Hey there! So, I recently had the pleasure of visiting a unique bookstore in Cukurcuma, Poltory, which sells books exclusively in Russian and Ukrainian.
Poltory Bookstore greets you with an awesome graffiti of Joseph Brodsky, the famous writer and poet. The bookstore is named after his Nobel prize-winning book – “In a Room and a Half (Poltory Komnaty)”. It immediately caught my attention and got me curious. The book is about Brodsky’s experience of isolation through his description of his family home in a Soviet communal apartment. Today, this old apartment is a museum in the poet's hometown, St. Petersberg.
Poltory isn't just a regular bookstore—it's a cultural hub! They hold exhibitions, adding an artistic twist to the whole experience. They also serve fresh coffee, tea, and yummy sweets that add to the cozy vibes. Even more impressive is that the Tatar and Ukranian owners of Poltory are writers themselves. You can feel their passion for literature in every nook. They've created a space where book lovers can come together and share their love for words in the most stunning neighborhood of Istanbul.
I left Poltory feeling inspired and proud of this hidden gem, showcasing its openness and embracing the diversity of cultures. The sense of community and cultural exchange that the place fosters is amazing. If you're looking for a unique and enriching experience right in the heart of the cosmopolitan Çukurcuma Neighborhood, I can't recommend Poltory enough. Check their Instagram account for more.
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Thanks to Boden, it is now possible to find a chic ambiance, tasty cocktails, food and reasonable prices all in one place in Kadıköy.
by
Among the hustle and bustle of Beyoğlu lies a hidden gem with breathtaking views at the rooftop of the Research Center for Anatolian Civilizations.
by
Filiz Restaurant’s kitchen specializes in both seafood and various delectable mezes. Personally, I always start with the cold appetizers...
by
Frankestayn Kitabevi celebrates gender, feminism, and the voice of marginalized authors and it's a hidden gem in the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoglu.
by
Hasanpaşa Gashouse, which has been providing the Kadıköy District for 130 years with gas, has finally opened as a cultural centre and a museum...
by
The real highlight of Bohem's Coffee wasn't just its ambiance or décor—it was the genuine warmth of the owner.
by
Kadıköy-Moda Tramway operates as a clockwise circular route, departs from a point close to Kadıköy Pier, and goes to Moda Street.
by
At Az Çok Thai, the dishes are inspired by the street food versions of the main dishes, the menu covers all the Thai classics and it's simply delicious.
by
Batard offers a diverse menu showcasing international and Turkish flavors prepared with a modern twist. Their dishes are defined as "Eclectic Cuisine".
by
This is a place where creativity and storytelling meet. As the writer Orhan Pamuk says, ‘I will build a museum, and its catalogue will be a novel’.
by
At the heart of Local Makers Shop's philosophy lies a commitment to slow shopping, a celebration of the artisanal, and an embrace of handmade designs.
by
From hand-painted items by women in India to collections that promote a global and inclusive design, they truly showcases the beauty of cultural exchange.
by
236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 236 Insider Tips