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!