This might just change your routine: Turkey’s coffee obsession is no longer just about the thick, sediment-laden cup brewed in a cezve. For centuries, the ritual of Turkish coffee has defined the nation’s identity, but now, a quiet revolution is underway. Younger Turks are flocking to espresso bars, filter coffee shops, and milk-based drinks, while cities outside Istanbul are becoming hubs for specialty coffee. The clash of tradition and innovation isn’t just a trend—it’s a cultural shift.
At the heart of this transformation is a growing appreciation for quality, freshness, and brewing methods. “Turkish coffee isn’t meant to be consumed in a rush,” says Tuncer Akgün, CEO of Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, one of the world’s oldest roasters. Yet, he acknowledges that espresso and filter coffee are now part of daily life, especially among younger generations. The International Coffee Organisation reports Turkey’s consumption has surged 15.6% annually, with instant coffee driving much of the growth. But the rise of specialty coffee—marked by lighter roasts, single-origin beans, and barista-driven experiences—is redefining how Turks engage with the drink.
Cities like Ankara, Izmir, and Eskişehir are now hotspots for specialty coffee culture, rivaling Istanbul’s dominance. “The cezve is still king,” says Taylan Kurt of Spada Roastery, “but people are starting to care about how their coffee is made.” This shift is fueled by a generation that views coffee as more than a daily ritual. For them, it’s a social space, a form of self-expression, and a way to connect with global trends. Brands like Espressolab and 1401 Coffee are capitalizing on this demand, expanding globally with plans for hundreds of international stores. Even Turkish barista champions are making waves abroad, like Serkan Sagsoz, who sold a Panama-winning coffee lot for over $30,000 per kilogram in Dubai.
Yet challenges remain. The gap between traditional and specialty coffee persists, with many still viewing coffee as a commodity rather than an art. “Quality isn’t yet a priority for everyone,” Taylan notes. Bridging this divide requires education, innovation, and a commitment to brewing techniques that honor Turkey’s heritage while embracing the future.
Cities beyond Istanbul are becoming key players in the specialty coffee scene, fueled by a new generation that values quality and experience.
Key points: Turkish coffee remains culturally iconic, but younger consumers are driving demand for specialty methods like espresso and filter brews. Cities beyond Istanbul are becoming key players in the specialty coffee scene, fueled by a new generation that values quality and experience. Turkish brands are expanding globally, blending tradition with innovation to carve out a niche in international markets.
What’s your favorite way to sip coffee—traditional or modern? How do you think Turkey’s coffee culture will evolve in the next decade?
Questions & Answers
What is specialty coffee?
Specialty coffee is high-quality, ethically sourced beans with unique flavor profiles. It’s graded for taste, aroma, and origin, often from small farms.
Why is specialty coffee popular in Turkey?
Specialty coffee is popular in Turkey due to rising consumer demand for quality, unique flavors, and a growing café culture. It’s seen as a premium, experience-driven drink.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
