Jazz Bars in Istanbul

Gokce Nacar

Jul 21 2063 read

Jazz Bars in Istanbul

Contrary to common perception, jazz music has a long history in Istanbul, dating back over a century. We don't know who brought jazz to Istanbul, but we do know that it was popular among Levantines and White Russian immigrants. Furthermore, several jazz music ensembles performing in Beyoglu are featured in books set around the Mudanya Armistice period (Post-World War I)

Without a doubt, jazz did not originate in Istanbul. There are few cities, however, that represent the essence of jazz music as well as Istanbul. As a result, the pleasure of listening to jazz music in Istanbul is difficult to duplicate anywhere. In Istanbul, there are numerous venues where jazz music is played. In this guide, I've compiled a list of the Best Places to Listen to Jazz and Blues in Istanbul.

Bablyon Bomonti

When it comes to live performances, one of the first locations that springs to mind is Babylon Bomonti, which used to be situated in Asmalimescit in Beyoglu. Babylon first opened its doors in 1999 and has remained in the same location ever since. Babylon was named one of the World's Best 100 Jazz Clubs by the renowned jazz magazine Downbeat in 2002 and 2004. At Babylon Bomonti, which seats 400 people, famous jazz singers and ensembles such as Ilhan Ersahin, Aydin Esen, David Murrey Quarted, and Patricia Barber play. Furthermore, in contrast to many other venues, its sound system is intended to avoid disturbing its crowd.

In summary, Babylon is a well-known venue in Istanbul where you can enjoy excellent live acts. And, more recently, Babylon started serving its guests in Sisli's Bomonti area.

Kaset Mittanni

Mitanni Jazz was the name of the Kaset Mitanni that opened in Besiktas. It's one of the few locations where you can go for excellent music, drinks, or food. Sarp Maden plays frequently at Mitanni, and live jazz music is played at Mitanni Jazz at least once a week. Mitanni's drink and food selection, in addition to the music, attracts attention. On days when there is no concert, Mitanni may be described as a very calm and serene location. As a result, if you want to get away from the hectic and loud Istanbul life and read a book in a peaceful and quiet environment while listening to soothing jazz music, here is the place to go. As a result, you should certainly pay a visit to Kaset Mitanni.

Nardis Jazz Club

Nardis, one of the most popular venues for live performances, hosts local and international jazz musicians. Ece Goksuz Quarted, Hacettepe Jazz Band, Los Amigos de Herman, and Burak Bedikyan Trio are some of the great singers and bands you may see at Nardis Jazz Club. New ensembles and orchestras are given precedence at Nardis Jazz Club, unlike many other venues.

It's worth noting that live performances, singers, and bands aren't the only things that draw people to Nardis Jazz Club. Nardis Jazz Club offers a diverse drink selection, to say the least. In contrast to many other locations, the sound level is not too loud to upset the crowd, and the acoustics of the venue are designed to convey sound evenly and clearly to every part of the venue. This bar is situated in Galata, not far from the famous Galata Tower. In addition, some of the finest bars for amusement can be found in this neighborhood.

49 Cukurcuma

49 Cukurcuma, a jazz bar in Cihangir, distinguishes out with its unique idea and design, and it's definitely one of the finest locations to hear jazz music, if not a fantastic live performance. In reality, reading the sign at the door "Pizza, Coffee, Jazz" gives you a sense of it. It's also one of the few locations in Beyoglu where you can get away from the city's hustle and bustle. 49 Cukurcuma provides excellent meals to its clients in addition to a quiet and tranquil environment. The restaurant's pizza menu is extensive, and you may order a variety of pizzas that you won't find anywhere else. 49 Cukurcuma is your best option if you're searching for a location to relax and eat excellent cuisine.