Starbucks surpasses 500 stores in Turkey
Starbucks reached the milestone with the opening of the Narmanli Han
18 years after first arriving in Istanbul, Starbucks has reached a historic new milestone, having just opened Turkey’s 500th store, the Narmanli Han. Epitomising Starbucks continued growth in the region, the unique store design combines historic architecture with the familiarity and sense of community the Starbucks Experience is known for.
Situated on the famous Istiklal Avenue, the store is based in the heart of Istanbul, an area popular with tourists and affectionately referred to as Istanbul’s “Champs-Élysées”. The location is of special significance for Starbucks as its 200th store in Turkey is also located on the same street, in Taksim Square.
Built in 1831, the store’s unique design – created by Swiss-Italian architects, Gaspare and Giuseppe Fossati – takes inspiration from Istanbul’s renowned architecture. The historic building has undergone significant renovation projects over recent years, maintaining elements of local heritage, while embracing the latest in Starbuck innovation. Set over two floors, the Narmanli Han is equipped with digital menu boards and the latest Mastrena espresso machines, complimenting the store’s modern furnishings. On the second-floor, guests can enjoy the view of the surrounding areawhile experiencing the local atmosphere from the balcony. While outside, customers can relax in a large courtyard, complete with a distinctive water feature to soothe the senses.
To complete the bespoke Starbucks Experience, the store serves a range of traditional Turkish coffee. Steeped in heritage and treasured by locals, Turkish coffee plays an important role in social gatherings and is an integral part of the local culture. Despite the name, ‘Turkish Coffee’ actually refers to the preparation process, rather than the coffee itself, which in fact coming from Central and South America. These coffee beans are roasted, then ground into a fine powder, before being combined with water and sugar. The coffee is made in a “cezve”, or Turkish coffee pot, and served in small cups where the grounds are allowed to settle, before being enjoyed.
However you have your coffee at the Narmanli Han, it will be expertly and passionately handcrafted and made with the world’s highest quality Arabica coffee, all of which is verified as 99 percent ethically sourced through its Coffee and Farmer Equity (C.A.F.E.) Practices programme, developed in partnership with Conservation International.
For locals and tourists alike, this Turkish showstopper is ready is to take your order.
