Food & drink · 3 min read
How to order Turkish coffee in Istanbul
What to ask for when ordering, why sweetness is chosen first and how to drink the cup without the grounds.
Turkish coffee makes a useful pause between visits. The cup is small and the grounds settle at the bottom. If you know how sweet you want it before the coffee is made, the rest of the order is straightforward.
Choose your sweetness before brewing
Ask for sade if you want no sugar, orta if you want medium sweetness or şekerli if you want it sweet. Say the preference when ordering because the sugar can be added during preparation. If several people at the table want different levels, give each preference separately.
Give the grounds time to settle
The coffee is brewed with finely ground coffee and served unfiltered. Take small sips, and stop when you reach the sediment at the bottom. A glass of water may come alongside. Follow the pace of your own table rather than worrying about a strict sequence.
Turn it into a conversation
UNESCO’s entry describes Turkish coffee as part of hospitality and social life. In a busy café, order what you want and make space for the people around you. If the person you are with wants to take their time, a short coffee stop can easily become the quietest part of the afternoon.
Use the menu to choose the right drink
If you want filtered coffee or a drink with milk, ask the café what it serves. Turkish coffee is a particular preparation. Check whether any sweets are included or sold separately, and ask about ingredients if you have an allergy or dietary requirement.
Sources and further reading
- UNESCO — Turkish coffee culture and tradition
- Ministry of Culture and Tourism — Turkish coffee preparation and sweetness
- Türkiye Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry — Allergen disclosure for food service
Some linked sources are published in other languages.
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