Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Best
Nargile Cafes
İstanbullus have perfected the art of
keyif
(quiet relaxation), and practise it at
every possible opportunity. Nargile (water pipe) cafes are
keyif
central, offering
their patrons pockets of tranquility off the noisy and crowded streets. Games of
tavla
(backgammon), glasses of tea, nargiles and quiet conversations are usually
the only distractions on offer.
Ordering a Nargile
You'll need to specify what type of tobacco you would like. Most people opt for
elma
(when the tobacco has been soaked in apple juice, giving it a sweet flavour and scent), but
it's possible to order it unadulterated
(tömbeki)
or in a variety of other fruit flavours. A nar-
gile usually costs between 15 and 25 and can be shared (you'll be given individual
plastic mouthpieces).
Accompaniments
Locals usually drink çay when they are enjoying a nargile, beckoning the waiter over for
regular refills. At the nargile cafes in Tophane, plates of fresh fruit and nuts are set up on
each table - you'll pay for what you eat. Other snacks can be ordered with the waiter.
Best Old City Nargile Cafes
Erenler Çay Bahçesi
Set in the vine-covered courtyard of the Çorlulu Ali Paşa Medrese
near the Grand Bazaar. (
Click here
)
Lale Bahçesi
Located in a sunken courtyard in the shadow of the Süleymaniye Mosque. (
Derviş Aile Çay Bahçesi
A leafy retreat opposite the Blue Mosque. (
Click here
)
