It wasn’t long after coffee was discovered in Ethiopia that it reached Yemen. And then it wasn’t long until export from the region (specifically Al-Mukha (or Mocha)) started. History claims that when the Ottomans conquered Yemen in 1517, they brought back this wonderful drink with them. And now this drink is one of the most if not the most loved drink in the country. And that is what we now know as the Turkish coffee. Uniquely, it is prepared like no other coffee – it is boiled as opposed to brewed or mixed with hot water.
Where is the best place to get Turkish coffee from in Istanbul?
Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, founded in 1871, is quite possibly the most popular Turkish coffee brand. You’ll find numerous branches across the country and their ground coffee in all the supermarkets, even outside of the country. Check your local Turkish, you will find it there!
Early on, Turkish coffee beans were sold raw and then customers would have to roast them themselves at home. Mehmet Efendi, was one of the pioneers to introduce the concept of already ground and roasted coffee.
Read more about this historical Turkish company here.
They have a few branches in the city, but the best one, according locals, is the one at Egyptian Spice Market (just outside). You’ll see a long queue of customers, but don’t worry it actually moves super quick and you’ll be served before you can decide how much you want. The staff inside literally work like clockwork, it is actually so soothing and a joy to watch them do their thing.
Getting There:
Google Maps Location link: click here
