DC Total Care - Best Coffee Shops in Istanbul for a Relaxing Afternoon

Table of Contents

1 10 Must-Visit Coffee Shops in Istanbul
2 So, Where to Next?
3 FAQ
4 You Might Also Like

When you think of Istanbul, the first things that come to mind are probably the bustling markets, historic mosques, and the Bosphorus strait. But let me tell you, as someone who’s called this city home for a few years now, Istanbul’s coffee shop scene is something else. It’s become my little ritual, finding a new spot every week to hunker down with my laptop or just a good book, and let the afternoon slip away. I’ve been meaning to share my findings for a while now, so here it is – my guide to the best coffee shops in Istanbul for a relaxing afternoon.

I remember when I first moved here from the Bay Area, I was a bit sceptical. Could Istanbul really match up to San Francisco’s coffee culture? But I was in for a surprise. Istanbul’s coffee scene is not just about the brew; it’s about the experience, the atmosphere, the history. And after a few months of exploring, I was hooked. There’s something incredibly satisfying about discovering a new coffee shop, isn’t there? The aroma, the chatter, the clink of cups – it’s like a little dance, and every caf has its own rhythm.

So, why am I sharing this now? Well, I’ve had a lot of friends and patients at DC Total Care ask me for recommendations, and I found myself repeating my list so often that I thought it was time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard, as the case may be). Plus, I think it’s a great way to show off a side of Istanbul that doesn’t always get the spotlight. So, grab a cup of your favourite brew, and let’s dive in.

10 Must-Visit Coffee Shops in Istanbul

Mandabatmaz

Let’s start with a classic, shall we? Mandabatmaz is one of those places that everyone knows about, but I couldn’t not include it. Tucked away in a side street off Istiklal Avenue, this tiny caf has been serving up Turkish coffee since 1967. The name translates to ‘buffalo won’t sink’, referring to the thick, velvety foam that tops their coffee. It’s cash only, and it’s always packed, but it’s an experience you can’t miss. I mean, who knows, you might even spot a buffalo sinking into your coffee foam, right?

Kronotrop

From traditional to third wave, Kronotrop is a completely different ball game. This place is all about the beans. They roast them in-house, and you can taste the difference. It’s a bit out of the way, in Cihangir, but it’s worth the trek. The space is industrial-chic, with big shared tables and a cute little courtyard out back. I can (and often do) spend hours here, working or just people-watching. Their cold brew is a lifesaver in the summer, and their banana bread is the stuff of legends.

Caf Rumist

If you’re looking for a bit of boho charm, Caf Rumist is your spot. It’s in Cukurcuma, an antiques district with winding cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. The caf itself is tiny, but it’s got a great little terrace out front. Their menu is organic and ever-changing, and they’ve got a great selection of teas if you’re not in the mood for coffee. I love this place for a lazy Sunday afternoon, sipping on a latte and watching the world go by. But is it just me, or is it always a bit tricky to find? I swear, I get lost every time I try to go!

Karabatak

Speaking of getting lost, Karabatak is another one of those places that’s a bit off the beaten path. But once you find it, you’ll be glad you did. It’s in Karaky, which is a bit of a hipster haven these days, but Karabatak keeps it real. It’s a laid-back spot with a great view of the Galata Tower, and their coffee is top-notch. Plus, they’ve got a killer avocado toast. I can’t count the number of times I’ve come here for brunch and ended up staying all afternoon.

Minoa

Now, Minoa is a bit of a new kid on the block, but it’s already made a name for itself. It’s in Besiktas, right by the ferry terminal, and it’s got a gorgeous view of the Bosphorus. The space is light and airy, with big windows and lots of greenery. Their coffee is great, but their real claim to fame is their breakfast spread. It’s a feast, and it’s not to be missed. I’m torn between keeping this place a secret and shouting about it from the rooftops. But ultimately, I think it’s too good not to share.

Petra Roasting Co.

If you’re a bit of a coffee snob (and let’s face it, who isn’t these days?), you’ll want to check out Petra Roasting Co. They take their beans seriously, and it shows. The space is minimalist, with a sleek white counter and not much else. But who needs fancy decor when the coffee is this good? I love their pour-over, and their espresso tonic is a game-changer on a hot day. Plus, they’ve got a great selection of beans to take home. I always end up leaving with a bag or two.

Norm Coffee

Norm Coffee is another spot that’s all about the beans. They roast their own, and they’ve got a rotating selection of single origins to try. The space is cosy, with a big communal table and a few smaller ones tucked away in the corners. I love this place for a quiet afternoon with a good book. Their cortado is my go-to, but their filter coffee is great too. And if you’re feeling peckish, their pastries are the perfect accompaniment.

Cuma

If you’re looking for a bit of a change of pace, Cuma is a great option. It’s a caf by day and a bar by night, so it’s perfect for those days when you want to ease into your evening plans. The space is eclectic, with mismatched furniture and a big outdoor terrace. Their coffee is great, but their cocktails are even better. I love this place for a lazy afternoon that turns into a lively evening. And their meze plates are the perfect accompaniment to whatever you’re drinking.

Demkaran

If you’re after a bit of a taste of history with your coffee, Demkaran is the place to go. It’s in the Balat neighbourhood, which is known for its colourful buildings and winding streets. The caf itself is in an old Greek house, and it’s got a beautiful garden out back. Their menu is organic and locally sourced, and their coffee is delicious. I love this place for a quiet afternoon, soaking up the sun in the garden. But maybe I should clarify, it’s not always quiet – on weekends, they’ve got live music that brings in a crowd.

Velvet Cafe

Last but not least, we’ve got Velvet Cafe. This place is a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away in a side street in Moda. It’s a cosy spot, with a big communal table and a few smaller ones tucked away in the corners. Their coffee is great, and their food is even better. I love their breakfast spread, and their avocado toast is the stuff of dreams. Plus, they’ve got a great selection of homemade cakes and pastries. I can (and often do) spend hours here, working or just chatting with friends.

So, Where to Next?

And there you have it – my top picks for a relaxing afternoon coffee shop hop in Istanbul. But let’s be real, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Istanbul’s coffee scene is always evolving, and there are new spots popping up all the time. So, where to next? Maybe I should clarify, I’m always on the lookout for recommendations. If you’ve got a favourite spot that I haven’t mentioned, I’d love to hear about it.

In the meantime, I hope this guide has given you a taste of what Istanbul has to offer. And remember, it’s not just about the coffee – it’s about the experience. So, grab a friend, pick a spot, and settle in for an afternoon of good conversation, great coffee, and who knows what else. After all, that’s what Istanbul is all about – the unexpected, the delightful, the unforgettable.

FAQ

Q: What’s the best way to order a Turkish coffee?
A: When ordering a Turkish coffee, you’ll usually be asked how much sugar you want. ‘Sade’ means plain, no sugar, ‘az ekerli’ is a little sugar, ‘orta ekerli’ is medium sugar, and ‘ekerli’ is sweet. If you’re not sure, medium is a good place to start.

Q: Are there any coffee shops with good views?
A: Absolutely! Minoa has a gorgeous view of the Bosphorus, and Karabatak has a great view of the Galata Tower. If you’re looking for a rooftop spot, check out Georges Hotel Galata – their rooftop bar has a stunning view of the city.

Q: What’s the best time of day to visit a coffee shop in Istanbul?
A: It depends on what you’re after. Mornings are great for a quiet coffee and a bit of people-watching. Afternoons are perfect for a leisurely lunch or a catch-up with friends. And evenings can be a great time to experience the more lively side of Istanbul’s coffee scene, with live music and events.

Q: Are there any coffee shops with good food?
A: Yes, lots! Minoa has a fantastic breakfast spread, and Velvet Cafe has great food all day long. Cuma also has delicious meze plates, and Kronotrop’s banana bread is not to be missed.

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