The Coffee Rivalry: How Istanbul’s Coffee Culture Influenced Europe

From Ottoman Coffeehouses to European Cafés—A Story of Power, Trade, and Tradition

Coffee Comes to Istanbul

In the 16th century, coffee arrived in Istanbul and quickly became more than just a drink—it was a social tradition, a political tool, and later, a valuable trade good. Ottoman coffeehouses were places where people gathered to talk, share news, and enjoy music and poetry. Meanwhile, European traders and travelers became fascinated with this exotic drink, leading to a quiet but fierce rivalry over coffee.

This is the story of how Istanbul’s coffee culture spread to Europe—and how it changed history.

1. The Rise of Ottoman Coffeehouses

• First coffeehouse in Istanbul: Opened in 1554 in Tahtakale, near the Grand Bazaar.

• A new kind of social space: Unlike taverns (which served alcohol), coffeehouses were places for conversation, games, and storytelling.

• Why rulers were suspicious: Some sultans worried that people were plotting rebellions in coffeehouses. At one point, coffee was even banned—but people kept drinking it in secret.

  
  

Where to see this history today: Visit Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi in Eminönü, one of Istanbul’s oldest coffee sellers, still operating since 1871.

A postcard from the 19th Century, showing a coffee house

2. How Coffee Reached Europe

• Venetian traders smuggled coffee beans out of Istanbul in the early 1600s, introducing Europe to this new drink.

• The Pope’s approval: At first, some religious leaders called coffee "the Devil’s drink." But after tasting it, Pope Clement VIII reportedly said it was too good to ban.

• The Vienna connection: When the Ottomans failed to conquer Vienna in 1683, they left behind sacks of coffee. This led to the opening of Europe’s first coffeehouses—and even the invention of the croissant (said to be shaped like the Ottoman crescent moon as a joke).

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Fun fact: The word "coffee" comes from the Arabic "qahwa," which passed through Turkish as "kahve" before becoming "coffee" in English.

3. Ottoman vs. European Coffee Culture

Ottoman Coffeehouses	European Cafés
People sat on cushions	Chairs and tables
Served with Turkish delight	Served with pastries
Focused on conversation & music	Became centers for business & politics

Legacy: The coffeehouse model spread across Europe, helping create modern café culture.

4. Where to Experience Istanbul’s Coffee History Today

• Mandabatmaz (Beyoğlu): Famous for its thick, traditional Turkish coffee.

• Pierre Loti Café (Eyüp): A historic spot with beautiful views of the Golden Horn.

• Grand Bazaar: Many old shops still sell coffee the traditional way.

What to order: Ask for "bir kahve, orta şekerli" (one coffee, medium sugar).

Conclusion: A Drink That Changed the World

From Istanbul’s bustling coffeehouses to Parisian cafés, coffee has shaped social life for centuries. Next time you drink a cup, remember—it all started with beans traded in the shadow of the Grand Bazaar.

Want to learn more? Book a private tour with me to explore Istanbul’s most famous coffee spots and hear more stories from the past!