Coffee Culture and History in Istanbul

Istanbul holds a distinguished place as a pivotal centre in the heritage of coffee. Do not settle for leaving this captivating city with just a cup of Turkish coffee. Without uncovering the story, the varieties, and the legacy of coffee spanning from the Ottoman era to today, you cannot fully experience Istanbul.

This tour offers more than a single tasting; it takes you on a rich and layered journey bridging the past and present of coffee. You experience both traditional and innovative interpretations, gaining a fresh and profound perspective on coffee culture.

Through the vibrant streets of Kadıköy and Moda, we visit five distinct locations to sample a variety of Turkish coffee styles.

At each stop, we delve into the brewing techniques, history, stories, and cultural significance behind the coffee.

• In a classic coffeehouse, time slows down; you meet local regulars and might even be invited to join a game of backgammon or okey.
• We explore alternative coffee recipes developed during times of scarcity.
• At third-wave coffee shops, we experience non-alcoholic coffee cocktails crafted with specialized brewing techniques, presented with artistry akin to fine art.

In this experience, you do more than just drink coffee;

• You learn how coffee and coffeehouses originated in Istanbul,
• How coffee influenced daily life and politics during the Ottoman era,
• How coffee spread from here to Europe and
• The intricacies of Turkish coffee, its brewing secrets, and cultural significance.

• Individuals who regard coffee not merely as a beverage, but as a cultural journey
• Discerning travellers in search of alternative and authentic experiences in Istanbul
• Culinary enthusiasts interested in gaining first-hand insight into the evolution of coffee culture from tradition to the present
• Those intrigued by the profound meaning behind the adage “A cup of coffee commits one to forty years of friendship”