Setustu Cay Bahcesi

Every once in a while you stumble on a place that locals frequent that has fantastic views. Setustu Cay Bahcesi is one of those places. A tea garden set in Gulhane Park in Istanbul, this cafe sits right along the Bosphorus. For very little money, you can enjoy tea, water, coke or snacks while watching ships sail along the water. The staff let you linger at your leisure and do not try to sell extras.

The price of tea (kisilik) was 6 lira for one serving, 10 lira for two servings, and roughly 4 lira for each additional serving. The tea comes served in a traditional copper pot on a tray, which adds to the effect of sitting by the Bosphorus.

Snacks are also available including sausage, meatballs and potatoes. I noticed some locals had brought their own poppy seed bread called simit to enjoy with their tea.

I would recommend going early during the week when everyone is work. There were only four tables occupied when I visited and it was an amazing experience having unobstructed views of ships on the Bosphorus. I could have sat at my table for hours. All tables are outdoors and there are umbrellas to shield guests from the sun. I lucked out and happened to go on a day when it was sunny and clear so the views were great.

I loved this teahouse as you really are "curbside by the Bosphorus".