Nail Kitabevi & Cafe Istanbul
Bookstore around the corner
Kuzguncuk, a neighborhood where a church, a mosque and a synagogue stand side by side, is a cosmopolitan mix of Istanbul’s many cultures. Here, on a charming corner you'll find Nail Kitabevi & Cafe in a 19th century baroque and rococo style building, originally designed by famous Armenian architect brothers, Nikoghos and Karapet Balyan. It was a family that worked on over 150 buildings in Istanbul, including Dolmabahçe Palace. Publisher Erhan Nailoğlu converted this historic building from a barber shop after two years of restoration and now it is a place where I come for peace of mind, fine art and a good book.
The two-story bookshop has an extensive collection of books on art, architecture, history, philosophy, literature, music, etc... If you like some caffeine with your Kafka or Orhan Pamuk, do not forget to try their Julius Meinl branded coffee. Grab a coffee and take your pick to the second floor, where a bay window, a picture-perfect reading nook, awaits. Sink into the cushioned seat, lose yourself in your book of choice. In such an inspiring environment, time will rapidly flow through the pages.
About this spot
Find your way with 239 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Istanbul
Firuzan Hanım Çiftliği
Longevity Bites
Firuzan Hanım Çiftliği in serves farm-to-table breakfasts with homemade jams, olives, and olive oil. Enjoy this warm, wholesome spot full of love!
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Minoa Pera
A Literary Haven
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.
by
Cemre
Sandal
CRR Concert Hall
Istanbul's Cultural Hub
From internationally acclaimed jazz masters to dynamic dance performances, the CRR Concert Hall consistently offers top-notch entertainment.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kandilli Suna'nin Yeri
Bosphorus's maritime gem
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.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Homemade Aromaterapi
Natural and vegan products
"Homemade Aromaterapi" is a small, beautiful shop in Kuzguncuk, Istanbul. Come here for cold-pressed essential oils, cleansers, soaps, toothpaste & more!
by
Cemre
Sandal
Kuzguncuk
A neighborhood with unique beauty
"Kuzguncuk" in Istanbul is a uniquely beautiful neighborhood with old colorful houses, mansions and friendly shopkeepers - a sense of connected community.
by
Cemre
Sandal
Chandeliers in Hagia Sophia Mosque
Enlightenment
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!
by
Zekeriya
S. Sen
Lil Bake
Lovely spot for a sweet snack
Lil Bake is a small, lovely spot in the heart of Moda, Istanbul. My favorite used to be the pistachio Paris breast, until I tasted their croissants...
by
Cemre
Sandal
Vogue Restaurant Bar
Molecular cocktails & sushi
"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...
by
Emre
Kamar
Banyan
High-end Asian fusion in Ortakoy
"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.
by
Emre
Kamar
Forno Balat
Friendly cafe in the Golden Horn
"Forno Balat" in Istanbul has amazing breakfast -- the best scrambled eggs and open-buffet and homemade jams I've tasted in Turkey.
by
Emre
Kamar
Heading to Istanbul?
239 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 239 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Istanbul
Get to know our other Spotters from Istanbul
As featured on:
