Turkish Coffee: A Cultural Tradition Brewed to Perfection in Türkiye

Steeped in centuries of heritage and ritual, Turkish coffee (Türk kahvesi) is more than just a beverage—it’s a symbol of hospitality, cultural identity, and timeless tradition in Türkiye. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013, this distinctive style of coffee preparation and consumption offers a window into the rich social fabric of the country. Whether sipped in a bustling İstanbul café or enjoyed during a tranquil moment in a village home, Turkish coffee delivers an experience as layered and flavorful as its history.

History and Cultural Significance

The tradition of Turkish coffee dates back to the 16th century, during the Ottoman Empire. The drink was first introduced in İstanbul during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, and from there, it spread across the empire and into Europe. Coffeehouses, known as “kıraathane,” became important social hubs where men gathered to discuss literature, politics, and daily life.

Over time, Turkish coffee became an integral part of family life and hospitality. It is still customary today to serve a guest a small cup of strong, foamy coffee alongside a glass of water and a sweet—usually Turkish delight (lokum). Coffee also plays a vital role in traditional marriage customs; during a pre-wedding visit known as “kız isteme,” the bride-to-be prepares and serves Turkish coffee to her prospective in-laws.

Preparation and Taste

Turkish coffee is made using very finely ground Arabica beans, almost powder-like in texture. The coffee is brewed in a small, long-handled pot called a cezve (or ibrik) and typically prepared with cold water and sugar, depending on the drinker’s preference:

• Sade (no sugar)

• Az şekerli (lightly sweetened)

• Orta (medium sweet)

• Şekerli (sweet)

The coffee is not filtered. Instead, it is poured directly into a small porcelain cup (fincan), where the grounds are allowed to settle at the bottom. This gives Turkish coffee its signature strong, thick consistency and rich, earthy taste. It’s not meant to be gulped—rather, it’s savored slowly.

Coffee Fortune Telling (Tasseography)

One of the most beloved traditions associated with Turkish coffee is fortune telling, or fal bakma. After finishing the coffee, the drinker places the saucer over the cup and turns it upside down. Once the grounds have cooled and settled, a fortune teller reads the shapes and patterns formed in the residue, offering insight into the drinker’s future, love life, and more. While not taken too seriously, this playful ritual adds a mystical element to the Turkish coffee experience.

Where to Experience Turkish Coffee in Türkiye

You can enjoy authentic Turkish coffee across every region of Türkiye—from historic coffeehouses in İstanbul’s Grand Bazaar to seaside cafés in İzmir, and traditional teahouses in Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa. Each region may have its own subtle variations, such as adding cardamom or using different roasting methods.

Here are a few top places to try:

• Mandabatmaz (İstanbul): A legendary small café on Istiklal Street, famed for its dense foam and bold flavor.

• Sade Kahve (Emirgan, İstanbul): With Bosphorus views and a historic ambiance, this spot offers the perfect setting.

• Tahmis Kahvesi (Gaziantep): Founded in 1635, one of the oldest coffeehouses in Türkiye.

• Kızlar Kahvesi (Şirince): Set in a charming Aegean village, known for coffee fortune telling.

Turkish Coffee vs. Other Coffees

Turkish coffee differs from espresso or drip coffee in several ways:

• It is unfiltered, which gives it a thicker texture.

• It’s not stirred after brewing; the foam is an important indicator of quality.

• It is always served in small portions and never with milk.

Unlike fast-paced coffee culture, Turkish coffee is a ritual of slowness—a chance to pause, converse, and reflect.

Buying Turkish Coffee

Travelers can purchase pre-ground Turkish coffee in many shops across Türkiye, with popular brands like Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, Nuri Toplar, and Kocatepe offering beautifully packaged options ideal as gifts or souvenirs. Don’t forget to pick up a traditional cezve and a set of fincan cups to bring the Turkish coffee experience home.