About this spot
Hayat Cafe in Karaköy serves kebab the way Turkey intended — not the late-night döner you know, but proper grilled meat with perfect char, served with lavash bread and grilled peppers. This is kebab's homeland.
💡 Tips before you go
- Adana kebab (spicy minced meat) and Urfa kebab (mild) are the essential pair
- Bread is sacred in Turkey — never throw it away or put it on the ground
- Ayran (salted yogurt drink) is the traditional kebab pairing, not cola
Videos
Common Questions
Where is Hayat Cafe?
It's in Karaköy, Istanbul.
Do I need to speak Turkish?
English common in tourist areas of Istanbul. At local lokantas, pointing at the display works perfectly. Staff are exceptionally hospitable.
What should I order?
Adana kebab if you like spice, Urfa if you don't. Ayran to drink. Finish with Turkish tea.
About this page
Restaurant: Hayat Cafe (Hayat Cafe)
Cuisine: kebab
Location: Karaköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Source: Curated from local review platforms