Istanbul has beautiful places to visit as everybody knows. In nearly all blogs about Istanbul, we have written about historical places or Bazaars in Istanbul. However, we will talk about the best cafes and pubs in Istanbul today!
In order to write about them, I had to have a helping hand who is an expert about the best cafes and pubs in Istanbul. Meet my dear friend from Istanbul, Gülfem. You can follow her on instagram. This blog has been written by her pen. So let’s dive into to the Best Cafes and Pubs in Istanbul you must visit!
NOR. in Moda District of Istanbul
Nor. is a young and energetic cocktail bar located in Moda. It is the best budget friendly cafe in Kadikoy. Nor., which is quite successful in terms of cocktail variety, offers something for everyone’s taste.
It’s impossible not to love their original cocktails, my favorites are Merkur Retrosu, Suicide Hot Line, and Eros Ramozotti. I highly recommend them for those who enjoy cocktails that are easy to drink but high in alcohol content.
Note: If you want to experience a cocktail unique to Turkey, you can order a cocktail version of cacık, which is usually a meze, at Nor. You can click here to reach the google maps link of NOR cafe.
Primitif ( Primitive) Beer Garden – Istanbul Cafes
This bar, located in YoÄŸurtçu Sahil, feels like it’s been stolen from Europe with its spacious garden and the sea just a few steps away. Inside, there are hundreds of beer varieties, especially their collaborations with local craft beer brands are very successful.
There are many beers under the 3 Kafadar brand that are worth trying. Primitif also has its own Primitif Red IPA beer. There are so many beers that it’s almost impossible to make a choice and determine a favorite. This is a must-visit place. You can click here to reach google maps link of Primitif Beer Garder.
Bira Fabrikası ( Beer Factory in English )
This bar, located in Kadıköy Rexx, is in a very important location. To feel like a true Kadikoy local, all you need to do is sit at the tables on the street and sip your beers. While I didn’t find their beer accompaniments particularly impressive, it’s always one of the places to have a couple of beers due to its location. Here is the google maps link of the the bar Bira Fabrikası in Kadikoy.
Fahri Konsolos – Istanbul Cafes
This bar might be the most interesting bar you can find in Kadikoy. Cocktails change according to the season and fresh ingredients, so you encounter a new surprise with each visit.
The cocktail names come from Old Turkish, which even locals may find challenging to pronounce, especially after getting a bit tipsy. Best of luck to your friends who will be ordering after getting a little drunk! 🙂 Click for the google maps link of Fahri Konsolos!
Before leaving for another blog, here is the most asked quesitons about the cafes in Istanbul:
Is Istanbul a foodie city? – Istanbul Cafes
Yes, Istanbul is often considered a paradise for food enthusiasts and is widely regarded as a foodie city. The city’s rich culinary heritage and diverse food scene make it a top destination for those who love to explore and savor different cuisines. Here’s why Istanbul is known as a foodie’s delight:
- Traditional Turkish Cuisine: Istanbul is a gateway to experiencing authentic Turkish cuisine. You can savor dishes like kebabs, mezes, baklava, Turkish delight, and more in the city’s numerous restaurants and street food stalls.
- Street Food: The city is renowned for its delicious street food. You can try simit (a type of sesame-covered bread), balık ekmek (fish sandwiches), mussels stuffed with rice (midye dolma), and various types of dürüm (wraps).
- Local Markets: Istanbul’s markets, such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, offer a vast array of spices, teas, sweets, and snacks that are a feast for the senses.
- International Cuisine: Beyond Turkish cuisine, Istanbul also boasts a diverse range of international restaurants serving everything from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean to European and Asian dishes.
- Cafes and Bakeries: The city is filled with charming cafes and bakeries where you can enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee, tea, or indulge in a variety of pastries and desserts.
- Bosphorus Dining: Dining along the Bosphorus is a unique experience, with many restaurants offering stunning views of the water while you enjoy your meal.
- Food Tours: Istanbul offers food tours that allow you to explore the city’s culinary treasures with the guidance of local experts.
Which area in Istanbul is best for foodies?
For foodies visiting Istanbul, one of the best areas to explore is Kadikoy. Located on the Asian side of the city, Kadikoy offers a diverse and vibrant food scene. You’ll find a wide range of restaurants, street food vendors, cafes, and markets offering both traditional Turkish dishes and international cuisine. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike to indulge in delicious food and explore the culinary delights of Istanbul.
How much is a coffee in Istanbul?
The price of a cup of coffee in Istanbul 2023 can vary depending on where you choose to have it and the type of coffee you order. Here are some approximate price ranges:
- Turkish Coffee: Traditional Turkish coffee can range from 1-2 dollars depending on the location and ambiance of the cafe. Some upscale places may charge more.
- Espresso or Americano: If you prefer espresso-based drinks or Americano, you can expect to pay around 2 to 4 dollars.
- Cappuccino or Latte: These coffee options are often priced between 2 to 4 dollars depending on the place you visit.
- Specialty Coffees: Some cafes offer specialty or artisanal coffees, which can be more expensive, ranging from 3 to 5 dollars or more (rarely).
