"I don't know what you think about eating, but breakfast must have something to do with happiness!" says my favorite Turkish poet Cemal Sureya. Breakfast is a big deal here and especially if it's a rainy Sunday, you can keep eating forever! Cuma is my favorite spot for a long brunch or a coffee & dessert pleasure.
It is located in Çukurcuma, Cihangir, Istanbul's antique, cosy neighbourhood. Çukurcuma is famous for its antique stores and street cats, so walking around is always full of surprises.
Cuma is a very good option for every occasion. Delicious breakfasts with your special one; gathering around a long table with friends for a long brunch; stopping by for coffee & cake; a sophisticated dinner experience, and so on...
There are tons of great, interesting choices for breakfast and lunch in the menu--something for everyone, traditional as well as more adventurous. I love it! They work miracles with eggs: their scrambled eggs with goat cheese on toasted sourdough bread is a must-taste. Their grilled mozzarella, prosciutto and arugula sandwich is also a very good option. When you are in the mood for something sweet, a pancake, fresh fruits and honey will make your day.
Despite the very well decorated interior, as an outdoor person I prefer sitting in the outdoor seating area, and since they have patio heaters, you can enjoy being in the open air even in winter.
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The café, nestled among the bookshelves, serves as a cosy refuge where one can savour their coffee while getting lost in the pages of a newfound gem.
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From internationally acclaimed jazz masters to dynamic dance performances, the CRR Concert Hall consistently offers top-notch entertainment.
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Suna'nin Yeri's commitment to sourcing only the finest seafood is evident in every bite. Everything that is served here is fresh and sourced daily.
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The "Tortoise Trainer" is one of my favorite paintings to be found in Istanbul. You can see it in the contemporary/orientalist Istanbul Pera museum.
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The "Pera Museum" is for you if you're into art from the life of Istanbul and the Ottoman world between the 17th and early 20th century...
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The "Chandeliers in Istanbul's Hagia Sophia" have their own little recent story which is good to remember whenever you pay a visit... Lighting is key!
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With it large garden and lovely ambience, "Primitif Birahane" in Istanbul resembles 'biergartens' in Germany, though here you will find plenty of cats...
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"Banyan" is my bar/restaurant of choice in Istanbul's Ortaköy for a drink or dinner after work. In their terrace you'll feel as if you're on a ship's deck.
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"Vogue Restaurant Bar" is one of Istanbul's higher end spots. The food is great, but I would recommend the signature (molecular) cocktails. How about...
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236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters