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Türkiye’s largest coffee festival, the Turk Telekom Prime Istanbul Coffee Festival, has opened its doors for the 11th year, bringing together coffee lovers and music enthusiasts at the outdoor grounds of Tepe Nautilus in Kadikoy.
Festival founder and Dream Sales Machine Chairman Alper Sesli explained that this year’s event covers 10,000 square meters and features more than 200 brands. He highlighted that visitors will be able to taste over 100 different types of roasted coffee beans sourced from around the world, with all tastings offered free of charge.
Sesli underlined that coffee has been part of life in these lands for nearly 500 years. While Türkiye does not traditionally produce coffee, he noted that the country has maintained a deep-rooted culture around it, particularly through Turkish coffee, a brewing method recognized as unique. According to him, global companies remain surprised by the scale of local interest in coffee despite the absence of large-scale cultivation.
Sesli also pointed out that coffee is now starting to be produced in Türkiye, a development that is expected to shape future discussions. The festival hosts speakers from organic farming and coffee-growing backgrounds, along with industry leaders, creating a space where both production and consumption are addressed. Alongside these talks, the afternoons bring live music performances, with concerts by well-known artists each evening.
One of the highlights this year is the introduction of X BARISTA, an artificial intelligence-powered coffee station developed by Thude Robotics. CEO Onder Akyazici described it as a “fourth-generation coffee experience,” built upon the standards of third-wave specialty coffee but enhanced through robotics and AI.
He explained that the system uses a locally developed sensor capable of replicating the exact movements of professional baristas, including the preparation of intricate drinks such as lattes. While emphasizing that the technology does not aim to replace humans, Akyazici said it helps create efficiency and consistency, with both domestic and international demand already emerging.
Festival participant Alireza Razzaghzadeh, co-founder of Niji Coffee Co. and a multiple award-winning barista, expressed his enthusiasm about the event. He said that the location in Kadikoy has allowed the festival to reach a wider audience, while accessibility and the design of the venue added to the positive atmosphere. He emphasized that the festival plays a vital role in promoting Türkiye’s coffee sector, which he described as both vibrant and growing.
The festival runs until Sept. 14 and combines coffee with art, music, and workshops. The opening night features a performance by Turkish pop singer Levent Yuksel, with upcoming concerts by Madrigal, Ceza, and Haluk Levent scheduled over the four days. Visitors can also attend interactive workshops and seminars, enriching their experience beyond tastings.
For the first time, the festival includes a dedicated Turk Telekom Children’s Area, offering activities for families with children. Meanwhile, the Turk Telekom Prime Lounge provides entertainment, refreshments, and prize-winning contests for festival-goers.
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