Let’s face it – Istanbul is not among top literary cities, even if Turkish one and only Nobel Prize laureate in literature lives in it. That’s why anything related to books brings some of that special excitement to us who love them.

A few days ago, while rambling around the streets of Be?ikta?-Akatlar, a place that smelled of newly printed books and coffee caught my attention. I found myself in Minoa – a very, very special place for Istanbul because it so well combines interesting books, nice drinks, tasty food, and friendly staff.

After only a few minutes, I felt at home, and hours passed with my laptop before I noticed it was time to go.

Yes, Minoa is becoming popular and it can easily get crowded, especially during the weekends. But weekdays are great if you want to have some work done, or just enjoy flipping through one of the books that are at display.

Please note that bringing books to your table is forbidden, which I welcome wholeheartedly. This is not a library in the end.

They also have a rich English selection – a very encouraging detail for those English speakers who would like to go back to reading in this technology-dominated era.

All in all, it has a very pleasant atmosphere, and stimulating too!

I even dare to say that I enjoyed it more than Türk-Alman Kitabevi, my other favourite bookstore-café, which gets overcrowded at times.

Let’s hope Minoa keeps its much-needed tranquility and ambiance.

Oh, and don’t forget to visit the downstairs section. Its book-filled brick walls will make you want to read them all at once.

I wouldn’t mind if more of similar kinds of bookstores open their doors in this city that feels hungry for some soothing peace that only well-written words can give.

Until then, I will visit this one pretty soon again.

Text by Tanja Divjak

Photos by Billur Karabenli