Fahri Konsolosluk

Fahri Konsolosluk is a weird mix of handmade copper barware, funky shirts worn by the staff, extremely elaborate and well-concocted cocktails and an easygoing, friendly neighbourhood bar vibe. Imaginative, detailed and homemade (in every aspect) cocktails. One of those places where you experiment with cocktails that have double-entendre names, with a penchant of Otto-byzantine vibes.

What to order: I truly wish Fahri Konsolosluk had a tasting menu so it wouldn’t take me all my willpower and liver stamina to go through its menu. The cocktails that would be jewels in the crown though are probably threefold. Leb-i Derya, a perfect mezcal-based cocktail mixed with a beetroot shrub among other things. It’s salty, packs a good umami and does not overwhelm with its smokiness. The Martı, a cocktail inspired by the iconic simit and ayran combo of Istanbul’s ferry rides. Whiskey-based with barley malt, sesame, ayran and an ayran-like froth. The Gül-i Bar, a refreshing gin-based cocktail with cucumber shrub and rose foam.

What to know: I do believe all cocktails here are at a level that would make a curious palate satisfied. Still, just like stars in the sky some shine more than others. And just like stars in the sky these cocktails are not the most visible in Istanbul. Fahri Konsolosluk is well-known but thanks to the founding bartender Burak’s mentality, it never becomes the too-trendy place for influencers and a horde of white collar trend killers.
No reservations, limited space. Price-wise, basically a steal for what they offer culinarily.