Hey there! So, I recently had the pleasure of visiting a unique bookstore in Cukurcuma, Poltory, which exclusively books in Russian and Ukrainian.

Poltory Bookstore greets you with an awesome graffiti of Joseph Brodsky, the famous writer and poet. The bookstore is actually 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 own 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 adds to the cozy vibes. What’s 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 nature of Istanbul, I can’t recommend Poltory enough. Check their Instagram account for more.