The Turkish Tea is usually different when compared to other teas all over the world. We usually drink our tea (don't get me wrong I am a coffee guy) from dried black tea leaves generally coming from the East Black Sea coast.
The tea is boiled for hours and hence its more dense, strong and black. It's usually softened with extra hot water or left along with a more strong taste. This is the basically the daily drink of most of the Turks, usually a couple per person depending on the occupation, even a dozen.
Tea is served during breakfasts and after each meal (even dinner). Actually there is no time frame for consuming tea in Turkey. It's the first thing offered to anyone visiting anywhere.
It's a reflection of hospitality, kindles that evolves eventually into a nice conversation. In the documented photo above you see an empty glass of Turkish tea. This is the general serving utensils, the red/white striped lower plate is like a trademark, the slim, delicate glass is very important for the tea tradition. The glass should be thin and should be delicate like "the waist of a beautiful lady" as some locals quote.
The best places to have such tea would be in small local tea houses that are traditional and not touristic. You can find such places in the Sultan Ahmet Area on the back streets.
Sultanahmet
Tea (glass):
TL
2
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Despite the passage of time they continue to stand proudly, showing the spirit of Istanbul and its ability to embrace the old while welcoming the new.
by
What's even more impressive is that the Tatar and Ukranian owners of Poltory are writers themselves. You can feel the passion for literature in every nook.
by
Vertical is a food hall that boasts an eclectic array of diverse cuisines, but what truly sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to sustainability.
by
I am not a fan of cappuccino, but I am glad I've tried at "Klar Coffee" in Istanbul, as it might be the first time I have truly enjoyed it...
by
Who needs a pricy Bosphorus tour when there are local ferry lines? The "Anadolu Kavağı-Üsküdar Line" is perfect to see the Anatolian side of Istanbul...
by
"Barto's Burger Place" in Istanbul has already made a name for itself among the city's gourmets and burger lovers. Try their homemade cheese and sauces!
by
"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
"Yeşil Mavi Cafe" offers you the best views of Bosphorus in Üsküdar & even across Istanbul, especially during the sunset. Get a cold drink under the trees!
by
The best way to get to the beautiful neighborhood of Balat in Istanbul is to take a ferry of the "Haliç Line" - just get off at Fener Pier...
by
Take the ferry on the "Rumeli Kavağı-Eminönü Line" in Istanbul which goes by most popular neighborhoods on the European side! Why get stuck in traffic?
by
"Dondurmacı Ali Usta" in Istanbul has a lot of ice cream flavors, and they even let you combine two flavors in one scoop. Also: very reasonably priced!
by
"Tatar Salim" is one of the best döner restaurants in Istanbul - they only serve döner as the main dish; it's prepared with 100% specially marinated meat!
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