Cuppa Cafe in Istanbul Focuses on Healthy Food

In a city where many cafes are becoming replicas of each other, Cuppa distinguishes itself by focussing on healthy and natural food.

“It has been in the neighborhood since February of 2006″ says the owner Dinc, who also lives close by. Actually this reality ( owner living in the neighborhood) is very unique for Cihangir. I think it is important since there is even more pressure on the owner to keep the good quality flowing not to be embarrassed by the neighbors who make up the bulk of the visitors.

The athmosphere

Cuppa’s clientele is mainly locals ( I am a frequent also ) who are spending their time eating, chatting and working on their laptops. After a couple of visits here, you will notice the same faces. I think this is proof that good food is served here.

Remember those very touristic restaurants in Sultanahmet? How can you be sure about what you will be served when the owner knows you will probably only eat there once? Well this is not how it works in Cihangir. Same faces mean more pressure on the owner.

Another good thing is the service personnel — they are here since the opening and this too adds to the family athmosphere.

You can order a coffee and work with your laptop for hours and trust me, nobody will bother you to order another drink.

I have tried “Super Juice” with a mozzarella and salmon sandwich lately and they go great with each other. The mozzarella was fresh and milky and the salmon was just the right color and taste. The bread was toasted and spread with pesto sauce. It comes with salad but I have replaced it with french fries as seen on the picture.

Tip of the day: “Super Juice” is a mix of orange, pear, grapefruit and apple. The trick is not to make it too sweet by adding too much apple.