widely known Turkish foods are “döner” (meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie), “lahmacun” (Turkish pizza) and “kebap” (grilled meat).

Vefa Bozacısı

Try one of Turkey’s oldest drinks

Vefa Bozacısı

17

“Boza” is a fermented drink made with semolina, water and sugar, traditionally topped with roasted chickpeas and a sprinkling of cinnamon. It’s one of the oldest drinks in Turkey, dating back to the 4th century. It’s only consumed during the winter months. Read more ›

by Senem

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Pierre Loti Hill

Tea with a view

Pierre Loti Hill

17

Named after the well-known French novelist Pierre Loti, this hill offers perfect views of the Golden Horn. It’s also home to a famous café that bears the same name. Loti lived in Istanbul for many years and was a big fan of the city. The café is a meeting point for lovers and couples, and has featured in many Turkish romance films. Read more ›

by Senem

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Taps Bebek

Brewery on the Bosphorus

Taps Bebek

17

Being the first and only brewery in Turkey makes Taps Bebek truly unique. Locals love this place for its tasty beers and fantastic view of the Bosphorus. Read more ›

by Koray Kaan

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Kanlıca Yoğurdu

Istanbul's favourite yoghurt since 1893

Kanlıca Yoğurdu

15

Yoghurt is one of the most widely consumed foods in Turkey. Istanbul’s Kanlıca neighbourhood is famous for its tasty and extra creamy yoghurt. It’s also a great spot to sit and enjoy nice views of the Bosphorus. Read more ›

by Senem

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İnci Pastanesi

Istanbul’s first profiterole shop

İnci Pastanesi

14

Established in 1944 by a Greek migrant who claims to have invented the profiterole himself, İnci Pastanesi is a Beyoğlu institution. It was previously located in the Cercle D’Orient building. Read more ›

by Senem

Ask Senem

Mangerie Bebek

Beautiful breakfast spot

Mangerie Bebek

13

The design of this place makes you feel very comfortable. It’s like eating breakfast or dinner in your own home. You’ll find Turkish and international flavours on the same plate, and everything is really delicious. Their big tables give you the chance to socialise with other guests. Read more ›

by Alican

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Istanbul Private Foodie Tour

Istanbul Private Foodie Tour

(4)

Discover and taste Turkey’s best culinary specialities while exploring lesser-known districts of Istanbul on a private 6-hour foodie adventure! This tour takes you from cosy cafés to hidden-away restaurants, niche food stores and vibrant kitchens in Beyoğlu and beyond.

Prices from

38.50 EUR

Duration

6 h

Languages

English

İncirli Şaraphane

Turkish wine cellar with a view

İncirli Şaraphane

13

İncirli Şaraphane is a wine cellar and restaurant with a decent menu and perfect views. Locals love this place for its waterfront location, huge selection of wines from all over Turkey and special manufacturer prices. Read more ›

by Koray Kaan

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J'adore Chocolatier Café

Chocolate heaven

J'adore Chocolatier Café

13

This is where you’ll find the best chocolate in Istanbul, there’s no doubt about it. Plus, it’s the perfect sanctuary if you want to escape the hectic Taksim crowds. It’s small, warm and peaceful, and its lemony fragrance has a particularly relaxing effect. Read more ›

by Murat

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Maiden's Tower

A place of legends

Maiden's Tower

12

According to a popular Turkish legend, the Byzantine king imprisoned his daughter here after an oracle prophesised that she would die of a venemous snakebite on her 18th birthday. When the day finally came, her overjoyed father brought her a basket of fruit as a gift, but unbeknownst to him, the killer snake was hiding inside. Read more ›

by Senem

Ask Senem

Lucca

Stylish bistro & bar

Lucca

10

Lucca is one of the first places that comes to mind for socialising, eating and drinking. Many locals head here after work to feed their stomachs with delicious food and their souls with good music. Read more ›

by Alican

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Kadıköy

Kadıköy/Cultural Side of İstanbul

Kadıköy

9

Kadıköy is the name of the neighbourhood of the district, a residential and commercial area that, with its numerous bars, cinemas and bookshops, is the cultural centre of the Anatolian side of Istanbul. Also, there are lots of biking options. Read more ›

by İrem

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Cup of Joy

Real cup of joy

Cup of Joy

9

Finding it may be a little hard because it is located in a passageway in Bebek.But it will worth it definately. When you see the shop, we feel like your are in Italy. Really small but genuine and cozy place. Their coffees are delicious, international and special. People are friendly and trendy. Read more ›

by Alican

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Çorlulu Ali Paşa Medresesi

Nice hookah & tea lounge

Çorlulu Ali Paşa Medresesi

9

Çorlulu Ali Paşa Medresesi was once part of a “külliye” (an Ottoman social complex). These days it’s a nice café where people of all ages smoke water pipes and drink tea. The traditional Turkish lighting makes it a particularly beautiful place. Read more ›

by Efe

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Whirling Dervishes Ceremony in Istanbul Every Thursday

Whirling Dervishes Ceremony in Istanbul Every Thursday

(4)

Discover the story of Sufism, learn about Istanbul’s present-day Sufi community, and experience a Whirling Dervishes ceremony first-hand in an authentic Sufi monastery.

Prices from

30 EUR

Duration

3 h

Languages

English, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, French, Japanese

KronotRop

For coffee enthusiasts

KronotRop

8

KronotRop sells a wonderful selection of reasonably priced coffee beans as well as takeaway coffee. With a reputation as the best roastery in the city, it attracts both locals and visitors tired of Caffe Nero and Starbucks. The owner also makes great sweets and cookies. Read more ›

by Koray Kaan

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Any

Cozy place of the Arnavutköy district

Any

7

A delicious menu which will accompany cozy chit chats at any time of the day. People use the place as an office at the day time and there is a full fun weekend nights waiting for them too. It is a corner coffee restaurant which locals could see each other without planing. Read more ›

by Selin

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Virginia Angus

The most reasonable burger place

Virginia Angus

6

This is the best & most affordable steakhouse and burger place. Saltbae is so popular but it doesn't represent the local. Location is also in the ancient peninsula. With "Leave it to chef", you will have an excellent experience! Read more ›

by Bora

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Kybele Café

Opulent old-school café

Kybele Café

6

Kybele Café is located in the heart of the Old City close to Sultanahmet tram station. For locals, it feels just like the home of an elderly family member as it’s packed with antique furniture and old-school Turkish ornaments. Read more ›

by Senem

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Dem Karaköy

Groovy teahouse

Dem Karaköy

6

Karaköy has become very popular lately. With a great selection of teas and tasty snacks, Dem is one of the coolest places in the neighbourhood. The staff are welcoming and provide good information about the different teas on offer. Read more ›

by Senem

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Çiçek İşleri

Unique gift shop

Çiçek İşleri

5

Çiçek İşleri sells one of a kind handmade items as well as plants and flowers. It’s a perfect blend of traditional Turkish handicrafts and contemporary design. It also works as a café, so you can enjoy a nice coffee break once you’re done shopping. Read more ›

by Selin

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Kava Coffee

Coffee with LPs

Kava Coffee

4

If you want good coffee with little chat, try this coffee. Shop owner Bugra is very talkative and helpful, coffee was great and the ambiance was so good. Just 5 minutes walk away from ferry station. The coffee has "take away" option. Read more ›

by Şemsa

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Real Istanbul Day Tour

Real Istanbul Day Tour

(3)

This unique tour is designed for curious travellers who want to discover what Istanbul is really about. Sign up to see the city’s top sights, explore beyond the beaten track, enjoy authentic Turkish experiences and more!

Prices from

35 EUR

Duration

8 h

Languages

English, Spanish

On Off Karaköy

The newest hip place in Karaköy

On Off Karaköy

4

Karaköy is one of the most popular districts of European side about 2 years. There are lots of hip cafes, restaurants and night clubs. The district has its attraction all day and night long. On Off is the newest place in the district and it is popular from the beginning. Read more ›

by Selin

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Galata Konak Cafe

Make friends with seagulls

Galata Konak Cafe

4

This delightful top floor restaurant and café offers a fantastic panorama of Istanbul. If there’s a long queue at the Galata Tower and you still fancy seeing the city from the sky, head here for an almost identical view. Read more ›

by Senem

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Heirloom Istanbul Café

Charming café-market

Heirloom Istanbul Café

4

Heirloom Istanbul is a hotel and café-market set in a recently renovated 115-year-old apartment building. Located just five minutes’ walk from Taksim Square, it manages to maintain a tranquil atmosphere even though it’s very central. The café-market is located on the ground floor of the building. Read more ›

by Senem

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Kırıntı Moda

Good food in a cosy atmosphere

Kırıntı Moda

4

Located in the lively Moda district, Kırıntı attracts locals with its American and European dishes, cosy atmosphere and friendly staff. There are also several seaside cafés nearby where locals go to enjoy a drink after their meal. Read more ›

by Hakan

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Fazıl Bey'in Türk Kahvesi

A must for coffee lovers

Fazıl Bey'in Türk Kahvesi

4

Fazıl Bey offers a traditional Turkish coffee experience in the historic Kadıköy Bazaar. These guys produce some of the finest coffee in the city, using antique machines to blend and roast their beans. Locals enjoy coming here to sip excellent coffee and watch the busy Kadıköy streets. Read more ›

by Hakan

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Ortakoy Mosque

Mosque by the Bosphorus

Ortakoy Mosque

3

Ortakoy has a neat little collection of shops and restaurants along narrow windy streets that lead out to the pier. At the pier, the Ortakoy Mosque can be seen jutting out into the Bosphorus, with the Bosphorus bridge in the background. Read more ›

by zulhumar

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Tarihi Fatih Sarmacısı

The Ottoman Palace Dessert

Tarihi Fatih Sarmacısı

3

"Sarma" is the oldest dessert and you can't find this dessert anywhere except Fatih. Fatih Sarmacısı is the best one. This tiny place is located the same place since founded. It has different Turkish desserts like baklava but there is one thing you should not miss, that is "Sarma". Read more ›

by Bora

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Local Experience

Beyoğlu Orientation Walking Tour, Istanbul

Beyoğlu Orientation Walking Tour, Istanbul

(5)

Enrich your time in Istanbul with some valuable insider knowledge early on. Discover special spots to eat, drink, shop and explore in the district of Beyoğlu, and get practical tips to help you explore the city confidently throughout the rest of your stay.

Prices from

30 EUR

Duration

3 h

Languages

English

Prinkipo Dondurma & Cafe

Tasty ice cream & waffles

Prinkipo Dondurma & Cafe

3

This old ice cream shop has been a local favourite for generations. Blueberry is their most popular flavour. Read more ›

by Senem

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Leman Kültür

"I laugh therefore I am"

Leman Kültür

3

“Leman” is a cult humour magazine that’s full of legendary cartoon characters. Its founders also run this two-floor café located just five minutes’ walk from Taksim Square. The walls are plastered with pages from the magazine. Read more ›

by Senem

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Brezilya Kurukahve Kuruyemiş

The oldest coffee shop in the area

Brezilya Kurukahve Kuruyemiş

3

Brezilya Kurukahve Kuruyemiş is known amongst locals as “Brezilya Kahvecisi”, which roughly translates to “Brazilian Coffee Place”. Opened in 1920, its owner was the first local entrepreneur to begin importing coffee from Latin America. The brand is best known for its historical poster ads. Read more ›

by Selin

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Cake House

Not just cakes

Cake House

3

This place looks like a small café where you can enjoy delicious cakes and coffee. It’s definitely true, however, cakes and pastries are just part of what’s actually on the menu. Cake House also serves great soups, salads, burgers and pasta, as well as Turkish dishes. Read more ›

by Senem

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Zencefil

Tasty vegetarian fare

Zencefil

3

Zencefil is one of the oldest, healthiest and best vegetarian restaurants in the city. They serve a variety of Turkish and international dishes. They always use extra virgin olive oil in their food, bake their own bread and use seasonal vegetables and herbs. Read more ›

by Senem

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Brew Coffeeworks

Coffee heaven amid the chaos

Brew Coffeeworks

3

I stumbled upon this sweet blue coffee shop on my way to the Basilica Cistern when I was feeling sleepy. Not only did Brew Coffeeworks help me wake up, it also became my favourite coffee shop in Istanbul. It’s located on the way to all popular tourist attractions such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque from the Eminönü ferry station. Read more ›

by Deniz

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Neden Urfa Şark Sofrası

Why Urfa kebab? Why not?

Neden Urfa Şark Sofrası

3

"Neden Urfa" literally means "Why Urfa?" So, why choose Urfa? "Come and try our kebabs and you will have your answer", says the chef. Neden Urfa brings amazing cuisine from the south-eastern city of Urfa to Istanbul. The appetisers and desserts are as good as the kebabs and are definitely a must! Read more ›

by Hakan

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Whirling Dervishes Ceremony at Istanbul’s Sirkeci Train Station

Whirling Dervishes Ceremony at Istanbul’s Sirkeci Train Station

(0)

Experience a Sufi music concert and Whirling Dervishes ceremony first-hand at Istanbul’s Sirkeci Train Station.

Prices from

15 EUR

Duration

1 h

Languages

English, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, French, Estonian, Japanese, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Portuguese

Hafız Mustafa 1864 Sultanahmet

Turkish sweets! The best!

Hafız Mustafa 1864 Sultanahmet

2

One of the oldest places in Istanbul. Only Turkish sweets (Baklava, Rice pudding, Lukum, Cakes, Triliche, etc...) and also you can try breakfasts here. Traditional recipes make this place one of the best, locals always prefer HaFiz Mustafa! Attention! It can be so much crowded here :) Read more ›

by Maryam

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Apartıman Yeniköy

Gastropub - fresh and healthy in Yeniköy

Apartıman Yeniköy

2

Freshly picked vegetables and fruits in season, carefully created menu. Italian coffee and special sauce potatoes are good at all hours of the day. The bright spot, in Yeniköy, is ideal for relaxing and nourishing to enjoy under the trees on the street. Read more ›

by soho

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Petra Roasting Co.

Nice Coffee Place

Petra Roasting Co.

2

Great place to read a book and enjoy your day. It has also has healthy food options, good coffee and matcha tea. The decoration of the coffee shop is so cool too. It is a peaceful place to spend your free time. Read more ›

by Asli

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MEG Cafe

Be at the heart of Istanbul

MEG Cafe

2

MEG has delicious menus for both lunch and dinner. It has expat and tourist friendly staff that makes you comfortable. Its location is amazing, you are at the heart of Istanbul but on the other hand it helps you to take a breath and relax at a quiet place. Read more ›

by Alican

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Mahatma Cafe

Home made vegan dishes

Mahatma Cafe

2

Yeldeğirmeni is one of the most popular local districts. Actually the district was unpopular and old neighbourhood but its environment has been changed in last 2 years. Mahatma is one of the newest places in the district and it menu full of delicious home made vegan dishes. Read more ›

by Selin

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bubada

Redefining the Art of Sandwich!

bubada

2

bubada is a very new cafe located in the very heart of Kadıköy, one of the booming neighborhoods of Istanbul. It didn't take that long for bubada to become my favorite spot for breakfasts because of their amazing sandwiches and super friendly staff. Everything is so fresh and tasty. Moreover, they bake their own bread, pastries, cakes. You name it! Read more ›

by Hakan

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Cafe & Shop

More than a café, nothing like a shop

Cafe & Shop

2

Locals are drawn to Cafe & Shop by its tranquil atmosphere. It’s not a fancy place, but everything (apart from the service) is relaxed. The décor urges you to sit down and read a book, and the music is really calming. Plus, the staff are always smiling and the food is always top quality and super tasty. Read more ›

Local Experience

Istanbul Artisan Walking Tour

Istanbul Artisan Walking Tour

(2)

Discover both contemporary and age-old arts and crafts alive and thriving in the backstreet workshops of Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district.

Prices from

34 EUR

Duration

3 h

Languages

English

Cafe Nar

Breakfast by the Bosphorus

Cafe Nar

2

Cafe Nar is a great breakfast spot overlooking the Bosphorus near the famous Rumelian Castle. The flavours are wide-ranging, with traditional Turkish breakfasts as well as pancakes and waffles. It’s budget-friendly and the staff are lovely. Read more ›

by Efe

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Okkalı Kahve

Top-quality Turkish coffee

Okkalı Kahve

2

You’ll feel right at home at this cute little coffee house. The staff are lovely and always smiling. The coffee is produced in-house, plus they play nice relaxing music. Locals love the budget-friendly prices. Read more ›

by Yağız

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Gölge Kahve

Peaceful café near Istiklal Avenue

Gölge Kahve

2

Tucked down an alley just off Istiklal Avenue, this spacious café is a great place to escape the bustling crowds. The décor is light and simple, and the soft background music helps you relax. They also have outdoor seating. Read more ›

by Senem

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Mercan Kokoreç

Tasty Turkish fast food

Mercan Kokoreç

2

“What the heck is Kokoreç?” I hear you asking. Well, first of all, it’s one of my favourite local dishes! It’s basically lamb intestines wrapped in seasoned offal. I know it sounds strange, but believe me, it tastes amazing (and it’s cleaned thoroughly). Read more ›

by Hakan

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Trump Cadde

New restaurant & shopping street

Trump Cadde

2

Trump Street recently opened at Trump Towers Shopping Mall, featuring a host of different restaurants and shops. It’s the latest project by Izzet Capa, a well-known name in Istanbul’s nightlife scene. He runs the trendiest restaurants and clubs in the city. Read more ›

by Senem

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Desde Café & Restaurant

A breathtaking view

Desde Café & Restaurant

2

The French writer and poet Alphonse de Lamartine once said: “If I had to take a look at the world for the last time, I would look at Istanbul from Çamlıca". Desde is a café perfectly located at the peak of Çamlıca. Locals come here to smoke water pipes and enjoy tasty cuisine. Read more ›

by Murat

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Otadepe

great place with a view

Otadepe

1

This place is actually on the Asian side of the city, with amazing views looking back onto the European side. It is right after the Bosphorus bridge Fatih Sultan Mehmet on the Asian Side. It is in a quiet neighborhood on top of a steep hill. Read more ›

by zulhumar

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Local Experience

Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner in Istanbul

Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner in Istanbul

(2)

Enjoy a tasty dinner and a traditional Turkish show with live music and belly dancers while cruising on the Bosphorus. Orient Bosphorus is a sophisticated choice for an unforgettable evening of entertainment in Istanbul.

Prices from

49 EUR

Duration

4 h

Languages

English, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, French, Estonian, Japanese, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Portuguese

Klemuri

real blacksea dish in İstanbul

Klemuri

1

Their cornbreads are amazing you should have a soup with it. And try "MIHLAMA" mamma mia. The atmosphere is so nice, we prefer going there after the courses or work. You can share the dishes to taste more food. Read more ›

by Melike

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Pan Yeldegirmeni

Ready for the Breakfast Of Champions!?

Pan Yeldegirmeni

1

Whatever you taste here - morning cocktails, cheese, desserts, even bread - they are either made fresh at Pan or are coming from the origin city all over Anatolia. Pan has a calm atmosphere with its small backyard and uplifting Spotify playlist - perfect for early morning breakfast or a nice afternoon with friends. Read more ›

by Ceren

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Luz Cafe & Shop

A peaceful sanctuary

Luz Cafe & Shop

1

Although it’s located very close to the port, Luz Cafe is a peaceful spot to relax, read, write and chat. Vintage furniture, great local music and a wide selection of delicious teas create a truly charming atmosphere. Read more ›

by Samet

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Holy Coffee

Homely café

Holy Coffee

1

Holy Coffee is located just five minutes’ walk from Galatasaray High School (a popular meeting point on İstiklal Avenue) in Çukurcuma, Istanbul’s antique district. Locals come here to sip excellent coffee and listen to music in homely surrounds. Read more ›

by Senem

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Kale Cafe

Yummy breakfast by the Bosphorus

Kale Cafe

1

Overlooking the Bosphorus, Kale Cafe offers amazing views and simple yet delicious Turkish breakfasts at affordable prices. Locals never leave this place with an empty stomach or a grumpy face. Read more ›

by Koray Kaan

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Renkli Limon

Fresh flavours & a warm atmosphere

Renkli Limon

0

Renkli Limon attracts business people from all over Istanbul. It’s a good choice for those seeking a quiet place for dessert in Beşiktaş. The friendly staff always make you feel at home. Read more ›

by Koray Kaan

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