Editor Pick
Erenler Nargile ve Cay Bahcesi (Hookah Garden)
- May 23, 2004
- Rated 5 of 5 by
Jim Rosenberg from Wausau, Wisconsin
After a filling lunch one day, we stopped at Ereneler Nargile ve Cay Bahcesi, a tea and hookah garden a few blocks from the Grand Bazaar. For the equivalent of less than $4 each, our floor-model water pipes were loaded with apple-cured tobacco and we enjoyed tea as we enjoyed the incredibly smooth flavor of the load, which was kept going by an attendant who would drop small pieces of charcoal with tongs into the bowl. It is a very relaxing and peaceful way to pass some time that has broad appeal in this part of the world. (This is not the place to go for people who have a problem with smoking. The level of tobacco use in Istanbul seems to make Paris look reserved by comparison.)
You will find water pipe gardens in various locations around the city and it is one of those things that can enhance your experience to try, as well as giving you another story to tell. This particular spot has a good selection of water pipes to choose from if you care to make a purchase, although you will have no trouble finding these items for sale just about everywhere from the airport and the Grand Bazaar to countless shops and souvenir stands. There was a mix of Turks and tourists using the facilities. It seemed like a load was good for at least 15 minutes and probably more.
From journal Istanbul: exotic and friendly -- a bargain, too!