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.