Where To Have A Drink in Istanbul

Gokce Nacar

Aug 30 776 read

Where To Have A Drink in Istanbul

Even while Istanbul is most known for its mosques and Ottoman history, its vibrant nightlife should not be underrated as well. Istanbul's drinking culture is an important element of the city's culture, and the city's pubs range from creative cocktail bars to fashionable breweries.

I picture mezes (little snacks) on a table, glasses full with anise-flavored rak, and passionate discussions with close friends when I think of a night out in Istanbul. Türkish culture is incomplete without Turkish taverns (meyhanes), but Istanbul's drinking habits go beyond rak. Taksim and Kadıköy used to be the center of Istanbul's pubs and bars, but these days, bars are popping up all over the city, each representing its own neighborhood and providing something unique to consumers, from house-brewed beer to innovative cocktails.

Chicki Boom

Also in Istanbul's poshest area, Chicki Boom is another pub with a reputation for its cocktail specialities. On a Friday night, this is the sort of pub where Istanbul celebrities and high society congregate. Even though the room is tiny, the dimly-lit ambiance is ideal for a romantic night. Arrive early to get a seat. Pour an authentic Zen experience, order the Buddha, which is made from Gin and Ginger mixed with Lemongrass and Clove.

Alexandra Cocktail Bar

Arnavutköy, an ancient but trendy neighborhood on the Bosporus, is home to Alexandra Cocktail Bar, a great place for a drink on a Friday or Saturday evening. This pub appears like an ancient library at first sight, with velvet couches, vintage oak tables, and eccentric wallpaper decorated with bookshelves. There are many house favorites, such as Passiflora, Poseidon, Yuki, LX and Ap-Ranax, which all have unique names. On Friday and Saturday evenings, there are DJ performances, and the rooftop terrace provides a panoramic view of the Bosporus and beyond.

Moretenders Bar

An iconic cocktail bar in Beyoglu has reopened under a new moniker, Moretenders' Cocktail Crib. To quote its slogan, the new pub is "funkier, cozier, and cooler than ever before." The cocktail menu has been updated without sacrificing quality, and bartender Akın Kayışoğlu's Demonic Mix is a fantastic option if you like gin-based drinks. In addition to the maraschino liqueur and cucumber cream, the cocktail also contains Peychaud's bitters. It is not uncommon for bartenders to garnish their drinks with edible animal figurines.

Soho House Istanbul

A small yet compact cocktail menu is available at the exclusive bar of the Soho House Istanbul. Try the Latife, prepared with rakı, vodka, lime, mint, and parsley, if you're feeling adventurous. There is a bar in Soho House Istanbul that is only accessible to club members, however if you don't have a membership, the Allis bar is open to everyone. For a pleasant drink on a summer day, the bar's Apple Collins cocktail combines rum with lemon juice, ginger, and green apple juice.

The Bosphorus, Istiklal Street, or anyplace else is a great place to have a drink! In Istanbul, there are hundreds of bars and pubs to select from. Don’t forget to check iamistambul for the best Istanbul news and historical places!