The Art of Drinking Tea: A Deep-Rooted Tradition in Turkish Culture

Few things are as deeply woven into the fabric of Turkish tea culture as çay (pronounced “chai”). More than just a drink, drinking tea in Turkey is a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and daily life. Whether sipped in bustling city cafés, quiet village homes, or on a ferry crossing the Bosphorus, Turkish tea is ever-present, connecting people through conversation and tradition.

A Daily Ritual, Not Just a Drink

A glass of traditional Turkish tea rests on a white bench aboard a ferry, with the serene blue waters of the Bosphorus in the background.

Unlike in many countries where tea is reserved for specific times of the day, drinking tea in Turkey is a continuous ritual. Morning, afternoon, or evening—there’s always an occasion for a fresh glass of Turkish black tea. Served in small tulip-shaped glasses that allow its deep red color to shine, Turkish çay is both a sensory and social experience.

The tea is traditionally strong, brewed in a two-tiered teapot called a çaydanlık. The top pot holds the concentrated tea, while the lower pot contains boiling water, allowing each person to adjust the strength of their cup. This brewing method is essential to the Turkish tea tradition, ensuring every glass is rich in flavor.

Tea as a Symbol of Hospitality and Friendship

A steaming glass of tea sits on a windowsill, capturing a moment of relaxation with a blurred urban backdrop.

Offering Turkish tea is one of the most fundamental acts of hospitality in Turkey. Whether visiting a friend, shopping at the Grand Bazaar, or even discussing business, you will almost always be offered a steaming glass of çay. To refuse a cup is rare—it’s more than just a drink; it’s an invitation to connect, to pause, and to enjoy the moment.

Tea is also a key part of the Turkish tea ceremony, an informal yet cherished custom where tea is served slowly, encouraging conversation and relaxation. Unlike the formal rituals of Japanese or Chinese tea ceremonies, how to drink Turkish tea is all about warmth and togetherness.

A Tradition Rooted in History

While the history of Turkish tea dates back to the late Ottoman period, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that it became the country’s preferred drink. As coffee became more expensive and less accessible, tea plantations flourished in the Black Sea region, particularly in Rize, which is now the heart of Turkish tea production. Today, Turkey is among the world’s top tea consumers, with the average citizen drinking several cups a day.

The Social Aspect of Tea Houses

A cozy street corner with rustic seating and a painted mural expressing love for tea, inviting passersby to relax and enjoy a cup.

Beyond home and hospitality, tea houses in Turkey, known as çay ocakları (tea houses) and çay bahçesi (tea gardens), play a crucial role in social life. These establishments are where people gather to talk, read, play backgammon, or simply watch the world go by. From the elderly discussing politics to students taking a study break, Turkish tea houses are open to all, reflecting Turkey’s warm and communal spirit.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Drink

The importance of tea in Turkey goes beyond refreshment—it’s a tradition, a connection, and an art form in itself. Drinking tea in Turkey is about embracing a way of life, one that values hospitality, conversation, and the simple pleasure of slowing down, one sip at a time.