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.
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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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Borboleta welcomes you with the warmth and comfort of home and yet with an elegant service like you belong to a royal community.
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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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"Homemade Aromaterapi" is a small, beautiful shop in Kuzguncuk, Istanbul. Come here for cold-pressed essential oils, cleansers, soaps, toothpaste & more!
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"Kuzguncuk" in Istanbul is a uniquely beautiful neighborhood with old colorful houses, mansions and friendly shopkeepers - a sense of connected community.
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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 "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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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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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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"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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"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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236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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