It sounds like an oxymoron but it's true: Cafe Setup is so stylish & cool decorated, and the staff is also very hospitable both to the guests and to their pet friends. Being located in the heart of Kabatas in Istanbul, it is very easy to reach by public transport.
Setup is a totally summer spot, but the winter nights are more fun because they set up burn barrels in the street to keep you warm and gather around with friends.
It's a good option for each time of the day. They offer a wide selection for breakfast: Menemen is my favorite, try it and you won't regret it. There's also a variety of sidedishes in the menu that go well with beer. And the chestnut cake!!! Apart from the delicious coffee, tasting it is a must.
Setup also has a great Burger House (Setup Burger) and modern Turkish Meyhane (Setup Deli) a couple of buildings up ahead. They are good 'after' options. I love having a long Sunday brunch in Cafe Setup, then after chilling there for a couple more hours, when it's raki o'clock, moving on to Setup Deli for the next step...
The Bosphorus view with the Maiden's Tower, ships and boats, and a great landscape are all bonuses!
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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"Müz Botanik & Kahve" in Istanbul is a plant shop, workshop space, cafe & design store in Istanbul. Just the name 'muse' was enough for me to fall in love.
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"Sobremesa Coffee" in Istanbul's Besiktas: great for meeting friends w/ coffee or working on the laptop. Its name is a Spanish word which is a perfect fit!
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"Nail Kitabevi & Cafe" in Istanbul is in a historical baroque, rococo-style building. I come here for peace of mind and a nice cup of coffee with my book!
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"Firuze İKSV" in Istanbul is a beautiful place for meze, cocktail and raki with a modern twist. It has a stunning view over the Golden Horn - how lovely!
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"Dem Kadıköy" is cheesecake heaven in Istanbul. They've got more than 35 different types (!) and all of them are inspired by some Japanese tea on the menu.
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"Craft Beer Lab" in Istanbul is a brand new pub with a big beautiful garden and a huge selection of beers. I know where I'll be brining my friends now!
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"Jacqueline Cookies" Istanbul: my favorite cookies, period, even though they're much more American than Turkish. Try the Extra Dark Chocolate & Pecan Nut.
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236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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