Refreshing & unexpected: Cocktail bars

Istanbul is known for many things: its cultural heritage and history, the Bosphorus, various restaurants, emerging museums, mansions and palaces, but not for its cocktail bar scene. However, it’s now time to put our heads together and seek out the cocktail bars of Istanbul. Thank you, Kevin. 

• Geyik: Geyik has long been my favorite place to go and have a cocktail before heading home, the staff is always lovely and they do some of the best classic cocktails in town.

Take down the address: Kılıç Ali Paşa Mahallesi Akarsu Yokuşu Sokak No:22, Cihangir 

Try this: Ask for the sourest cocktail

• Soho House Istanbul: I think the bar team at Soho House is also great, and I love having a Martini at the bar there, with the stunning frescoes painted overhead.

Take down the address: Evliya Çelebi Mahallesi Meşrutiyet Caddesi No:56, Pera

Try this: Martini or Picante

• Kaia Bebek: It’s just a great place to let loose, enjoy a cocktail, and dance the night away. A rare find.

Take down the address: Bebek Mahallesi Küçük Bebek Caddesi, Beşiktaş

Try this: Whiskey Sour with sumac 

• Inspired Choice: I love the bitters and cocktail cordials from Inspired Choice in Nisantasi, they make some great products and cocktail kits for cocktail enthusiasts.

Take down the address: Teşvikiye Mahallesi Deryadil Sokak No:71/A, Nişantaşı

Try this: Bitter series

And lastly, some tips on the local spices, liqueurs, and pairings from Kevin: 

• Rakı cocktails are really fantastic, I always recommend people try them in sour cocktails with fruit. The anise is a little more subtle and really refreshing.
• A sumac, Urfa chili flake, and sea salt mix for a margarita rim is seriously delicious, like a Turkish version of the famous Tajin spice mix from Mexico.
• I often use jams and marmalades for cocktail syrups, which can easily be found anywhere in the city.