In the new location, you can find all of Tuna’s trademark designs, which mainly consist of decorative objects and jewelry, including her new line of porcelain and metal rings. Like all of her designs, this new collection incorporates historical elements to create totally unique designs.

Cartier has recently re-launched their “Juste un Clou” collection, which translates as “Just a Nail”. This classic yet modern collection features bracelets of solid gold topped with a flat head, transforming hardware into elegant jewelry.

The “Juste un Clou” collection is available in yellow, white, or pink gold, natural or encrusted with diamonds. Originally designed for Cartier in the 1970s by Aldo Cipullo, the first nail bracelet was inspired by the wild nightlife of New York in the ’70s and the iconic Studio 54. Cartier’s modern take on this chic bracelet is available in two sizes, for him and her.

Rose tea: You’ve heard about the famous apple tea, and probably bought it at the Egyptian Bazaar. You’ve drank brewed tea at most of the restaurants that you’ve been to in Istanbul. But you probably haven’t tried out rose tea, which not only looks absolutely romantic but also tastes great. Buy a bag of dried rose buds (you can get 100gr for 15 TL at Arifoğlu, and can find it at Zencefil Aktar as well), add 2-3 buds into a cup of boiling water. Let it brew for a few minutes and enjoy.

Rose Flavored Turkish Delight: Pistachio-filled Turkish Delights are to die for. No question there. But the rose-flavored ones, with their pink jelly-cious interior and dusty exterior make a delicate, elegant, and delicious little dessert. Only for 7 TL a box at Malatya Pazarı.

Rose jam: Have it for breakfast with cheese, add a spoonful in yogurt for a sweet snack, or top it on top of a piece of buttery bread for a lighter dessert. Buy a jar for 6 TL at Kafkas and savor it the way you like.

Rose water: Rose water is used for cooking as well as skin care. Rose is very beneficial for the skin as it has rejuvenating qualities. You can buy the all-natural Rosense brand rosewater for 9.90 TL at Arifoğlu and use it as your daily skin care product. (Rosense brand carries a range of other rose products for skin and body care.) Cihangir’s Vie En Rose is sort of a modern-day apothecary selling essential oils, soaps, and creams, and rose is the primary ingredient used in their products. Take your pick from their range, from organic rose water to rose cream and rose facial scrub (20 - 40TL). You can also find a variety of rose products for skin and body care, such as massage and body oil, Japanese incense, hand wash, body lotion, bath salt, and soap (15 TL - 85 TL) at Simple Life.

Gülabdan: Gülabdan is an Ottoman-era pear-shaped bottle, often made of silver or ceramics, which was used to pour or sprinkle rose water. An almost forgotten object today, during Ottoman times, gülabdan was used to offer rose water to houseguests, a revered tradition at the time. You may not necessarily use it for the same purpose now, but it certainly makes for a great decorative object or gift. You can find it at silverware stores at the Grand Bazaar, such as Süren Gümüşçü, or you can search for it at antique stores. Paşabahçe also has one in their Ottoman collection (it’s a limited edition). The prices for gülabdan are quite high, ranging around 400-600 TL.

Rose Candle: Lokum Istanbul is famous the world over, especially for its Turkish delights. (And this is no exaggeration considering its first international branch opened in London a few months ago.) Among the unique range of scents of Lokum’s candles, you’ll find what’s called Rumi’s Rose, sold for 35 TL. Light it up, inhale the rose in, and relax. While you’re shopping at Lokum Istanbul, make sure you take a look at their rose-flavored akide şekeri (traditional hard candy), sold for 48 TL.

Rose-flavored ice-cream: Move the chocolate, the vanilla, and the caramel aside, and go straight for the rose next time you’re out for a cone of ice-cream. We suggest you head to Istanbul Culinary Institute’s restaurant Enstitü, or to Bebek’s organic ice-cream shop Migone for a scoop.

Rose Parfait: Müzedechanga is an Istanbul classic, and now that the weather is warm enough, it’s the perfect spot for a rose dessert. Next time you’re there, try their Wafer Halva and Rose Parfait Sandwich with Strawberry & Raspberry Sauce – it’s a perfect mix of crunchiness, coolness, and sweetness. (Available only during summer, starting in June.)

Rose Petal Pudding Recipe: Try your hand at a dish made of roses. This Rose Petal Pudding Recipe, by Gönül Paksoy, is a beautifully-presented, tasty delight perfect for summer parties.

And that’s why you will be very happy to know that a vintage sunglasses shop called Fashion @ Eye popped up in Karaköy recently, and by the looks of it, it’s here to stay. Located in one of the stores in the Fransız İş Hanı (two shops away from Bej Kahve and Kağıthane), this pop-up shop is owned and operated by a journalist-turned-PR professional-turned image consultant-turned academician-turned, as the Turkish media calls him, the eyewear guru.

The multi-talented and very friendly Hakan San is the son of an optician couple who are also enthusiastic collectors. After working at a variety of other jobs, Hakan kind of fell into that one thing that has made him happy since he was a kid: glasses. Three years ago, he resurrected his father’s collection, and started selling them at a number of events, like the 2010 Freshtival, and also began blogging about his passion (click here to take a look at Hakan’s blog). He even put up a stand in the Feriköy Flea Market but he closed it down after realizing that the market wasn’t the place for vintage sunglasses. His mother, who wasn’t happy about his PhD son selling glasses from a stand in the market, was, most probably, pretty relieved.

The glasses at this pop-up store, known as Fashion @ Eye, are sought after by you, me, famous TV stars, and anyone who is into the cool and the vintage. Due to high demand, the collection changes all the time (every two weeks, to be exact), so if you see something you like, you better buy it on the spot. And Hakan makes buying very easy, first with his expertise in what suits your style and face, and secondly with his prices. The most expensive piece in the collection right now is 450TL.

You’ll find very 21^st-century-friendly old and original vintage sunglasses in his collection, mostly from the 70s and 80s. All the glasses have been upgraded to feature UV-protected lenses, and almost all of them have never been worn. Hakan rarely sells second-hand pieces, and if you happen to show interest in such a piece, he’ll let you know. For Hakan, glasses communicate one’s personality and view of the world in a very direct way. And he’s passionate about communicating personal style and individuality through fun pieces. So don’t be surprised when you see a plastic pair (with UV-protection lenses) for 50 TL next to Christian La Croix, Nina Ricci, Silhouette, and Porsche.

Keep an eye out for Hakan and his collection. He has great plans for the future, from opening a permanent shop in his current location to creating a limited collection with a Turkish designer.

The celeb-approved Misela bags have become an international sensation within a few years of the brand’s launch, and have been worn by the likes of Rosario Dawson, Emmy Rossum, Ashley Greene, and Nicole Scherzinger. Since its founding in 2008, Misela was only being sold online and in various boutiques and department stores around the world. Now, the first Misela boutique opened up in the historic Pera district for all the ladies who want to upgrade their look with a sophisticated accessory.

Serra Türker, the Istanbul-born painter-turned-designer who is the founder and creative director of Misela, was an art student at the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design where she studied textile design. Taking her background in painting, blending it with her impeccable sense of style and her grasp of design, color, and texture, Türker has been creating some very chic statement handbags.

Her small but very classy store in Pera now showcases the latest Summer 2012 collection of clutches, pochettes, and shoulder bags that feature vibrant colors (different hues of red, pink, yellow, and blue), leather, sea snake, suede, and Swarovski crystals.

So if you want to get glam or instantly brighten up your look for the summer, head to the Misela boutique in Pera.

Misela’s handbags are also sold at various locations around Istanbul, including Harvey Nichols, Atelier 55, Midnight Express in Bebek, and Midnight Express in Nişantaşı. To see the full collection and learn about international locations, check out Misela’s website here. Misela brand pillows can only be found at the Misela showroom (Pera Residence, Asmalı Mescit Sokak, No:28 Kat:1 Daire:5) and Atelier 55.

Misela, Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 107/E, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 243 53 00

Located in the Bosphorous neighborhood of Ortaköy and housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era mansion, Hazal Kilim & Halı is an established store known for the quality of its goods. Founded and run by the elegant Ms. Engin Demirkol for over 25 years, the shop specializes in carpets and kilims from Anatolia.

Over the years, Hazal Kilim & Halı has built a strong reputation with both locals and visitors, and they have a long list of loyal clientele. Ms. Demirkol has spent the last two decades carefully choosing each item to build up her distinctive collection, travelling through the countryside to hunt for the best carpets and kilims that Anatolia has to offer. Her daughter Hazal whom the shop is named after has also joined the family business.

After having established a strong presence in the carpet industry, Ms. Demirkol has now started to branch out into other products, using her incredibly rich stock of carpets and textiles to create her own custom-made pieces. As well as one-of-a-kind cushions made from antique fabrics that are interwoven with new materials, she also creates original carpets, often working with her daughter.

Unlike traditional patchwork carpets which consist of a number of smaller pieces, usually taken from various old carpets, the pieces at Hazal Hali tend to use larger pieces and work with the character of the original carpets. While some pieces blend several different carpets and tapestries to striking effect, other will take the existing beauty of an antique carpet and compliment it with something as simple as a bit of embroidery and a lining.

Over the years it has become harder and harder to find good quality antique carpets as the sources have dried up. And at the same time, Ms. Demirkol has noticed a current trend in which consumers are turning away from more traditional carpets and motifs and are instead interested in more modern and innovative creations, with such carpets becoming increasingly in demand. No doubt, a part of the reason that such carpets are so popular is the fact that they fit in very well with the décor of modern homes.

Indeed, many of Ms. Demirkol’s carpets are more like pieces of modern art, reminiscent of Rothko paintings with their bold color blocks. These unique works of art would certainly fit into even the most modern and minimalistic interiors. After working in the sector for many years, Ms. Demirkol not only has an incredible wealth of knowledge on Turkish carpets and textiles, but also a very keen eye for fabrics that complement each other and work well together. The pieces all have the rich and deep colors of natural root dyes.

The majority of Ms. Demirkol’s pieces originate from Anatolia, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, and she is more than happy to explain the unique history behind each item. As for Hazal Hali’s range of cushions, these are nothing like the mass-produced version you find in most shops. Each one is an original, and often, a sample is designed for clients, and then Ms. Demirkol creates bespoke pieces based on their tastes and requests.

Many new customers come to the store through word of mouth, and are quickly impressed byMs. Demirkol’s love of carpets and textiles, and often share her passion. Her philosophy for shopping is that when buying a carpet or cushion, you should always buy a piece that you absolutely love. With so many unique designs to choose from, the hardest part could well be not finding a piece you love, but deciding which one to take home.Mecidiyeköy Köprüsü Sokak No.9 Ortaköy; P: (0212) 261 72 33

Impressions of Ottoman Culture in Europe: 1453-1699 by Nurhan Atasoy and Lale Uluç, published by The Turkish Cultural Foundation (TCF) and ARMAGGAN Publications explores European impressions of the Ottoman Empire. Written in English and also translated into Turkish, this project is the product of six years of research by the authors spanning 14 different countries.

The book studies the cultural influences Ottoman cultural had on Europe in the early modern age, a time when the expansion of the Ottoman Empire created shared borders and intense political, diplomatic and trade ties with Europe. Atasoy and Uluc not only provide a thorough intellectual narrative on the cultural and artistic exchanges between the Ottomans and various European cultures, but have also created a visually stunning book with 400 images. The book has special sections devoted to Textiles, Tiles and Ceramics, Arms and Armor, Turkish Image, and more.This beautiful and impressive book is available for purchase at the Armaggan book store and can also be ordered online at www.turkishcultureshop.org.

So next time you’re in need of an impressive bouquet to set things right, take a look at our list of best florists in Istanbul.

Flower House: Flower House takes a wild approach to flower arranging by sprucing up bouquets and arrangements with colorful, fresh-from-the-garden flowers. From gorgeously simple to the naturally quirky, you’ll find just what you’re looking for at Flower House.Yıldız Mahallesi Ihlamur Caddesi No.3/A, Beşiktaş; P: (0212) 259 29 17

Lisan-ı Ezhar: Lisan-ı Ezhar translates into "language of the flower," a title befitting of this special flower shop. Owned by a sculptor, who uses specially imported flowers from Holland, the store boasts unique creations that range from bouquets to arrangements and everything in between. Köybaşı Caddesi No.88/2A, Yeniköy; P: (0212) 299 04 03

Ege Soley: After trainingas a florist in the romantic city of Paris, Ege Soley returned to Istanbul in 2011 and opened up Ege Soley Event & Corporate Flowering in Akaretler. A strong believer in simplicity with a passion to bring beauty to the world, Soley creates colorful and elegant bouquets that make a strong statement with their humility. Süleyman Seba Caddesi No. 83/A, Akaretler; P: (0212) 227 09 22

Gönül Paksoy is considered one of the doyennes of the Turkish fashion industry, known for her unique aesthetic and designs. However, in many ways, Paksoy is not your typical fashion designer. Apart from her clothing and jewelry designs, she has also written a number of cookbooks. What also sets Paksoy apart is her background: she holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering and was a professor at Adana’s Çukurova University for many years prior to moving to Istanbul and starting her fashion business.

When I spoke to Paksoy, I asked how she made the career leap from an academic living in Adana to an Istanbul-based fashion designer. Paksoy explains that she has been painting since she was a child and comes from an artistic family — both her brothers are artists. When deciding what to study, she chose chemistry but continued to have a strong interest in the arts. During her graduate studies, she took some art classes on the side, drawing in her free time.

When she made her move to Istanbul, she initially had the idea of working with carpets and kilims, but then quickly moved into clothing design. She decided to apply her knowledge of chemical compounds and natural dyes to the production of clothing fabrics. All of her designs utilize 100\\\% natural dyes, and mostly antique fabrics. All of her pieces are original, hand-dyed, and hand-sown, using 100\\\% silk even for the thread and lining.

When I asked Paksoy why her designs have enjoyed so much success over the years, she said she thinks it is because her look is individual and unique, with all of her pieces one-of-a-kind. In creating her own style and trademark look, Paksoy believes, it is almost as if she has created her own culture. Indeed, Paksoy’s trademark look has remained much the same since the beginning of her career. It features the signature silhouette that she started with, which she has added to over the years. Her pieces are like a mosaic, she says; you can wear a piece from the latest collection along with something that she designed 22 years ago.

Paksoy is an avid collector of archeological objects and often draws her inspiration from this collection, while the minimalism of mystics’ clothes also influences her designs. Paksoy says that her math skills are tremendously helpful in her profession, because she usually works with antique fabrics and has to cut the fabrics very carefully, as every centimeter counts.

When I asked Paksoy about the profile of the women who wear her clothes, she explained that her customers are discerning women who care about value, quality, and originality of design, and that her clothes suit women of all ages. When it comes to her designs, Paksoy says, customers are not just buying clothes, but also buying pieces of art. Indeed, many of her pieces could best be described as wearable art, with the presentation of the store also contributing to this impression. Her boutique has an art gallery-like setting, with minimalist white walls and fewer items on display than most boutiques. The clothing, jewelry, and accessories are interspersed with antique carvings.

Remarkably, the Gönül Paksoy brand has achieved success without ever having had a marketing or advertising campaign. In fact, Paksoy tells me that she never sells her clothes through a third party and does not sell them abroad. However, her reputation has still grown internationally through her many exhibits abroad as well as her cookbooks. Her exhibits and aesthetic have been particularly popular in Japan. When asked why she thinks that is, she says she believes that being Asian is what she has in common with the Japanese, and that this influences her outlook and approach to design.

Cookbooks are something that Paksoy started working on later in her career. She was never actually taught to cook by anyone, but spent many years of her childhood watching her grandmother in the kitchen. She first started baking cookies and cakes, then began inviting friends over for dinner parties. These evolved into her legendary New Year’s parties, which she holds in her store. These grew each year, eventually reaching more than 100 guests, at which point it was suggested that she write a cookbook.

When she first made the decision to write a book, she approached her kitchen from a very academic point of view in order to articulate her cooking philosophy. Looking at her main ingredients, she saw that she used mostly vegetables and fruits and very little red meat, using fish and some poultry for protein. Unlike with most Turkish dishes, she does not use tomato-based sauces or garlic, and does not fry, preferring to steam dishes. For desserts, she does not use much dough, and instead creates milk- and fruit-based desserts. After examining all of her recipes, she decided to write her first cookbook, and has published many since then.

Paksoy has also published two unusual cookbooks, one on edible beads and the other on edible flowers. She also published a book on rag dolls she created that were sold at MoMA. The dolls evolved into a social responsibility project, as she used the proceeds to build a school library in the town of Ceyhan, where she was born. Paksoy believes that social responsibility and hard work are very important, and wants to give this message to young people through her books and her projects. Clearly, Paksoy is a designer with a different outlook on life than most, which comes across in her designs and her clothes.Atiye Sokak No. 6/A, Teşvikiye; P: (0212) 261 90 81

Thursday night marked the arrival of the Lomography store in Istanbul with a party to commemorate the store's opening on Serdar-ı Ekrem Caddesi in Galata. Around 9pm enthusiastic crowds expanded and filled the cobblestone streets in front of the store, some arriving on motorcycles while others took a gander inside at the exhibit of photos and cameras hanging on the walls.

The story of Lomo began in Vienna, Austria in the early 1990s, when two students found a Lomo Kompakt Automat, a compact camera introduced in 1984, and found vibrant colors, deep saturation, and vignettes that framed their shots. Since then, the Lomo camera has made its way to worldwide distribution, igniting exhibitions, world congresses, parties, installations, collaborations, and events. In the meantime new products and accessories were developed as a community formed around the little camera dedicated to experimental and creative visual expression.

Lomo newcomers and experts will find what they need in the Istanbul store from the classic and simple fisheye lens cameras to the more advanced Lomo LC-A+ models. The store also boasts a lively online community on the Lomography website where events and competitions are held, and most of all where photos are shared and celebrated.

Lomography Gallery Store Istanbul; Şahkulu Mah. Serdar-ı Ekrem Cad.No: 5/B Galata/ İstanbul

Focusing on the modern re-design of classic Anatolian cultural staples and motifs from different civilizations, Anatoli offers a unique array of aesthetically opulent decorative objects. The modern interpretion takes the form of three collections entitled Evladiyye, Klasikler, and Devr-i Alem, which all carry their own story and design aesthetic.

Anatoli offers a wide variety of goods that range from Turkish tea sets, classic sugar bowls, glass candle holders, wine glass sets, Turkish coffee sets, backgammon boards and much more. İstinye Bayırı Cad. No: 73 Sarıyer; P: (0212) 345 55 55

Nakkas offers the biggest selection of traditional silk Hereke carpets that you will not find in any store, in traditional patterns as well as original yet classic designs. For collectors, they offer a wide range of antique carpets from Anatolia, Persia, and Central Asia. For buyers looking to decorate a more modern interior, Nakkas offers a very unique selection of contemporary designs.

Working with interior designers to catch the latest trends in color and style, they use those trends to design a select range of one-of-a kind carpets. Apart from fashionable patchwork carpets, they also offer carpets in ikat, suzani, and geometric patterns. Be sure not to miss the amazing sixth-century Byzantine cistern on which the store is built, a monument that has been carefully restored to serve as an exhibition space for Turkish artists.

So, next time you crave this sensory-provoking, instantly-addictive sweet treat, take a look at our list of best chocolates in Istanbul.

Baylan: Founded by the Albanian immigrant Filip Lenas in 1923, Baylan is one of the oldest and most established patisseries in Istanbul. Its first branch opened in Beyoğlu in 1923 under the name Loryan, which was later changed to Baylan in 1934. In 1961, a new branch in Kadıköy was opened—and this branch is still in operation to this day. In 2010, a very modern branch opened up in Bebek and renovations began taking place in the Kadıköy store to keep the glory of the old days. Many people know of Baylan with its famous Kup Griye dessert (made with ice-cream, caramel sauce, and brittle). Baylan’s chocolate is just as legendary, especially Moncheri (chocolate with raspberry and liqueur). - Baylan chocolates come in bitter, milk, and white, and are filled with innovative flavors, including marzipan, bergamot, mastic, Baileys and cinnamon, champagne, and Amaretto.

Chocoist: Chocoist is small shop in Küçükbebek that was opened by Soley Ari. Soley is a passionate dreamer, and her wildest dreams revolve around chocolate. That’s why she opened Chocoist in 2010 as an experimental platform for creating high-quality, home-made chocolate. In this little Alpine-home-like shop, you’ll find some very tasty and unique chocolates, such as Rondo A La Turco (white chocolate with tahini, pine nuts, cranberry, almond, hazelnuts, and cinnamon), Paradiso Perduto (milk chocolate with dried sweet cherries or apricot, orange peel, lavender, allspice), Honey Bombs (brittle made with almond, hazelnut, walnut, and orange peel, covered in dark chocolate), Rondo Al Verda (white chocolate with cranberry, pistachio, biscuit, and vanilla), Pink Paradise (white chocolate with pink pepper, gojiberry, vanilla, rose petals, and liqueur), and a variety of truffles (with Bacardi, Amaretto, Whiskey, Champagne, and Cointreau). Don’t forget to buy a slice of brownie when you’re there!

Chocolate & Wine Shop at The Marmara Taksim:The Marmara Taksimhas gone through quite a change in the past year, and we’ve been more than impressed with their newly-updatedTuti Restaurant. Another welcomed addition is their Chocolate & Wine Shop (located right by the hotel’s entrance) where a distinct range of high-quality chocolate is sold. Of the chocolate-covered dragées, chocolate bars, and truffles, the most exotic of all may be the passion fruit truffle. You’ll find more adventurous flavors here, like the sesame chocolate or the mille-feuille chocolate. These make an ideal gift, especially because of their unique packaging. They come in a few different sizes, and the one that we like the most is the tall, pink box for ladies that has a purse-like handle.

Divan: Divan is one of the most established patisseries in Istanbul, known for its top-quality chocolates. Divan’s product range includes chocolates with pistachios, almonds, coffee, coconut, truffles (bitter, milk, and white chocolate), and, chocolate-covered dragées. Divan also has a special collection called Chocolat d’Origine, which consists of chocolates that are prepared from cocoa beans from Ghana, Madagascar, Equator, and Dominican Republic. In this series, you’ll find Jivara with 40\\\\\% cocoa, Equator with 66\\\\\% cacao, Dominican Republic with 64\\\\\% cacao, Ghana with 68\\\\\% cacao, and Madagascar with 64\\\\\% cacao. A winter favorite from Divan is the marron deguise (which means “chestnuts in disguise”). Made from candied chestnuts that are pureed and covered with chocolate, this sweet treat is extraordinarily luscious. Another specialty of Divan is the Arduaz (brittle covered with blue chocolate). It tastes great but also looks good on the coffee table!

Godiva:Godivais a world-famous Belgian chocolate brand, now owned by a Turkish company, is synonymous with fine, gourmet, elegant chocolate. From truffles to chocolate bars, the dark, milk, white chocolate varieties of Godiva are simply mouthwatering. And the strawberry dipped in chocolate is just another dream-infused state. So if you want to indulge yourself or pamper someone, get a box of fine Godiva chocolate.

Kahve Dünyası: Open since 2004, Kahve Dünyası is a coffee shop that also sells a range of tasty chocolates with quintessentially classic flavors. When it first opened, Kahve Dünyası made a splash among Istanbul’s chocoholics with the chocolate spoon served with their coffees (you can actually buy these in bitter or milk chocolate to enjoy at home as well). Since then, Kahve Dünyası has been a favorite shop for chocolate-covered pistachio-filled Turkish delights and chocolate-covered dragées (available in milk, bitter, or white chocolate filled with orange, coffee, pistachio, and hazelnut). Kahve Dünyası has many more chocolate varieties, including milk chocolate with almonds, bitter chocolate with raspberry, and a range of truffles. Keep in mind that they also have strawberry dipped in milk chocolate made fresh daily!

Mabel:Mabelis a chocolate boutique that has been producing a wide array of fine chocolates and candies since 1947. They have bitter, white, and milk chocolate that come in a variety of shapes, sizes, designs, and flavors. Most famous is their umbrella-shaped chocolate, which even adults have been known to buy and savor in a nostalgic spirit. This cone of milk chocolate has a small plastic hook at the end that resembles a rolled-up umbrella. The combination of old world charm and tradition coupled with a large range of genuinely good chocolate makes Mabel something like a Turkish cross between Hershey’s and Lindt.

Swiss Gourmet: Sold right by the entrance of Swissôtel The Bosphorus,Swiss Gourmet’s chocolate is luxurious, has a pronounced character, and is filled with intense flavors. They have nearly 30 different kinds, from the simple bitter and milk to the passion fruit and tequila flavored. Be warned before you buy an elegant box of these delicate chocolates because they are instantly addictive.

Vakko Chocolate: Inspired by the world’s best Swiss chocolate, Vakko chocolates (sold at Vakko chocolate boutiques) are the combination of select cocoa beans with dense flavors that are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. In their diverse range of products, you’ll find classic bitter and milk varieties as well as chocolate-covered Turkish delights, chocolate-covered dragées, and wafers. The signature of the line is a gift box shaped like a fez, so you know these will make a fantastic gift.

Inspired by the opulence of the Ottoman Empire, but with a contemporary twist, each piece evokes a rich history and uses techniques developed in the Ottoman court. Eschewing modern cut diamonds, the Heritage collection exclusively features rose-cut diamonds, with a flat bottom and a domed faceted top, set in silver with detailed engraving and gold highlights. A favorite with Hollywood celebrities who want to make a big statement on the red carpet, Gilan’s decadent designs are truly heirloom pieces.

Click here to see a list of Gilan branches.

If you walk on Galip Dede Caddesi going down from İstiklal Caddesi (right by Tünel), you’ll see Serdar-ı Ekrem Caddesi on your left in a few minutes. Past Füreyya Balıkçısı right on the corner (a great option for lunch if you’re after tasty, fresh fish), you’ll see Atölye dö Bora, a second-hand store and a mini hair salon located underground, right below a butcher.This dimly-lit, out-of-a-movie-scene kind of vintage shop features a very well-chosen men’s section and a varied women’s section full of dresses, skirts, shoes, bags. You may come out of this store with some great vintage finds and even get a very funky (and short) haircut.

If you really enjoy vintage stuff, make sure you stop by Stok 60/70, a similiarly-hidden store a bit further down on this street. The store is full of mid-20th-century furniture and housewares from Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir that have been salvaged and renewed. You may end up finding that polka-dot armchair that you’ve been looking for since forever.

Vintage shopping aside, your next stop on Serdar-ı Ekrem is Lunapark. This is the kind of store that you can’t help but buy something before leaving it. It’s quite a unique store, specializing in items that are solely Turkish – by nostalgic Turkish brands or contemporary Turkish designers. Here, you’ll find a range of traditional and humorous products, from cosmetics, accessories, bags, and food to home décor, stationary, and books.

A few steps further down you’ll see Simay Bülbül. Simay Bülbül is a famous Turkish designer known for her extraordinary leather outfits. If you’re interested in seeing what Turkish designers are up to these days, make sure to check out jewelry designer Aida Pekin’s store (located all the way at the end of the street) and world-renowned designer Arzu Kaprol. There is also Building, selling a range of items (dresses, jewelry, accessories, shoes, bags) by Turkish designers, and Lilipud, which provides the outfits for the popular TV servies Muhteşem Yüzyıl, carries a very simply elegant range of clothing.

When you want to take a break from shopping/window-shopping, head to the nostalgic photography studio Giyçek. Dress up like an Ottoman Sultan or a külhanbeyi (the Ottoman version of a gang leader), and have fun getting your photo taken. Make sure you pay attention to the building that the studio is housed in. The building is called Doğan Apartmanı and its one of the historic buildings in the area that was built in 1895.

After your photo shoot, stop by Mavra, a cozy little cafe that has indulge-worthy appetizers, salads, pastas, and meat-heavy mains. It’s quite a calm café, often filled with its frequenters just typing away on their laptops or reading the day’s paper as if they are in their own living rooms.

Once you get going again, stop by Sofa Art & Antiques. This quirky little store has something for every taste and budget. It’s kind of a mythical treasure box, with each corner hiding an unexpected find, both old and new. This may be a sculpture, a mirror, or maybe a piece of jewelry.

Last but not least, go into Atelier 55, a very elegant boutique selling clothing, jewelry, and home décor items by Turkish as well as international designers, uch as Bora Aksu, Batya Kebudi, Misela, R Y Augousti, Umit Benan, and Charlotte Olympia.

At the end of this fun but possibly tiring day, reward yourself with a glass of champagne and a very very good mousse au chocolat at the charming Le Fumoir (the bar/restaurant/lobby of Georges Hotel).

Atölye dö Bora,Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak No.8/A, Galata; P: (0212) 243 08 12

Lunapark, Serdar-ı Ekrem Caddesi No. 17/B, Galata; P: (0212) 245 94 14

Simay Bülbül, Şahkulu Bostan Aokak No. 22, Galata; P: (0212) 292 45 86

Arzu Kaprol, Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak Kamondo Apartmanı No.22, Galata; P: (0212) 252 75 71

Le Fumoir, Serdar-I Ekrem Sokak No.24, Galata; P: (0212) 244 24 23

Lilipud, Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak No.25/A, Galata; P: (0212) 252 71 73

Giyçek, Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak Doğan Apartmanı No.30/C, Galata; P: (0212) 251 81 81

Building, Serdar-ı Ekrem Caddesi No. 27/A, Galata; P: (0212) 243 07 17

Mavra, Serdar-ı Ekrem Caddesi No. 31/A, Galata; P: (0212) 252 74 88

Aida Pekin, Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak No. 44A, Galata; P: (0212) 243 12 11

Sofa Art & Antiques, Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak No.47, Galata; P: (0212) 292 39 77

Atelier 55, Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak Seraskerci Çıkmazı No.55, Galata; P: (0212) 245 32 55

Stok 60/70, Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak Doğan Apartmanı, Galata; P: (0212) 252 68 70

The March/April issue of The Guide Istanbul is out now! Read all about the coolest new happenings in the city, in arts, culture, dining, shopping and more. For this issue, the Guide Istanbul scoured the Galata neighborhood to find the best new boutique hotels. Also, see the imperial harem in a whole new light, with the article Private Practice. You can learn more about Turkey’s burgeoning wine sector including recommendations on the Top 7 Turkish wines in our interview with sommelier Burçak Desombre. And, read all about Istanbul’s latest Japanese restaurant Maromi, our Editor’s Choice for this month. You’ll find all this and much more, so pick up your copy today.

To subscribe to the magazine, contact us here.

Dilek Hanif is an internationally renowned Turkish designer who was on the runway of Paris Haute Couture Week for the 17th time in January, and whose gown was worn by Jane Fonda during the Oscars last month. 



Hanif is known for applying authentic Ottoman elements and items like cepken (a traditional kaftan-like, short vest), kaftans, and traditional Turkish handcrafted designs to modern gowns. Her 2012 Haute Couture Summer Collection was inspired by the refined and daring style of the 90s women, and mainly features pastel colors like off-white, sea green, and beige. The handcrafted designs add a touch of color with vivid colors like silver, coral, green, and blue. Maçka Caddesi No. 59/2, Teşvikiye; P: (0212) 219 37 23

Delicco imports its fresh salmon from Norway, and makes smoked salmon in the following varieties: Traditional Smoked Salmon, Emperor Cut Loin, Gravlax, and Superior Extra Smoked. 1-kilo bags as well as 100- and 250-gram packages of nearly all the above are available for in-store purchase or delivery. Delicco also makes smoked halibut, eel, swordfish, mackerel, horse mackerel/bonito, and trout upon request.

Orders can be placed by phone at (0542) 475 5889, or by sending an email to the Shipmans at the following address: dilistan.shipman@delicco.com

Delicco, Ünalan Mahallesi Aşık Şenlik Sokak (Eski adı ile Selvi Sokak) 33B, Üsküdar; P: (0216) 470 95 05

İpek Hanım Çiftliği(İpek Hanım’s Farm) is located a little outside the village of Ocaklı in Nazilli (Aydın Province in the Aegean). İpek Hanım is a committed vegetarian whose farm products, grown without any kind of hormones, pesticides, or chemical fertilizer, include a wide selection of vegetables, homemade jams, olive oils, cheeses, eggs, and more. An updated list of the Farm’s products (the availability of which changes regularly) is emailed to İpek Hanım’s customers, who then reply with their order. Orders are shipped five days a week, but can be placed at any time. Payment is upon delivery only, with no payment being accepted if orders arrive in a spoiled condition. All you need to do to enjoy İpek Hanım’s delicious produce is to send an email to ipekhanim@ipekhanim.com and ask to be added to the mailing list. We recommend you try the peasant bread, carrot, tarhana soup, sweet goat cheese, and anything that takes your fancy.

Ekolojik İmece (Ecological Collective) is known as the force behind the Feriköy Pazarı, Turkey’s first ecological weekly market, and currently operates three additional markets in Bakırköy (on Saturdays), Kartal (on Sundays), and Levent’s Kanyon Shopping Mall (on Fridays), as well as in Ankara and Antalya. Its popular Ekolojik Gıda Kutusu (Ecological Food Basket) offers home delivery of an array of different products including herbs and spices, every imaginable variety of seasonal fruit and vegetable, half a dozen types of honey, and cheeses made from organic goat’s milk. Organic wines, and organic personal care and beauty products, are also available. An updated product list is sent every Wednesday to web subscribers (to subscribe to the mailing list, simply send an email to siparis@ekolojikimece.com). Products shipped to your home (which generally arrive within 1-2 days) are payable on delivery, by cash or credit card, and there is no shipping charge for orders over 80 TL.

Mandalin Bahçesi, as its name implies (mandalina being the Turkish word for tangerine) specializes in citrus fruits, in addition to jujubes, apricots, plums, and avocados. The company, run by business partners Hikmet Faralyalı and Emel Rona, is located in the village of Gümüldür in İzmir Province on the Aegean Coast, and has a selection of seasonal fruit for mail-order shipping. Any fruit ordered from Mandalin Bahçesi is not picked until the order has been received. Orders placed on their website generally arrive within 1-2 days, with a minimum order of 4 kg. The company also produces fresh honey from beehives located on its farm.

Ayerya Rüzgarlı Vadi Organik Tarım Çiftliği (Ayerya Rüzgarlı Vadi Organic Agricultural Farm), located in Urla (İzmir Province on the Aegean Coast), specializes in olive products, with a good selection of organic olives (green, pink, and black) and early harvest/cold-pressed olive oils. Ayerya also sells fresh goat cheese and eggs, in addition to a wide range of seasonal fruits and vegetables, nuts, honey, flowers, and natural soaps. The Farm also sells several different kinds of poultry including chicken, turkey, peacock, and pheasant. Email subscribers receive regular mailings with a list of available products (send an email to p.omuroglu@gmail.com to be added to the mailing list). To place an order, just respond with a message specifying the products you wish to have shipped.

Cupcakes: If you’re dating a chocoholic, why not show your love with a box of chocolate cupcakes? Istanbul Cupcake Factory, Istanbul Cupcakery, Merve’s Cupcakes, and Rococo have some drool-worthy versions of this treat.

Flowers: Flowers can be the present itself, or the accompaniments to a present – depending on how much you’re planning to spoil your lover this year! Either way, we suggest you ask Ege Soley, Flower House, or Marginal Flowers to create a love-filled arrangement for your significant other.

Ege Soley, Süleyman Seba Caddesi No. 83/A , Akaretler; P: (0212) 227 09 22 

Flower House,Yıldız Mahallesi Ihlamur Caddesi No.3/A, Beşiktaş; P: (0212) 259 29 17 

Marginal Flowers, Poyracık Sokak No.7, Nişantaşı; P: (0212) 233 40 00  

Antiques: Romance carries with it a hint of nostalgia, a hint of beautiful memories, of times gone by. What better way to celebrate that romance than by purchasing an antique. You’ll find a wide range of pieces at Sofa in Galata and Sofa in Nuruosmaniye, from toys and jewelry to paintings and tableware.

Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak No.47 Galata, Galata; P: (0212) 292 39 77   

Nuruosmaniye Caddesi No. 53/A, Cağaloğlu; P: (0212) 520 28 50-51 

A cooking course: Nowadays, being able to talk to each other face to face for an hour practically counts as romance. We’re that busy! If such is the case with you and your sweetheart, consider taking a cooking course together. You’ll be stuck in a room for hours with your hands dirty, so you can’t rely on the cop-out of electronic communication. Whether you love the experience or hate it, you’ll bond through this shared memory. Check out our Agenda for Istanbul Culinary Institute and Mutfak Sanatları Akademisi courses, pick one, and sign up!

Istanbul Culinary Institute, Meşrutiyet Caddesi No. 59, Tepebaşı; P: (0212) 251 22 14 

Mutfak Sanatları Akademisi, Meydan Sokak Beybi Giz Plaza B Blok No. 123-126, Maslak; P: (0212) 290 35 50 

Limo rental: Sometimes love means letting your lover go a little wild. So, help her let it all hang out by renting a limo from Inter Limousine for her and her friends’ next girls’ night out. Add in a few bottles of bubbly, and let her have the night of her life. Trust us, she’ll thank you for it. Very very much. Darülbedayi Caddesi Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall Car Park level, Harbiye; P: (0212) 232 66 05  

Jewelry: Brooches, earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces. Sapphire, pearl, diamond, quartz. So many beautiful options to choose from! We hope you’ve done your homework and found out what you lady likes by now. For the best jewelry in Istanbul, head to Gilan, Armaggan, Ela Cindoruk, or Alef.  

Gilan,Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Nispetiye Caddesi No.114, Etiler; P: (0212) 282 05 76 . For more locations, click here. 

Armaggan, Nuruosmaniye Caddesi No.65, Nuruosmaniye; P: (0212) 522 44 33 

Hacı Emin Efendi Sokak No. 4A, Teşvikiye; P: (0212) 241 35 58

Something with hearts on it: You may not be too big a fan of Valentine’s Day, but we’re all huge fans of love. So forget about the jewelry, the limo, and the antiques, and just go straight to the source: the heart. At Kağıthane, you’ll find a range of heart-shaped stuff that will bring a smile to your face and your lover’s. Kemankeş Caddesi Fransız İş Geçidi No.11, Karaköy; P: (0212) 251 71 95. Fore more locations, click here.  

All you have to do is pick the style and color combination – a task that could be a lot harder than it sounds! Of course, if you would like to leave the designing to the experts, you can shop from one of their many designs. This year’s collection includes the use of exotic materials such as ostrich leather and stingray, as well as more playful pieces with bright colors.

Click here to view the list of Louis Vuitton stores in Istanbul.

Istanbul-based designer Aida Pekin’s has created two special Puzzle Rings for the Destination: Istanbul project at the MoMA (Modern Museum of Art New York) shop. The Puzzle Rings are made of plexiglass and come in two pieces which fit together to form a unique design. One features items from a Turkish bath and the other the implements for making a cup of Turkish coffee, the theme being everyday motifs in Turkish life.

MoMA’s Destination Design series introduces designers and design themes from around the world with designs made exclusively for their gift shop. These playful and lighthearted rings make a great gift and are also available at the Aida Pekin shop in Galata.

Aida Pekin;Serdar-ı Ekrem Caddesi No. 44A Galata; P:(0212) 243 12 11

Changa Restaurant; Sıraselviler Caddesi No. 47/1, Taksim; P: (0212) 251 70 64

Nish Bazaar; Garanti Mahallesi Yanarsu Sk. No:18/2B, Etiler; P: (0212) 265 31 84

This medium-sized shop is overflowing with colorful objects, and it may take a while to adjust to the overwhelming array of kaftans, textiles, and decorative pieces.

If you’re a history buff, you may spend a considerable amount of time looking through the wide range of Ottoman-era textiles, clothing, hand-woven rugs, and accessories, which date back to the 17^th, 18^th, and 19^th centuries. Collectors will love the wide range of silk kaftans as well as bundles, belts, pouches, jackets, and bedspreads.

If you’re in the market for kaftans, make sure you ask to see the suzani kaftans. If you’re not a history buff, you may not know that suzani is a type of colorful Central Asian decorative textile that often features flowers, fruits, and leaves as design motifs. In addition to kaftans, this beautiful textile is also used for rugs, pillow cases, and bedspreads, available in cotton as well as silk.

One of the highlights of the store is their range of ikat products: you’ll find it as plates, kaftans, and fabric. Pay attention to the armchairs in the shop, which feature ikat as upholstery - a great way to add an ethnic touch to your living room.

If you want to adorn the walls of your home with such delicate artwork, take a look at their small-sized textiles (featuring silk kaftans and suzani), which can be framed and exhibited as beautiful pieces of art.

The decorative objects in the shop come in the shapes of fez, Mevlana, kaftan, and pomegranate (available in ceramic and copper).

Muhlis Günbattı; Perdahçılar Caddesi No. 48, Grand Bazaar; P: (0212) 511 65 62

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Now, Nar Gourmet is opening a store in the İstinyePark shopping mall. Here, customers will find their favorite Nar Gourmet products, among which are several special varieties of olive oil (including Early Harvest olive oil and naturally pressed olive oil) as well as olive oils flavored with various herbs and spices including pepper, rosemary, basil, bay leaf, oregano, and mandarin orange. Nar Gourmet’s olive oils come not just from the Aegean and Mediterranean regions of Turkey (Balıkesir, Manisa, Aydın, Antalya, Mersin, and Hatay) but also from Tekirdağ and Mardin. In addition to olive oil products, customers will be able to purchase a wide range of organic vinegars, ekşiler (sour condiments), several varieties of molasses, organic spices, organic teas, soaps, hazelnut and pistachio oils, dried fruit, honey, traditional Turkish Delight, hard candies, jams and marmelades.

The store – which is expected to open its doors at the beginning of February – will also carry a selection of textiles, glass- and porcelain-ware, and books.IstinyePark Shopping Mall,Istinye Bayırı Caddesi No.73, Istinye; P:(0212) 345 54 45

In this volume you can enter into the world of the Bazaar, meeting the owners of well-known shops like Koç Leather and Fur, L’orient Handicrafts, Dhoku, and many more. The Grand Bazaar Istanbul covers the Bazaar’s restaurants and cafes (Fes Cafe, Şark Kahvesi, Havuzlu Restaurant) and has profiles of Bazaar notables like gramophone dealer Mehmet Usta. The book also features a section on the historic hans (inns) on the outskirts of the Bazaar, and covers a number of establishments that are not strictly speaking inside the Grand Bazaar, such as Elif Kitabevi, an antiquarian bookstore in the Beyazıt Sahaflar Çarşısı (secondhand booksellers’ market). Reading The Grand Bazaar Istanbul, you can also learn about lesser-known sides of Bazaar life, such as the Uzbek and Turkmen communities who ply their traditional trades in the Bazaar.

Sales of The Grand Bazaar Istanbul – available exclusively from Assouline boutiques worldwide – have been so successful over the past month in Turkey that the book is currently out of stock; however, it will soon be available for purchase again from Assouline’s store in Bebek. Assouline;Cevdet Paşa Caddesi No.25/A Bebek; P:(0212) 287 55 34

Sofa Art & Antiques is much like a Fukuoka garden: natural, free of disturbances, constantly growing and changing. With a delightful and enchanting owner like Dilek Hanım, it's no wonder that Sofa Art & Antiques in Galata is exciting, inviting, and full of surprises.

An antique hunter, art lover, overbearing mother, and painter, Dilek Hanım has worked her magic in this gem of a store: the interior of this tiny space (which literally cannot take more than five people at one time) resembles a mythical treasure box, each corner bursting with an unexpected find, giving the customers (who feel more like guests) the youthful exuberance of a real-life treasure hunt.

This relatively new store may not be as prolific as other antique stores (like its parent store in Nuruosmaniye) but the wedding of the old and the new, brought together by a passion for aesthetic, color, and beauty makes Sofa in Galata one of the most charming stores that you can walk in in Istanbul.

The store has quite a pedigree: owned by Dilek Hanım’s husband Kaşif Bey, Sofa Art & Antiques first opened in Nuruosmaniye in 1976, and it has been bringing a remarkable array of objects (including prints, ceramics, rugs, silver, maps) of varying age and genesis to antique lovers in Istanbul. In July 2011, Dilek Hanım has turned a tiny space in Galata, conveniently located just a few steps from her home, into a charming stop, selling a wide variety of old, new, and simply remarkable pieces. 100-year-old, hand-made school bags? Check. Bronze carousel horse from France? Check. Stuffed turkey from the United States? Check.

It was a natural step for Dilek Hanım to open Sofa: her husband has been in the antique business – or the antique way of life - for 37 years and she entered this mystic world 15 years ago, with her everlasting awareness of form, texture, proportion, color, smells, words, and spaces. She was bound to open up her own space. An antiques extraordinaire as well as a decoration consultant, half hedonist half bohemian, a writer as well as a painter, Dilek Hanım is either on the maxi or the mini, but never in the gray area of mediocrity or ordinariness. She is the kind of woman who sees, feels, experiences, shares. Much like poetry in motion.

And Sofa is a reflection of its owner. When we visited Sofa last week, the store wowed us with its cozy feel and eccentric objects, all of which will make you go back to get a dose of art, life, and light.

The inventory of the store emphasizes beauty, nostalgia, and aesthetics: sculptures of faceless women, sculpture of a naked woman, grand mirror from France, a small but very Middle Eastern mirror from Morocco, soaps from Spain and Syria, large copper jugs that are 100-150 years old. And how does Dilek Hanım choose and find the objects in her store? Well, she buys what she likes in the most unlikely places. The repertoire features objects from her own collection, from Istanbul and from around Turkey, from Egypt, Morocco, Syria, Spain.

The stock is ever changing – mostly because the objects are being sold and partly because Dilek Hanım puts some away when she gets bored. What you’ll always find in store are Dilek Hanım’s own creations: beautiful, kaftan-like jackets; tasseled necklaces; and colorful and minimalist paintings. One of the highlights of the permanent collection is the pomegranate-shaped decorative objects, with ruby stones jutting out, specially made for Sofa. There is a wide range of jewelry coming from the parent store in Nuruosmaniye – they are placed in trays and bowls, and require some meddling, but you’ll find incredible designs.

The old and the new are presented side by side in complete harmony in this tiny little store. All you need to do is search, with jazz or classical music in the background, but you’ll find something astonishing in every corner. Don’t be scared. Just step in to the world of Dilek Hanım and explore.

Sofa Art & Antiques; Serdar-ı Ekrem Sokak No. 47, Galata; P: (0212) 292 39 77

Turkey:A staple of Christmas dinners around the world, cooking a turkey can be a serious challenge for the novice. If you want to avoid any disappointments, just order a cooked turkey. You can get a turkey, which comes withiç pilav(rice with pine nuts and currants), one week in advance from Hünkar or Hacı Abdullah. Both places also sell roasted lamb withbeğendi(eggplant puree) on a daily basis. Santral Şarküteri and Backyard can also prepare a turkey within 2-3 days (iç pilavcomes as a side dish in both places). If you’re the last minute kind, Delicatessen will prepare a turkey or roasted lamb one day in advance with your choice of side dish.

Hünkar;Mim Kemal Öke Caddesi No. 9, Nişantaşı. P: (0212) 225 46 65. Clickherefor more locations.

Santral Şarküteri;Cevdetpaşa Caddesi No. 57D, Bebek. P: (0212) 263 63 52

Hacı Abdullah;Sakızağa Caddesi No. 17, Beyoğlu. P: (0212) 293 85 61

Delicatessen; Mim Kemal Öke Caddesi No.19/1, Nişantaşı; P:(0212) 225 06 04

Backyard; Bebeköy Sokak No. 1, Etiler; P: (0212) 287 15 00

Chicken:If you’d rather have chicken instead of turkey (or if you want to have both), you can get a delicious roasted chicken fromWienerWald.Başa Sokak No. 3/A, Levent; P: (0212) 264 67 67

Pork:If you’ve been living in Istanbul for a while, you already know that you can’t get pork everywhere. In fact, Lazari Kozmaoğlu is the only pork butcher in the city where you’ll find a variety of pork products. But if you’re just after good pork bacon, you can get it at a Macrocenter branch.

Lazari Kozmaoğlu; Katmerli Sokak No. 6/8, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 235 78 65

Macrocenter; Kanyon Shopping Mall, Büyükdere Caddesi No.185, Levent; P: (0212) 353 05 70

Pumpkin pie:You’re celebrating Christmas in Istanbul so you might as well add a Turkish twist to your dinner. If you want to make your own pumpkin dessert, check out ourrecipefor candied pumpkin. If you’d rather buy something, Vonalı Celal, a restaurant specializing in food from the Black Sea region, has a light and tasty pumpkin dessert calledkabak pastası. This dessert is made using a cookie base topped with stewed pumpkin and cream, and sprinkled with a generous amount of ground hazelnuts.

Vonalı Celal; Sapphire Shopping Mall, Büyükdere Caddesi, 4.Levent; P: (0212) 268 84 50

Marzipan:Badem ezmesiis the Turkish variant of marzipan that is slightly less sweet. To get the best kind, head toMeşhur Bebek Badem Ezmesi.Cevdet Paşa Caddesi No. 53/C, Bebek; P: (0212) 263 59 84

Apple pie:You can get apple strudel from Café Wien, where they always have some in stock, but if you don’t want to take any chances, just call one day in advance. You can also get apple strudel delivered to your door from WienerWald.

Café Wien; Milli Reasürans Arcade, Teşvikiye Caddesi No. 43/57, Nişantaşı; P: (0212) 231 89 63

Wienerwald; Başa Sokak No. 3/A, Levent; P: (0212) 264 67 67

Christmas cake/Bûche de Noël:Baylan makes a greatbûche de Noël. Alternatively, Tu Ta has a fruity Christmas Cake on offer. If you just want cake with chestnuts, Baylan and Dolce have delicious ones on offer. If you want to go for something a little different, get chocolate with chestnuts instead of cake. Divan has maron deguise to die for, and Vakko’s chocolate with chestnuts is mouthwatering, too.

Baylan; Cevdet Paşa Caddesi No:52-54, Bebek; P: (0212) 358 07 60

Tu Ta;Vefa Bey Sokak Say Apartmanı B Blok 25C, Gayrettepe; P: (0212) 275 59 37

Dolce;Kuruçeşme Caddesi No. 25, Arnavutköy; P: (0212) 257 49 37

Divan;Cevdet Paşa Caddesi No. 28/A, Bebek; P:(0212) 257 72 70-71

Vakko Chocolate; İstinyePark Shopping Mall, İstinye; P: (0212) 345 58 30

Gingerbread:If you’re after traditional gingerbread, you can get it at Le Pain Quotidien. If you’re just after something sweet with ginger in it, try Istanbul Cupcakery’s ginger orange cupcakes.

Le Pain Quotidien; Kanyon Shopping Mall, Büyükdere Caddesi No. 185, Levent; P: (0212) 353 06 77

Panettone:If you want to enjoy this Milanese specialty, order it fromBackyardtwo days in advance.Bebeköy Sokak No. 1, Etiler; P: (0212) 287 15 00

Rumisu is Deniz and Pınar Yengin’s joint venture that brings together their passions for art, design, fashion, and illustration. The rumisu shawls that are being sold at Dört Mevsim called Swinging Sultans represent the flawless blend of historical figures and traditional methods with creativity and humor. The shawls feature illustrated designs of Ottoman sultans and women of the harem. The shawls are all in white, but the prints come in blue and red; the shawls also feature hanging embroidery called oya. Although oya is a traditional embroidery technique known for its wide use in yazma (colorful headscarves worn mostly by young girls in rural areas), sisters Deniz and Pınar have successfully applied this technique in elegant shawls for the modern city dweller.

Pınar Hekimoğlu’s jewelry line features a range of pieces from sparkly earrings, rings, and bracelets to colorful silky bands with skulls. In this collection, there is something for everyone: big, sparkly rings for the ones who like their jewelry to take the center stage of their outfit, as well as tasteful and subtle designs that don’t necessarily stand out but serve as the finishing touches of an outfit.

Dört Mevsim’s own porcelain tableware collection, which includes colorful coffee cups and white bowls, has been shaped by hand, so each piece carries the beautiful imperfection of a hand-made object. If you like crooked pieces of tableware, you’ll love the pieces in this new collection.

Keep in mind that if you go to Dört Mevsim to check out their latest products, you’ll be sucked in by the beauty of all the other products there: silver-plated trays, cushions, peştemal (light Turkish towel), natural soaps, Voluspa brand candles, comfy clothes made of 100\\\\\% cotton or silk, 100& silver or leather handmade bracelets, gold-plated pendants in Istanbul-inspired shapes (like fez, hammam clogs, and the Galata Tower), bed linens, and much much more!

Cevdetpaşa Caddesi No. 7/2, Bebek; P: (0212) 263 87 82

Kids Story

1. Gingerbread man: 11 TL – Tepe Home

2. Basket : 69.95 TL – Zara Home

3. Mini, red Christmas tree: 99.50 TL – Laura Ashley

4. Bird (glassware): 32 TL – Dört Mevsim

5. Starfish (glassware): 15 TL - Dört Mevsim

6. Tall gift box (fabric): 22.50 TL – Tepe Home

7. Small gift box with handle: 12.50 TL – Tepe Home

8. Big bird: 12.50 TL – Tepe Home; Small bird: 11.50 TL – Tepe Home

9. Snowman basket (fabric): 9.90 TL - Tepe Home

10. Tablecloth with reindeer design: 139.95 TL – Zara Home

11. Reindeer with red nose: 49.95 TL – Zara Home

12. Reindeer with plaid top: 29 TL - Tepe Home

Romantic Christmas

1. Cushion with bells: 79 TL– Dört Mevsim

2. Gold napkin holder with reindeer design: 29.95 TL – Zara Home

3. Red napkin (4 pack): 49.95 TL - Zara Home

4. Big, round red candle (product name: dazzle): 49 TL - Habitat

5. Tray: 69 TL – Dört Mevsim

6. Medium, round gold candle (product name: dazzle): 35 TL - Habitat

7. Angel candle (2 pack): 16.95 TL – Zara Home

8. Mini gold ornament (3 pack): 69.50 TL – Laura Ashley

The One With the Champagne

1. Mini Christmas tree: 49.50 TL - Vent Du Sud

2. Owl candle (product name: hoot):79 TL – Habitat

3. Small pumpkin: 189 TL – Dört Mevsim; Medium pumpkin: 220 TL - Dört Mevsim; Large pumpkin: 255 TL - Dört Mevsim

4. Small, silver-plated shallow plate: 280 TL – Dört Mevsim

5. Big wooden board: 177 TL – Dört Mevsim

6. Reindeer with lights: 135 TL – Laura Ashley

7. Ice bucket: 240 TL – Dört Mevsim

8. Silver candle snuffer:40 TL – Dört Mevsim

9. Small, glass candleholder: 45 TL – Dört Mevsim; Medium, glass candleholder: 78 TL – Dört Mevsim

Vent du Sud

1. Ornament: 29.50 TL

2. Cushion: 69.50 TL each

3. Reindeer: 159.50 TL

4. Ornaments: price ranges between 22.50 TL - 69.50 TL

Dört Mevsim; Cevdetpaşa Caddesi No. 7/2, Bebek; P: (0212) 263 87 82

Tepe Home;Cevahir Shopping Mall, Büyükdere Caddesi No.22, Şişli; P: (0212) 380 03 03

Zara Home; İstinyePark Shopping Mall, Istinye Bayırı Caddesi No.73, İstinye; P: (0212) 345 51 43

Laura Ashley;Bağdat Caddesi No.328/B, Erenköy; P:(0216) 363 75 36

Vent du Sud;Avukat Süreyya Ağaoğlu Sokak No.5/B, Teşvikiye; P: (0212) 219 35 40

Habitat;Kanyon Shopping Mall, Levent; P: (0212) 353 53 09

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Christmas Gift Ideas; By Talya Arditi

Ezgi and Lian – the fashionable girls behind the uber-chic Luxury Shoppers website – put together the best looks for all sorts of New Year’s Eve plans. Whether you’re planning to barhop, dance ‘till dawn at a house party, have a romantic evening with your better half, splurge on a delicious dinner at a hotel, or get together with a couple of friends for a we-don’t-celebrate-New-Year’s-Eve celebration, Ezgi and Lian have a look that you (and everyone in the room) will love. Just browse the photos above and take your pick.

Want to give your friends an inspiring gift for the New Year? Then give them an experience that they will remember!

Tasting Menu at Mikla: The perfect gift for a foodie is the tasting menu at Mikla, one of the best restaurants in Istanbul with a Scandinavian-Turkish cuisine. You can get a nine-course tasting menu with matching beverages for 210 TL, or just the tasting menu for 140 TL. For more information and to buy your gift voucher, send an email to sabihaapaydin@miklarestaurant.comor call (0212) 293 56 56.

Workshop at the Istanbul Culinary Institute: If your friend loves cooking or if you want your other half to become a better cook, get them a voucher for the cooking classes offered at theIstanbul Culinary Institute. They offer a range of classes each month, from Turkish cuisine and Italian cuisine to pastry making and finger food. Send an email to info@istanbulculinary.comor call (0212) 251 22 14 to buy your voucher.

Concert Ticket: There are amazing performances going on in Istanbul all the time. If you know what your friend likes, just go to Biletix and purchase two tickets for a concert that you can enjoy together. (Make sure you check out our Agenda before you decide which concert you want to take your friend to.)

Babylon Gift Card: If you want to take the safe route, buy a Babylon Gift Voucher from Biletix that your friend can use towards a concert of their own choice.

Museum Entrance Card: The perfect gift for your artsy friend is getting them entrance to over 300 museums in Turkey for an entire year. The participating museums in Istanbul include the Istanbul Archeological Museums, the Chora Church, and the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum. The card costs 20 TL and can be purchased online (just click here).Just keep in mind that the card is valid only for Turkish citizens and you’ll need to learn the identity card number of your friend before you can buy it for them.(To see a full list of participating museums, click here.)

Istanbul Tour: Regardless of whether you’ve been in Istanbul for 20 years or 20 days, there is always something new to discover in this beautiful city. Give your friend the gift of adventure and exploration, and buy a daily tour of Istanbul. Fest Travel has some great options, such as the Golden Horn full-day walking tour, the Jewish Heritage tour, and Istanbul by night. For a full list of what they currently have on offer, click here.

Subscription to The Guide Istanbul magazine: Istanbul is constantly growing and changing - it’s almost impossible to keep up. That is, unless you read the bi-monthly magazine The Guide Istanbul where you can get candid recommendations and expert advice on everything about Istanbul. So give the gift of knowledge and subscribe your friend to The Guide Istanbul magazine for one year. Just contact us at info@theguideistanbul.com and we’ll do the rest.

Four Seasons Gift Card: Get your friend a Four Seasons Gift Card that can be used towards all Four Seasons services, including spa treatments, dining, and accommodation. Give them an excuse to travel more! For more details, click here.

Inter Limousine Rental: Rent a limo for a day or a few hours to get to party, to drive over one of the bridges that connect Asia and Europe, or to get to the airport. Click here to see all the options.

We all dream of a “White Christmas” in whichever city we’re in; but unfortunately, the snow seems to be keeping us waiting a bit longer every passing year in Istanbul. However, Vakko Suadiye has found the perfect way of keeping the Christmas excitement alive, with pouring real-like snow all around!

Vakko Suadiye now has an inspirational window-dressing that has never been done in Istanbul before. If you go to Bağdat Caddesi in December between 4:00pm-8:00pm, you won’t be able to miss the fascinated crowd standing in front of the store, mesmerized by the décor and lights. Once you’re there, you can enjoy mulled wine on the snow-covered entrance of Vakko with lighted up Christmas trees and lovely little deer imitations. And the best part? It’s always snowing at Vakko Suadiye!

The story of Vakko: It all started with a hat

Some of you may not know this, but the brand Vakko started out as a hat-producing factory called Şen Şapka (roughly translated as Merry Hat) in 1934 by Vitali Hakko. After over 70 years, Vakko is an umbrella term for everything great: home decorations, chocolates, perfumes, clothing, and even a separate store for wedding dresses. So when you go to check out the fake snow and the beautiful window-dressing, be sure to go inside and check out what Vakko has to offer for the Christmas season. If you’re looking for some cheerful Christmas decorations or smart gifts, you’ll find great options here, like an ornate candlestick, an authentic coffee or wine holder, a chic laptop bag, or an off-the-shelf gift box including shirts, ties, wallets, and cufflinks.

Curious yet? Click here for a preview of what you’re going to see when you get there.

Bağdat Caddesi No. 422 Suadiye; P:(0216) 463 26 06

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Christmas Gift Ideas; by Talya Arditi

Now Londoners can shop at Lokum Istanbul without needing to buy a plane ticket to Turkey: Keyman has opened a branch of the storeon Walton Street in London’s upscale Knightsbridge neighborhood. Everything in the store (designed by Anouska Hempel) recalls Turkey’s Ottoman past, from the Ottoman-themed wallpaper designs to the lokum’s distinctive packaging, which features black-and-white etchings of Ottoman-era scenes. Visitors can purchase lokum in a variety of flavors: pistachio, ginger, lemon, cinnamon, rosewater, mint, fig-walnut, and violet. The store also sells the hard candies known in Turkish as akide (in lavender, cinnamon, violet, mint, lemon, bergamot, fig, and ginger), as well as its own line of cologne, and scented candles. Additionally, Lokum Istanbul offers Keyman’s custom-made stationery, as well as traditional Turkish silver hamam taşları (washing bowls) and silver coffee cups.

For the foodie:Obviously, you can’t take all that seductive Turkish food back home with you. But what you can do is buy a cookbook that includes recipes by Istanbul’s top chefs and best-selling food writers carefully chosen for easy applicability in the home kitchen. All this and more is provided in Istanbul Contemporary Cuisine, a sturdy tome packed with mouth-watering recipes and impressive photography. And did we mention it’s the winner of the 2010 Special Award of the Gourmand Jury? Just click here to buy it in English, French, or Turkish. And if you want to add that extra bit to your gift, head to Mısır Çarşısı (Egyptian Bazaar) and buy a mix of spices to go with the book. (Make sure you read this article before you head to Mısır Çarşısı.) Mısır Çarşısı; Ragıp Gümüşpala Caddesi Eminönü Meydanı, Eminönü.

For the spiritual warrior:Buy tesbih (Turkish prayer or worry beads) at Tesbihçi Cemil ve Kadir Karateke where you’ll find an incredible selection of tesbih made from a range of semi-precious materials. Şerifağa Sokak No.141-142 İç Bedesten, Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet. P: (0212) 527 65 23

For the snooze addict:Instant coffee is one thing, Turkish coffee is another thing. If you’ve spent enough time in Istanbul, you know that Turkish coffee serves as a great wake-up-call. The problem: it is an art to make Turkish coffee properly. At least, it used to be. Now, we have the electronic Turkish coffee makers that do the trick for us. So buy an electronic coffee maker for your too-grouchy-to-talk-in-the-morning friend, relative, or ex-flatmate. Don’t forget to head to Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi to buy Turkish coffee. And if you like, buy a set that comes with cezve (traditional pot for making coffee) and coffee cups. If you want to mix things up, get cinnamon, chocolate, or mastic flavored coffee from Selamlique.

You can find the electronic coffee maker (click here to check it out) at Arçelik, an electronics store spread around the city. If you’re around Etiler/Levent, they have a store in Akmerkez shopping mall on Level Z (P: 0212 2820204).If you’re around the Galata area for some last minute sightseeing, there is a store right by the Galata Tower on Büyükhendek Caddesi No. 12 (P: 0212 2490514). You can also head to Valikonağı Caddesi No. 119 in Nişantaşı, located very close to the American Hospital as well as City’s Nişantaşı shopping mall (P: 0212 2466193).

Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi; Tahmis Sokak No. 66, Eminönü; P:(0212) 522 00 80

Selamlique; Ebulula Mardin Caddesi N.35, Levent; P: (0212)327 79 04

For the traveler:When you go home and start telling all your adventures, your traveler friend will get jealous. We’re talking green envy here. So ward off the evil with the TOP 7 pocket guide that comes with the November/December issue of The Guide Istanbul magazine. The pocket book includes TOP 7 lists of everything you need to know about Istanbul, including restaurants, must-see sights, Turkish taverns, bars, Turkish designers, gift shops, tradesmen’s restaurants, cool buys as well as TOP 7 things to do by district. Just head to your nearest major bookstore to get it.

For the hipster: Buy a quirky design object at Kağıthane (House of Paper), a small design shop in Karaköy that has an innovative mix of items, from notebooks and postcards to folding fans and bags—all with a humorous edge and all inspired by Istanbul and Turkish culture. Kemankeş Caddesi Fransız İş Geçidi No.11, Karaköy. P: (0212) 251 71 95

For the eco-friendly hippie:Get something organic at Abdulla Natural Products. The shop carries a range of all-natural, traditional Turkish bath products, such as hand-loomed towels, olive oil soap, peştemal (Turkish towels), and bathrobes. Halıcılar Caddesi No. 58/60,Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet. P: (0212) 527 36 84

For the socially responsible friend:Your friend is an ethical consumer and won’t buy anything unless it will do good to someone. No worries. For something stylish, organic, and still very Turkish, just head to Nahıl Dükkan. This shop is one of the many projects of Kadın Emeğini Değerlendirme Vakfı (KEDV), a non-profit organization that supports women.In this store, you can find a whole range of Turkish must-buys, including peştemal, hamam accessories, hand-embroidered scarves, and travel bags, all at very reasonable prices. İstiklal Caddesi Bekar sokak No.17, Beyoğlu. P: (0212) 251 90 85

Then everything changed, for better and for worse. Eating acquired a new meaning beyond feeling full and satisfied. It became the essence of socializing, having a good time, discovering world cultures, and, sometimes, of social status. Cooking and wine-tasting courses, gastronomy tours, specialty gourmet shops, world-famous brands, excellent restaurants representing world cuisine, foreign chefs, and a whole new terminology invaded our lives.

On the one hand, our horizons widened and the growing sector called for more staff, equipment, and ingredients. Chefs became trendy. Expressions like “searing”, “reduction”, and “…served on a bed of…” entered the vernacular. Organic products and lollo rosso lettuce entered our lives. Even those chefs obsessed with world cuisines sought inspiration from local products. Pekmez (grape molasses), nar ekşisi (pomegranate molasses), and local cheeses came closer to getting the attention they deserve. Movements like Slow Food as well as civil initiatives attracted wider interest. On the other hand, seasonality decreased, and flavors changed and became blander. Even though a wider variety of ingredients is available today, more effort must be made to recapture earlier flavors and eat a healthy diet.

Some of my favorite places for food shopping — not only as a chef and cooking-school founder, but also for my own kitchen — have been the same for years. Some places have been added to this list, and some places have closed down due to financial reasons. (I especially miss the mastic-flavored Easter bread from the Konak patisserie in Kurtuluş.) It’s very difficult to survive and become corporate in Turkey. In that sense, the 20th anniversary of The Guide Istanbul magazine is a very important and exciting occasion. With my sincere congratulations, here’s a selection of my favorite food shops…

Üç Yıldız Şekerlemecisiis located in the Beyoğlu fish market, and, with its Turkish Delights, hard candies, and jams displayed in hundred-year-old jam jars, is a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds.Dudu Odaları Sokak No.7 Beyoğlu; P:(0212) 293 81 70

The right address for delicious mezes isTuşbain Kurtuluş. Olive oil dishes, stuffed grape leaves, pickles, mezes… everything here is scrumptious.Ergenekon Caddesi No. 53 Pangaltı; P:(0212) 247 13 42

The most delicious tavuk göğsü (roughly translated as “chicken breast dessert”) can be found atÖzkonakin Cihangir, where it is made fresh with buffalo milk.Akarsu Caddesi No.46/B Cihangir; P:(0212) 249 13 07

Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendiare probably everybody’s favorites when it comes to Turkish coffee, so don’t be too lazy to make the trek to Tahtakale.Tahmis Sokak No. 66 Eminönü; P:(0212) 522 00 80

For dried fruits and nuts, the best place to go has always beenMalatya Pazarıin theSpice Bazaar.Mısır Çarşısı No.40 Eminönü; P:(0212) 522 55 92

For me,Imren Fishmongerjust outside the Spice Bazaar is the best place for fresh and reliable seafood.

TheGalatasaray Ciğercisiis a shop located in the Beyoğlu fish market that specializes in liver, as indicated by the name. But don’t be fooled; they also sell quail, duck, turkey, and goose when in season.

Kurtuluş Damla Patisseriewas my childhood favorite, particularly the caramel ice cream.

For all kind of spices, visitAyfer Kaurin the Egyptian Spice Market. I would particularly recommend their sahlep, especially as there is so much poor quality sahlep available these days.Mısır Çarşısı içi No.7 Eminönü; P:(0212) 522 45 23

Gap came, Banana Republic came, Aldo came, Steve Madden came… And, finally, Victoria’s Secret is here… The bras are not, but at least the underwear and beauty products are.

Yesterday, possibly the most sought-after intimate-wear store Victoria’s Secret opened its first store in Istanbul in City’s shopping center. The store, which is only a Beauty and Accessories shop, features a wide range of perfumes, body lotions, body scrubs, aromatic shower gels, and cosmetics as well as select bags, sunglasses, and underwear.

Of their current collection, the December-special perfume “Bombshell” with an aromatic fragrance of Italian grapes and vanilla orchid and the January-special perfume “Gorgeous” with strawberry, jasmine, and sandalwood top our list of must-haves.

So head to Victoria’s Secret and treat yourself to an early New Year’s gift. Keep in mind that they’ll be renewing their collection in January, July, September, and November, so don’t overspend. City's Nişantaşı, Teşvikiye Caddesi No.162, Nişantaşı; P: (0212) 373 29 90

Today, Aveda sells a range of products, from skincare to haircare, which are all as organic as possible. Not just a marketing ploy, Aveda has a history of producing organic products and being a socially responsible company since its founding. Today a part of the Estée Lauder Companies, they continue to partner with local communities to create innovative and organic products that get results.

As anybody who knows Turkish women can tell you, they love going to the hairdresser, which often results in damaged, processed hair. Aveda products are distributed through top salons, and offer an all-natural solution. Popular products include the Color Conserve Shampoo and Conditioner, which extends the vibrancy of color-treated hair and resists fading; the Hand Relief cream, which soothes dry, chapped hands using hydrating plant emollients, exfoliating fruit acids, and anti-oxidants; and the cooling Foot Relief cream, with lavender and rosemary oils. Available at Erdem Kıramer salons in Istanbul. Aveda Erdem Kıramer;Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Nispetiye Caddesi No.114 Etiler; P:(0212) 282 19 12

Nishmark.com is a website where you can find your favorite stationery products, from stylish pens to handmade notebooks. Whether it’s a special gift for a friend who cares about being stylish at work, or a handmade notebook for yourself, Nishmark.com has it all. The company’s stock includes well-known international brands like Graf von Faber Castell, E + M, Lamy, Parker, and Waterman, as well as boutique Turkish stationery brands like Kumm, Kağıthane, and many others.

Nishmark is now offering Sasanna products to its customers. Sasanna, which began production in 2004, caters to lovers of elegant, tasteful stationery. You can find card- and pen-holders in dark brown, red, and dark gray (the “Enderun” series), or in turquoise, green, and black (“Hürrem”). There is also the “Alem” series, featuring oxide brass travertine and silver-plated marble paperweights which come in chic black boxes.

New Year is coming up soon as well, and those in need of gift ideas can buy colorful, fun, or elegant gifts for their loved ones without leaving their apartment. You can find yo-yos; book holders; chic versatile pens; notebooks made to look like chocolates; E+M designs for the ecologically conscious; leather handmade notebooks by Kumm for those who prefer elegant, limited-edition products; and Sassana products for traditionalists.

We suggest you avoid avoiding the inevitable, put on your largest pair of pants, and enjoy a delicious turkey (and all the other traditional Thanksgiving dishes) on Thursday, November 24th.

If you dare not cook a turkey by yourself, here is where you can order from:

Hünkar– order 1 week in advance

Mim Kemal Öke Caddesi No. 9, Nişantaşı. P: (0212) 225 46 65. Click here for more locations.

Santral Şarküteri– order 3-5 days in advance

Cevdetpaşa Caddesi No. 57D, Bebek. P: (0212) 263 63 52

Hacı Abdullah– order 1 week in advance

Sakızağa Caddesi No. 17, Beyoğlu. P: (0212) 293 85 61

If the thought of cooking a Thanksgiving dinner is daunting, there is always a caterer who will go through the pain for you. Vanesserie will prepare not just turkey but a full-blown Thanksgiving dinner including the pumpkin pie, the stuffing, and the potatoes— whatever your heart desires. Just place an order at least three days in advance, and keep in mind that the minimum number of people that they will create a Thanksgiving dinner for is six and the maximum is forty.

If a set menu suits you right, order Süprem Catering’s Thanksgiving menu that includes bresaola with fig and mascarpone on crackers, pumpkin soup, turkey with mulberry sauce, red cabbage with grapes, scalloped potatoes and fennel, and apple crumble. Just order three days in advance whether you’re a party of eight or 500, and you’re good to go.

If you don’t enjoy the leftover-turkey-fest that follows Thanksgiving, order Thanksgiving menus that feature turkey drumsticks instead of an entire turkey from Dream Day, a caterer that is committed to everything local and organic. Since you’re going easy with the main meal, order both the pumpkin pie and the pumpkin tart.

If you're too late to buy a turkey or arrange a caterer, don't sweat it. Just order a roast chicken from WienerWald and have a humble Thanksgiving dinner. After all, it's all about getting together with friends and family, right?

Vanesserie; Vezirköşkü Sokak No.6 D.1, Bebek. P: (0212) 263 00 40

Süprem Catering; Kuştepe Mahallesi Yoncalı Sokak No.4/A Mecidiyeköy, Şişli. P: (0212) 211 9667

Dream Day; E-80 Karayolu Kamer Çıkmazı No.2, Beykoz; P: (0216) 680 32 77

WienerWald;Başa Sokak No. 3/A, Levent; P: (0212) 264 67 67. Click here for more locations.

Our special November/December issue celebrates all that is unique about Istanbul and features articles by Kadir Topbaş (mayor of Istanbul), İzzeddin Çalışlar (writer), Tim Hindle (writer), Mustafa Akyol (journalist), Özalp Birol (Director of the Pera Museum), and more. You’ll even find Changa’s Chef Civan Er’s special baklava recipe inspired by Istanbul as well as Istanbul caricatures by the famous caricaturist Salih Memecan.

The magazine also comes with a TOP 7 pocket book that includes TOP 7 lists of everything from restaurants and must-see sights to cultural and religious sites. If you’ve always wanted to know the TOP 7 Turkish taverns, bars, Turkish designers, gift shops, tradesmen restaurants, cool buys as well as TOP 7 things to do by district, our TOP 7 booklet will become your best pal in Istanbul.

So head to your nearest major bookstore or newsstand, and grab your copy. To subscribe, contact us here.

Available only at YKM stores, Agenda by Zeynep Tosun Collection features 90 pieces including tuxedo-inspired suits, high-waisted pants and skirts, dresses, chic shirts and blouses. The color palette is dominated by crème, camel, dusty pink, navy blue, and black. Bowties, belts, patterns, and polka dots serve as the finishing touches.

YKM;Cevahir Shopping Center, Büyükdere Caddesi No.22; P: (0212) 380 00 07

Sapphire, Emniyetevler Mahallesi, Eski Büyükdere Caddesi No.1; P: (0212) 268 82 20

Forum Istanbul, Kocatepe Mahallesi, Şehirparkı Caddesi 12. Sokak Eski Gümrük Alanı No.15; P: (0212) 437 37 43

The Turkish chain Silk & Cashmere currently has stores in 22 countries worldwide. Their Grand Bazaar outlet is their 150th store, selling 100\\\\\\\\% cashmere and 100\\\\\\\\% knitwear and accessories for both men and women. The company also carries a special blend known as cashsilk, and offers product lines for babies (My First Cashmere), pets (Puppy Cashmere), and a domestic line.

Silk & Cashmere; Kapalı Çarşı Kalpakçılar Caddesi No.74, Eminönü; P: (0212) 522 52 22

M.A.C, known as one of the most popular brands of cosmetics in Turkey, with nearly a dozen locations in Istanbul alone, now has a new store at 78 Kalpakçılar Caddesi, one of the Grand Bazaar’s main shopping thoroughfares. M.A.C’s many products include lipsticks, eye liners and eye shadows, brushes, and skin care products.

M.A.C; Kapalı Çarşı Kalpakçılar Caddesi No.78, Eminönü; P: (0212) 512 28 68

The first Butik Vakko store opened in the Grand Bazaar in the 1930s, at a time when the company was best known for its hats and accessories. Today, Vakko is ubiquitous in Turkey as a provider of men’s and women’s clothing; among their many products are shirts, ties, scarves, shawls, bags and other accessories, as well as chocolates and perfumes.

Vakko; Kapalı Çarşı Kalpakçılar Caddesi No.101, Eminönü; P: (0212) 527 78 31

You want to get a gift for your friends back home but don’t want to go for a classic souvenir? Then head to Mavi stores and take a look at their Istanbul t-shirts.

The collection is available for men, women, and kids, and comes in both short and long sleeves. A variety of designs are featured on the t-shirts, from the Galata Tower to the Bosphorus. In fact, they’ve recently added 8 new designs to the Istanbul collection, so it’s likely you’ll find something that would suit your friends’ tastes. You may even end up buying one for yourself!

While you’re there, make sure you take a look at their Elif Şafak t-shirts adorned with quotations from her novels. Şafak is an internationally-renowned Turkish novelist whose books have been translated into over 30 languages.

Available now at all Mavi stores. Don’t wait too long and go grab some off the shelves.

Mavi; İstiklalCaddesi No. 195, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 244 62 55

Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler; P: (0212) 282 04 24

Astoria Shopping Mall, Esentepe; P: (0212) 215 21 55

Known for its distinctive gold-colored boxes of chocolates, Godiva is currently offering a special Bayram Collection in time for the Turkish Kurban Bayramı holiday. With patterns inspired by the jewelry boxes of the Ottoman sultans, and a color scheme that mixes turquoise with Godiva’s traditional gold and brown, the Bayram Collection is visually striking. The wide range of treats in the Bayram Collection include not only white chocolates, milk chocolates, and dark chocolates, and homemade pralines and truffles, but also chocolate-covered dates, pistachio paste, and almond paste.

The Bayram Collection is available at all Godiva stores in Istanbul.

Istanbul is getting colder by the day, and it’s time for super stylish gals to head to shops and indulge in some winter shopping. Here are this season’s stylish shoes and boots brought to you by the Turkish brand Hotiç.

The 2011-2012 Fall/Winter collection is created around four main themes: 60s Pop Vintage, 80s Lux Grunge, Minimal Masculine, and Day&Night.

60s Pop Vintage:A mix of old-school style with modern lines, heavy in geometric forms and block heels. Contrasting colors, including dark blue, brown, and yellow, and red tones dominate. Available as heels and flats.

80s Lux Grunge:Perfect for the I-haven’t-made-an effort look that takes hours to prepare. Worn-out leather and vintage-inspired alligator prints are used. Brown, navy blue, ginger tones dominate.

Minimal Masculine:Despite the name, the shoes carry a feminine sex appeal. Flats, oxfords, and laced shoes take the lead. Navy blue, black, camel are dominating colors.

Day & Night:Comfort for the working professional who needs to type up all day at the office and jump up all night at the club. Platform heels do the trick, bringing just a little bit more comfort to heels.

Hotiç;Akmerkez Shopping Mall, Etiler; P:(0212) 282 05 65

Metrocity Shopping Mall, Levent; P:(0212) 344 01 40-41

Halloween is not as big of a deal in Turkey as it in the States, but there are still a few celebrations going around the city*. So if you want to get in the mood and dress up, here is a list of shops from where you can rent or buy costumes.

Costumes

Sihirli Sandık: If you don’t want to look scary but cool, this is the costume shop that you need to check out. It has a huge variety of historic costumes, from the Baroque period to the 1970s. You can rent for up to 3 days, and the prices range between 50 TL – 150 TL. Address: Hüseyin Ağa Mahallesi Kemer Hatun Caddesi Topçekerler Sokak No.5, Beyoğlu; (0212) 249 01 37

Garderobe: If you want to turn yourself into something extraordinary for one night—be it a crab, a shark, a cockroach, or an apple—you’ll find a great variety of fun costumes here. For the more classic type, there is a huge range of historic costumes as well. You can rent for up to 3 days, and the prices range between 60 TL and 200 TL, plus a deposit of 100 TL, which is fully-refunded as long as the costume is returned without damage. Address:Tomtom Mahallesi Yeni Çarşı Caddesi Demirhan Apartmanı No.38, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 251 33 73

By Retro: This is not really a costume store but a second-hand clothing shop where you can find a variety of items to turn into a fantastic Halloween costume. If you want to be a 1980s disco star, look for something retro-chic here. Address:İstiklal Caddesi Suriye Pasajı No.166, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 245 64 20

The Grand Bazaar: This is the world’s first mall, and is still a shopper’s paradise. And even though it doesn’t feature a costume shop among its 4000-plus stores, you can find a variety of Ottoman clothing and accessories that can easily be turned into a costume. Go for a belly-dancing outfit, a şalvar (traditional baggy pants), fez, kavuk (traditional Ottoman turban), or çarık (traditional pointy slippers). You can also take advantage of the jewelry stores to vamp up a costume. You’ll find lots of retro, faux-vintage, and ethnic jewelry at the Grand Bazaar.

Haloween Cakes

If you’d rather celebrate Halloween at a house party, add some party spirit with a Halloween cake.

Coccolat:A cake shop and a cake-decorating school in one, Coccolat’s repertoire includes cakes in the shape of a Brandy bottle, 3-leaved clover, a gift box, and they will be more than happy to cater to your Halloween needs. Just place an order 4-5 days in advance. Address:Bağdat Caddesi Rüştiye Sokak No.8, Kızıltoprak; P: (0216) 449 95 90

Rococo Cakes: They have a peacock cake under their belt; they can surely handle a frog, a snake, or a spider. Just place your order 2 days in advance and get a wonderfully-designed, flavorful cake. Address:Cevdet Paşa Caddesi Engin Konak Apartmanı No.23/1, Bebek; P: (0212) 263 93 19

Happy Caking: If you want an all-organic cake, Happy Caking is the place to go. Just order your Halloween cake 2 days in advance, and you’re good to go.Address:Göksu Göztepe Caddesi G38 Sokak No.1, Anadoluhisarı; P: (0216) 465 73 70

Rebul Kolonya – a cologne first sold in Beyoğlu’s historic Rebul Pharmacy, founded in 1895 – is now offering two new fragrances to consumers: Rebul Mandarine and Rebul Lime. These two new varieties come as alternatives to the brand’s popular lavender-scented Rebul Lavanda, made from lavender specially picked near the city of Grasse in the South of France.

Rebul Mandarine’s unique scent consists of a base of mandarin orange (tangerine), harvested from the Aegean city of Bodrum, and accentuated with essences of lime, white peach, Lily of the Valley, and African violet. Rebul Lime’s bouquet is a blend of Sicilian lemon, bergamot, citrus, and Lily of the Valley, with hints of sandalwood, white musk, and amber.

Rebul Lime and Rebul Mandarine, as well as classic Rebul Lavanda, are sold in 380 and 180 ml bottles, and are available at select supermarkets, pharmacies, and perfumeries.

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Rebul Eczanesi;Istiklal Caddesi No. 48/D Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 444 12 58

The collection, which was showcased at Armaggan’s Nuruosmaniye store last week, has forty unique pieces—all romantic and elegant, with a touch of naivety. The collection includes tight-fitting jackets, pants, flowing dresses, and silk blouses. The entire collection, which is dominated by tones of pink and gray, was created using traditional sewing techniques and special fabrics.

The limited edition collection will be sold at Armaggan’s Nuruosmaniye and Nişantaşı stores from 15th of December.

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Armaggan in Nişantaşı; Abdi İpekçi Caddesi Bostan Sokak No. 8, Nişantaşı; P:(0212) 291 62 92

Armaggan in Nuruosmaniye; Nuruosmaniye Caddesi No.65, Nuruosmaniye; P: (0212) 522 44 33

This vintage-inspired store sells objects from France and clothes from England, as well as dresses designed by owner Banu Ones. Only the armchairs and chandeliers are second-hand; everything else in the store is brand new with a retro feel. The inventory includes notepads, bags, purses, boxes, bowls, vases, cups, and much much more. They even sell soap dishes and toothbrush holders.

If you’re in the Nişantaşı area and want to get something cool for yourself or a friend, now you know where to go.

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Atöyle Mariposa;Teşvikiye Caddesi No.21/1 Teşvikiye; P:(0212) 327 81 77

The beauty of fashion is that it never gets tired, and always has something fresh to offer. At the start of every new season you can feel the excitement in the air as the latest looks hit the catwalk, quickly followed by the buzz of the critics.

One of the first big trends that we noticed on the runway this season was the drop in hemlines, as skirts are getting longer. This is not an entirely new trend; we saw hints of this change in previous seasons. But unlike last season, where we saw more variety in lengths, longer hems seem to dominate this season.

The second big trend we’ve seen on the catwalks this season is 60’s mod style. Mary Quant’s influence could clearly be seen in the Prada, Blumarine, and Burberry Prorsum shows. Maybe Miuccia Prada was inspired by visions of Twiggy dressed in Paco Rabanne, or was influenced by Roger Vadim’s classic movie Barbarella.

Moving onto the next big trend – patterns! There were many sequins and patterns featuring birds, daisies and lilies of the valley at the Miu Miu show. There were also many romantic flower blossoms at Givenchy, on flowing patterned skirts. At Gucci, most of the accessories were glossy snakeskin. In fact, we are sure that this will be one of the most important trends of the season, with Pucci’s killer snakeskin boots sure to be on the top of everyone’s wish list. Python looks set to be the new leopard for this winter season. Meanwhile, fetish items are also appearing on many runways, and are particularly popular for accessories.

The next big trend is metallic colors, and here the must-have items of the season include a Dolce & Gabbana emerald green metallic dress as well as Alexander Wang’s high-heeled copper loafers – both deliciously decadent. Balmain also featured some rock ‘n roll inspired looks, such as a skinny gold tuxedo and skinny silver pants that were reminiscent of David Bowie.

The color palette for the season is very clear; primary colors dominate the runways. Everywhere you look, it’s emeralds, citrons, oranges, rubies, and cobalt-blues. But even in a sea of color, one hue in particular manages to dominate, and that is red! Consider yourself forewarned - not just any tone will do. Ruby is the essential color of the season.

Now that we have completed our journey through the headline-grabbing trends for the season, you can start surfing the web for more details. Or, run to your favorite stores to check out the new arrivals in person. To get these brands and looks in Istanbul you can visit Beymen, Harvey Nichols, Brandroom, Blender and at Istinye Park at Gucci, Burberry, Michael Kors, Miu Miu and Prada. Enjoy!

Two new stores have opened up in Istanbul to cater to the fashion forward kids. Both originating from the fashion capital of the world, the French brands Okaidi-Obaibi and Jacadi are now in Istanbul offering cool and hip outfits for babies, toddlers, and children.

Okaidi-Obaibi (0-to-14 years old)

Okaidi-Obaibi opened up in Forum Istanbul a few days ago, kicking off with the Fall/Winter 2011-2012 collection that is inspired by modern and extrovert kids. The Okaidi collection, available for kids up to the age of 14, includes a range of items, such as jeans, printed tops, and much more—all with playful designs. For newborns and toddlers up to the age of 5, Obaidi offers comfy clothes as well as furniture.

Jacadi (0-to-12 years old)

The 35-year-old French brand, available in more than 30 countries in hundreds of stores, has now become available to Istanbulites in Akmerkez shopping mall in Etiler. The luxury brand is based on classic French style, offering simply chic and romantic outfits for a sophisticated look. Inspired by the 1920s, the Fall/Winter 2011-2012 collection carries elements of the period’s social activities and foremost professions like golfing and aviation. Tweet jackets and pants, knit tops, and jump suits appear to be the collection’s forerunners. In addition to its clothing line, Jacadi also offers a range of fun and functional furniture pieces.

If you’re too lazy to get into the chaos of shopping at the Grand Bazaar, you now have another option for design shopping. Owned by Turkish jewelry designer Özlem Tuna, the Zerre Design Store website sells the designs of Özlem Tuna’s past and present collections. The inventory ranges from rings and bracelets to coffee cups, vases, trays, and bowls. In the future, the website’s inventory will expand to include the products of other Turkish designers as well. Make sure you keep watching this space to get the most up-to-date info.

Related Content

Özlem Tuna’s Kairos Collection; by Yeşim Yemni

Didem Aras' Colorful pieces of Jewelry; by Yeşim Yemni

Top 7 Cool Buys

Many large cities contain ethnic enclaves with stores carrying otherwise hard-to-find specialty foods. New York City, in particular, is famous for its ethnic neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy. Americans in Istanbul, on the other hand, are not concentrated in any one neighborhood, and American products can be found in stores all over the city. In Istanbul, it would seem, Little America is everywhere.

Or is it?

You don’t have to have lived here for long to realize that it’s hard to find certain foods in Turkey. A list of hard-to-obtain items will of course vary from person to person; my own would include Edensoy soymilk, Sabra brand hummus, De Cecco pasta, and Twinings tea. (Twinings can also be found in Istanbul, but chances are your local supermarket or bakkal doesn’t carry it.)

For the benefit of homesick Americans, here is our list of stores that sell food and other imports from the States. Welcome to Little America.

Boff Drugstorein Nişantaşı carries a wide array of cosmetics and other pharmacy products that are hard to find in Turkey, including US brands of shampoo, deodorant, vitamin supplements, and other health products including Tom’s of Maine toothpaste. Weightlifters or martial arts enthusiasts will be glad to know that the store carries Tiger Balm, the ointment that eases aching joints, as well as various lines of protein powders and other workout supplements. Boff also carries foods like Aunt Jemima pancake mix, Country Kitchen and Mrs. Butterworth’s maple syrup, American brands of peanut butter (Jif, Skippy, Peter Pan), Newman’s salad dressing, sugary breakfast cereals (Fruit Loops, Apple Jacks, Frosted Flakes, Cocoa Krispies), and many others.

Santral Şarküteriin Bebek doesn’t just sell American products; the store offers a large selection of French cheeses, wines, olive oils, and other charcuterie staples, plus British brands like Crosse & Blackwell, and German Vollkornbrot. Nonetheless, homesick Americans can find plenty of comfort-food items here, such as cranberry juice, French mustard, Jack Daniels Tennessee Barbecue Sauce, Vermont maple syrup, Oreo cookies, and US brands of popcorn like Popz and Pop Weaver.

Merkez Şarküteriin Levent also carries plenty of American packaged foods, such as Philadelphia cream cheese, Big Red, Juicy Fruit, and Doublemint Gum, Oatabix and Weetabix cereals, various kinds of cereal bars, plus the seemingly innumerable varieties of hard-and soft-baked Pepperidge Farm cookies.

Doğa Şarküteriin nearby Etiler (open 24/7) is very well-stocked with American breakfast cereals, and also sells Duncan Hines cake mix and—for when you grow tired of pilav—Uncle Ben’s long-grain rice (don’t panic if you see it labeled in German; it’s still the same product.) They also sell Ocean Spray cranberry juice in beautiful long-necked glass bottles, Nature valley muesli bars, protein bars, Listerine mouthwash, and many other things. Doğa’s wine cellar is filled with Turkish wines in addition to Napa and other California vintages – don’t let anyone tell you that Americans don’t know anything about wine!

How about pork?

While we are on the subject of charcuterie products, you should know that it is quite possible to buy pork in Istanbul. Good pork bacon, for example, can be obtained from the various branches of Macrocenter throughout the city. However, it would be a pity to pass up the chance to buy bacon from the one surviving pork butcher in the city, Lazari Kozmaoğlu. Kozmaoğlu has been selling pork products from his butcher’s shop in Dolapdere since 1977. His store also offers Italian specialty pork products like mortadella sausage.

And hamburgers?

Ah, the hamburger...the international emblem of American food, for better or for worse. As lamb, not beef, has traditionally been the most common red meat in Turkey, it’s understandable that top-quality hamburgers are not easy to come by. You’ve most likely encountered a rudimentary form of hamburger at your local büfe (snack bar), hastily cooked on a grill and scarcely thicker than a cookie. (I usually need to buy two of them for a filling meal-on-the-run.) For really well done hamburgers (pun intended), I refer you to The Guide’s article on the subject, available here.

What about bagels and donuts?

New Yorkers (or indeed Americans in general) who miss bagels can find them at Tribeca, with branches in many locations including Zincirlikuyu, Akatlar, Yeniköy, Nişantaşı, and Mecidiyeköy. Among its other food selections, the cafe offers 14 different varieties of bagel, with toppings ranging from basic cream cheese, to chicken and guacamole, to philly cheese steak. Alternately, head to Naan, in Reşitpaşa, where you'll be able to find the following varieties of fresh bagels: sesame, millet, poppy-seed, fennel, and cumin.

If you are one of those whose breakfast consists of donuts and coffee, fear not. Krispy Kreme’s globalization efforts have been quite successful: according to its website the famous donut chain has branches in more than a dozen countries in ten different time zones. In Istanbul, Krispy Kreme donuts can be found in Şaşkınbakkal, Cevahir, Capitol, Palladium, Acıbadem, and Ortaköy, among other locations.

Cupcakes

Cupcakes, another sweet treat from the States, have started to become popular in Turkey, and can be found at a variety of locations throughout Istanbul. Although making a good cupcake is by no means as easy as it seems: arriving at the perfect recipe, with the right ingredients, cooking times, and techniques, is something best left to the experts. But don’t worry, we’ve tried it all and chosen the best cupcakes for you.

It would be difficult to lead a normal life in Turkey, among Turks, while only consuming food products from the US. And indeed, with such good food here, why would you want to? Nonetheless, for the inevitable occasions when you miss the tastes you were used to back home, the above list should go a long way toward filling those gaps. Afiyet olsun.

Fashion’s Night Out (FNO) will be held this year in Istanbul on September 15th. Fashion’s Night Out began in 2009 as a global initiative sponsored by Vogue magazine and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) as a means of encouraging consumers to shop and support the fashion industry during tough economic times.

While the first event was just held in New York City, by 2010 it had already spread to 16 countries, with FNO events held in Australia, Brazil, China, London, Paris, Berlin, Greece, India, Milan, Portugal, Russia, Spain, South Korea, Taiwan, and Turkey.

Now, on its third year, FNO has spread to 17 countries. On this one special night, participating stores in Nişantaşı, İstinyePark, and Bağdat Caddesi will be open until midnight. A series of special events are planned, including DJ performances and special discounts. Don’t miss what promises to be a great night of shopping, fashion, and fun.

September is here -- the time when schoolchildren, university students, and adults return from vacation. Whether it means an end to your summer idyll, or a cure for dog-days-of-August boredom, there’s no doubt that September is a busy month for children and adults alike.

You wouldn't want your child to start the year on the wrong foot by showing up on the first day of class without a pen or a notebook. Nor would most adults want to be caught empty-handed when beginning a new job or returning to an old one. Love it or hate it, back-to-school shopping -- or back-to-work shopping -- is a necessary ritual; and, if you do it in proper style, can even be an enjoyable one. Here are some great places to shop for stationery in Istanbul. The list below has been chosen to cater to a wide variety of tastes -- male and female, young and old, serious and less so.

Kağıthane (House of Paper) is devoted to the proposition that stationery should be as eye-catching and entertaining as possible. Here, in this little store in Karaköy, you’ll be able to find all manner of stationery designed by owner Emine Tusavul as well as by her students. Forget about post-its or stacks of block notes with pharmaceutical company logos: Kağıthane's block notes come in a multitude of different designs, from tea-saucer patterns, to weekly to-do lists, to animals like cats, dogs...even fish. Among Kağıthane’s specialties are notebooks that come labeled in sets of three: rock, scissors, and paper (after the popular children’s game) or “Ist,” “An,” and “Bul.” Kağıthane also sells other miscellaneous items like coasters, fans, postcards, and wrapping paper.

One thing Kağıthane is not particularly strong on, however, is writing implements. For these, it would be a good idea to pay a visit to Muji. With branches both in Erenköy on the Anatolian side, and Nişantaşi on the European side, this Japanese store sells several dozen varieties of pens and pencils, from 6-color pens to wooden mechanical pencils to gel pens and colored markers. The store also carries a very good selection of general office supplies like staplers, clipboards, and portfolios. Muji’s beautiful notebooks, with their monochrome colors, are more austere in design than those at Kağıthane and so may appeal to a slightly older crowd. Not that Muji is all work and no play -- you can find several varieties of educationally-themed playing cards there, too.

Like Muji, Karum – with its leather-bound diaries and file-holders, and a wide range of expensive fountain pens – seems targeted towards an older, more professional clientele, Nonetheless, in addition to being a good place for office supplies, Karum sells an essential item for every school-age child: backpacks. With all the books they will be carrying, make sure your children buy a well-padded backpack and use both straps (however uncool it may look.)

The Swedish store Ordning&Reda, in Teşvikiye, has a large assortment of notebooks, which, like Muji’s, are sleekly minimalist in design, though they come in an array of bright colors. The store also sells plenty of accessories – the sorts of things you wouldn’t realize you needed till you saw them – such as pen(cil) cases, keyring tassels, and iPhone holders. Ordning&Reda is a good place to buy school supplies for image-conscious high-school students, whose notebooks / pen cases / tote bags have to be just so.

Paperie, as its name implies, specializes in various kinds of paper, coming in all colors and designs: personalized stationery, envelopes, invitation cards – you name it. The small but well-stocked boutique (also in Teşvikiye) owes its existence to graphic designer Zeynep Sümer Ayverdi, and also sells various other art/stationery supplies such as pastel pens and hole-punchers. If you need to buy all your school/office supplies in one location, Paperie is probably not the place to go: but for beautiful quality stationery with a personal touch, it should definitely be on your itinerary.

The last store on our list, Continuum in Çiftehavuzlar, should also be the last stop on your outing. By shopping there after you’ve bought the things you really need, you hopefully won’t blow your entire budget on such less-than-urgent items as a calculator made to look like a chocolate bar, a pencil sharpener in the shape of a robot, or a scotch-tape-holder that looks like an audiocassette. The word of the day at Continuum is definitely “playful”; but that isn’t to say they don’t have plenty of useful items for sale, including various kinds of creatively designed furniture and houseware. There is even a toy section for those who want to buy their children something to sweeten the bitter pill of their first day at school...

The Provence-based retailer of skincare, body care, hair care, and fragrance products, L'Occitane en Provence is introducing its new lavender series in September. The plain and simple bottle design of the series was inspired by the metallic bottles that were used as storage for essential oils in traditional plant distillation techniques.

The products in the lavender series include: foaming bath, eau de cologne, hand cream, shower gel, body lotion, scented candle, and much more. For fall-ready skin, body, and hair, you know where to go!

No technology becomes obsolete faster than recorded music. Those who have invested a lot of time and money buying audio cassettes (or even CDs) over the past few decades must come to terms with the fact that .mp3 files are now the reigning champion of the music technology world.

Nonetheless, just because a technology is more convenient or more pervasive doesn’t mean it’s superior to its predecessors in every respect. LP purists insist that the sound quality of a 33 or 45 RPM record is richer and warmer than the equalized, homogenized sound of a CD or .mp3. With any luck, LP records, LP fans, and LP stores will be around for the foreseeable future. Where is an Istanbulite to find a good collection of LPs?

Lale Plak(Lale Records) is a good place to start. The store is located in Tünel Square, at the very top of Galip Dede Caddesi, a street sloping down from Tünel to Galata that is known for its music shops. Hakan Atala, the owner of Lale Plak (which has existed for over 50 years), keeps an extensive stock of records in his store including iconic 70s Turkish singers such as Barış Manço or Ajda Pekkan, as well as (Western) classical music, and world music. The records at Lale Plak are all new, not second hand, and signed jazz records are available for purchase.

Those who are out to buy second-hand records, on the other hand, might want to head to Aslıhan Pasajı in Galatasaray in order to visit Mandala Müzik Evi. The passageway, which is also a great place to hunt for second-hand books, will be familiar to fans of the movie Issız Adam as the place where the main character, Alper, first meets his love interest Ada. (She is looking for a second-hand novel, he for a collector’s item LP.) With Mandala’s extensive collection there is a good chance that you, too, will find what you are looking for (musically speaking, that is.) Mandala’s stock, divided more or less equally between 33 and 45 RPM, focuses on 1970s music, both Turkish and foreign.

The Asian side’s answer to Aslıhan Pasajı is of course Akmar Pasajı in downtown Kadıköy, long known to students as a place to buy course books and English-language readers. Zihni Müzik is located on the basement level of the passageway. The store has one of the biggest collections of LPs in Istanbul with around nine thousand records in stock, of which nearly three quarters are second-hand. (Most of the records are 33 RPM, although a considerable stock of 45s is also available.) An updated list of their LPs for sale is available on their website, so before you hop on a ferry to the other side you can check if they have the titles you want. Whatever you do, don’t call them up to ask for the number of a bookseller in Akmar Pasajı – that’s apparently the quickest way to get on their nerves.

Also on the Asian side, in the upscale Moda district, is Vintage Records. The store, barely five years old, has a vast collection of second-hand LPs, and is particularly strong on Turkish pop/rock of the 60s and 70s as well as English-language classic rock. You can also find various kinds of musical equipment (amps, speakers, etc.) for sale here.

Our last stop takes us back to the European side, to Opus 3A in Cihangir. The smallest and newest store on this list (founded last year), Opus 3A’s stock is also new rather than second-hand. Its collection focuses on jazz, as well as legendary Turkish 70s pop icons such as Barış Manço or Ajda Pekkan, with some rock and classical music as well. Most of Opus 3A’s records are 33 RPM. Another record store in Cihangir is Deform Müzik owned by Ozan Maral and Tayfun Aras who are also known as the DJ duo Deform-E. The store's second hand stock is a mixture of all kinds of genres including 50s and 60s soul and funk or rock as well as Turkish and international records.

After visiting all these stores, if you still haven’t found the song or album you want, you can always give up and download it from the Internet...

Updated on 9 March, 2012

Lokum, a new book published by Apa Tasarım, is all about Turkish Delight (known as Lokum in Turkish) and tells you everything you ever wanted to know about these soft and delicate sweets that are synonymous Turkish culture.

Written by Izzeddin Çalışlar, with playful illustrations by Selçuk Demirel and mouthwatering photos by Ahmet Ağaoğlu, in this book Lokum tells its own story, and offers a delicious new perspective on a traditional Turkish sweet. The book also features an introduction by Zeynep Keyman, the proprietor of the Lokum Istanbul boutique in Arnavutköy.

Keyman explains that she felt compelled to write this book so that Lokum flavors would continue to be diversified, developed, updated and enjoyed by a wide audience. From this book you can learn everything from their culinary history and mysterious allure in the West, to detailed explanations on how they are made, and even recipes and suggestions on how you can make your very own batch at home. Just like its namesake, this book is small and sweet and makes for a great gift.

Kağıthane (House of Paper) is a small design shop in Karaköy, located in the Fransız İş Geçidi. An innovative mix of items makes up the inventory, from notebooks and postcards to folding fans and bags—all with a humorous edge. Kağıthane is owned by Emine Tusavul, who is a lecturer at Işık University’s Fine Arts department and the founding partner of an advertising agency. The majority of the pieces at Kağıthane are designed by Tusavul herself but you’ll also find some items created by her students.

Most of the items are made of paper, while some are made of porcelain and ceramic. The unique designs are inspired by Istanbul and Turkish culture—from the Galata Tower and the Bosphorus to the traditional tea cups and old Turkish films.

This small shop, which is joined with Tusavul’s sister's coffee shopBej Kahve, is fun and colorful. And when I say fun, I mean it in the most straightforward way possible—I’ve seen shoppers laugh out loud while browsing through the items.

Everything in the store is designed to fire your imagination, and it was quite difficult to pick a favorite but I’ve managed to create a shortlist. One is a postcard created by one of Tusavul’s students. The postcard, referred to as the People from Istanbul, takes a creative look at the cosmopolitan city of Istanbul, showing the wide range of different personalities inhabiting the city next to one another: the punk kid; the businessman; a fully-veiled, observant Muslim woman; the intellectual; the Louis Vuitton lady; the kabadayı (Turkish tough guy)… You can also get the People from Istanbul design as a bookmark or a gift wrap.

The range of coasters are laugh-out-loud funny: they are made to look like simit (Turkish-style bagel), lahmacun (Turkish-style pizza), kağıt helva (Turkish-style, round wafers—but with a bite off), and lace mantle (just like the ones Turkish grandmothers put over TVs and coffee tables). Nostalgic games of the pre-internet generation also come alive in Kağıthane’s designs like İsim-Şehir and Adam Asmaca (hang-man). Interesting street names and traditional tea-glass designs are materialized in place mats. One of the cutest objects is the fan that is made to look like cotton candy.

It’s quite rare to find Turkish design objects in Istanbul, except for a few places like the IKSV Design Shop, and Tusavul certainly played her part in closing a much needed gap.

To see a full list of their uber-humorous inventory where the modern meets the classic, check out their website. The website greets you with a quotation that says, “you don’t need any of this, but when you see them you’ll want to buy them all.” So head to Kağıthane, have a few laughs, and get yourself (or your loved ones) something to smile about.

Ramadan is not just about religion but also about tradition and getting together with loved ones. Whether or not you are religious, you can enjoy the delicious desserts and sweets that the festive month of Ramadan brings with it.

If you’re feeling colorful and cheery, tryBeyaz Fırın’s macaroons, which are available in a variety of colors and flavors, or go for their fruit-flavored marzipans.

If you’d rather have an all-time favorite, get a box of Divan’s Turkish delight, or go for the Ramadan classic güllaç—a special Turkish dessert that is made of a thin sheet of filo dough, milk, and pomegranate. If you’re already a fan ofthe classic güllaçbut want to take it one step further, taste Özsüt’s güllaç that comes in different flavors like white chocolate, raspberry, and pistachio.

If you’re in fact a devout chocolate fan, then we suggest you try Vakko’s hurmalı chocolate (chocolate covered dates). Baylan also offers chocolates filled with cherry, nuts, and truffles. If you need to balance out all this sweetness with something salty, get some of Baylan’s chicken or zucchini mille-feuille with chester cheese.

Bally, a brand famous for its immaculately sewn leather goods, has now opened a second store in Nişantaşı's most noteworthy street: Abdi İpekçi.

Having opened its doors on the 1^st of August, the store features the 2011 Fall Men's and Women's Collection of shoes, bags, and accessories that are characterized by Bally’s posh style as usual.

The store is built in the same architectural taste and sophisticated grace as other Bally boutiques around the world. The timeless elegance of Bally's leather goods and especially the contemporary edge in its exclusive accessories are complemented with the new store's broad windowslooking on to the chic Abdi İpekçi Street. The large white couches inside the fashionable store promise the customers a sense of lounge-like retreat while contemplating whether to match their shoes with their bags or not. No matter how distressing this choice may be, you will feel a satisfying shopping experience once you leave the store, so be sure to visit this brand new Bally store.

What we’ve tried and loved:

Çikolata Kasesi (Chocolate with sour cherry and cherry liqueur)

Kaşıkta Tarama (Salted roe of fish)

Ispanaklı börekitas (Pastry filled with spinach)

Zeytinyağlı Sarma (Stuffed grape leaves)

If you run for the nearest exit when you hear the word cooking, you need to give a call toVanesserie. Open since May 2011, this caterer creates and serves menus for a variety of events, from garden parties and birthdays to office openings and get-togethers at home. Their desserts are so good that they even supply desserts to select restaurants and cafes. That’s no wonder when three talented ladies cook up great food using the highest quality ingredients (like vanilla from France and chocolate from Belgium) minus additives and preservatives.

Who are they?

All food-lovers, three women are cooking the goodies at Vanesserie. İren Karkaşon has been offering catering services from her own kitchen since 2000; Meral Onur is a semi-professional cook who has taken several courses on French cuisine; and Vanessa Menase is a graduate of the prestigious Le Cordon Blue where she studied both pastry and cuisine.

What’s cooking?

Their menu is made up of dishes from the international cuisine—you’ll find examples of French, Turkish, Italian, and even Japanese food. Their desserts, which fall under Vanessa’s specialty, are a blend of Turkish and French desserts. They work with professional chefs on a freelance basis for specific delicacies, such as sushi. When you visit http://www.vanesserie.com/, you can check out their extensive menu that ranges from finger food and salads to meat dishes and cakes. Although the menu offers a lot to choose from, you can let your imagination run wild and order something that’s not on the menu. If they can cook it, they will do it for you.

Events and Special Occasions

At the moment, they can cater for events of up to 150-200 people with a finger food/cocktail menu and 80-100 people with a sit-down meal menu. Although Vanesserie is a catering company, they offer a lot more than just food. Through their partner companies, they offer organizational services, such as DJs, waiters, bartenders, flower arrangements, decorative items, and utensils.

If you’re lazy to cook

You don’t have to host an event just to savor the delicious food of Vanesserie. Young professionals, single moms, supermoms, and simply anyone who doesn’t have the time, energy, ability, or desire to cook up a dinner can order from Vanesserie. Either order a portion of a few dishes and have your weekly dinner menu ready or order their frozen products, such as meatballs, and keep them as back-up meals in your fridge.

Holidays

For your next holiday dinner—be it Christmas, Passover, or Ramadan—you can order a special holiday meal. During each holiday season, they create a special holiday menu but they can also cater to whatever your heart desires.

Special Diets

Although they’re not officially approved by the Chief Rabbinate of Turkey, they do cook with kosher ingredients and can offer kosher meals. They have desserts specifically designed for diabetic patients, and they don’t include aspartame. For those counting their calorie intake, they offer a range of diet dishes including desserts.

How and when to order

For events of 50 or more people, order at least 5 days in advance. For events of up to 20 people, you can place your order the day before your event. For small orders, such as a cake, you can place your order in the morning and get your food delivered by the evening.

What the future holds

Come September, they will be hosting cooking classes and wine & food tasting sessions. These will be hosted by wine experts, chefs, and the lovely Vanesserie ladies.

You can support the work of Nahıl and KEDV not only by shopping here (they also take special orders), but also by making clothing donations to their Beyoğlu store. Contact Şule Alpaslan at 0212 251 90 85 for more information.

Ethical consumerism, or socially responsible shopping, is a major trend that has emerged inrecent years as consumers have become more aware of the ethical implications of their purchasing habits. Along with this awareness, there has been a growing demand for products that support economic development rather than the exploitation of underpaid workers. Nahıl Dükkan in Beyoğlu is one of the shopping options that has emerged from this shift: a place where you can buy all sorts of great gifts while also supporting a good cause.

Established in 2003 by Kadın Emeğini Değerlendirme Vakfı (KEDV), a non-profit organization, Nahıl Dükkan is just one of their many projects around Turkey that supports women. The word Nahıl means to help each other, and is also the name of a tree which symbolizes bereket, a Turkish word that translates loosely as bountiful blessings. KEDV’s goal was to establish a platform from which women throughout Turkey could sell their handicrafts, empowering them economically.

KEDV’s goal is to help women make tangible economic contributions to their households, thus gaining a better position in the family and also in society. With this in mind, they established a number of workshops and cooperatives throughout the country, with a focus on low-income areas that have limited economic opportunities. The profits from these projects are then used to provide children’s education materials and to open new children’s nurseries and handicraft workshops in economically under-developed areas. Importantly, they are also used to support social entrepreneurship, allowing women to start their own economic initiatives or expand existing projects.

While many such projects exist both in Turkey and throughout the world, one thing that sets Nahıl apart is the importance they place on the designs of their products. Nahıl’s designs are a mix of modern and traditional, with all items handmade and hand-loomed. Their products include home textiles, jewelry, accessories, handbags, natural soaps, bathroom accessories, lavender sachets, and organic children’s toys. The store also carries a range of vintage and second-hand clothing.

Wanting their products to be as natural and organic as possible, they often use root dyes in their production, with earth tones and pastel colors dominating. Their soaps are made in the eastern city of Mardin from olive oil, and only use natural scents. In this way, Nahıl’s products also fit in with another important consumer trend: the demand for products that are natural and organic, particularly when it comes to items such as children’s toys. In recent years, Nahıl has also been broadening their product range to accommodate a growing demand.

Nahıl’s products can be purchased wholesale, and are now sold in stores throughout Turkey in towns such as Alaçatı, Kaş, Bodrum, and others. Recently, a number of major corporations have also started to work with Nahıl as part of their corporate social responsibility projects, including Sabanci, Marks & Spencer, and Carrefour.

Nahıl is especially great for those who are traveling abroad and want to take original Turkish handcrafted gifts to their friends back home. In this store, you can find a whole range of Turkish “must-buys”, including peştemal, hamam accessories, hand-embroidered scarves, travel bags, and more, all at very reasonable prices. Socially responsible shoppers can not only buy stylish and organic gifts, but also support a good cause at the same time. What more could an ethically conscious consumer ask for?

Something about the wedding rush suggests that even the most careful planning won’t ensure a quiet and flawless pre-wedding period. All a bride-to-be can hope for is convenience, cooperation, and a bit of luck. Vakko’s new Wedding House in Suadiye the perfect answer for a major part of the rush—the dress! The eager staff members are just as excited as you are for your special day, and will be there to help you select a dress, accessories, shoes, and just about every imaginable detail. Whether you’re content with a creation by a master designer or want an entirely custom piece, Vakko’s Wedding House offers a variety of options.

Boasting custom pieces from designers like Vera Wang, Valentino, Elie Saab, and Oscar De Le Renta, Vakko is completely open to alterations and fittings on venue. With sixteen fitting rooms and a VIP fitting room, make your dress selection an event in itself with close friends and family! Of course the day isn’t just for the ladies—it takes two to pull off the ceremony! With an expansive collection of tuxedos and men’s formalwear, Vakko caters to the other side of the aisle just as well, tailoring pre-made and custom suits to fit any groom’s needs. Providing beautiful cocktail and evening gowns, it seems like Vakko’s Wedding House in Suadiye just earned its spot on anyone’s pre-party list!

The glory of bygone eras came back into our lives with countless TV shows and films. Now, we get a chance to feel a part of such an era with Dilek Hanif’s Fall/Winter 2011 Haute Couture collection. Inspired by the Ottoman era, Hanif takes the motifs and style of those years and applies it for the modern-day women in this collection.

The clothes in the collection stay true to the tradition of gold embossed buttons, stitching, and lace work that not only gives the pieces a look of incredible individuality but also puts into perspective just how much effort went into the outfits. Appealing to the current-day fashionista, there is no lack of feminine charm to the gowns and creations that comprise this collection, which carries a modern edge with its tight form-fitting gowns and dresses along with generously dipped necklines. A signature aspect of many of the gowns is the butterfly sleeves and drapes that were a trademark of Ottoman dresses.

To take your pick from the black, red, blue, and purple dresses, head to Maçka Cad. Ralli Apt. 37/2 Teşvikiye, or call (0212) 219 37 23 for more info.

Istanbul jewelry designer Özlem Tuna has introduced a new line inspired by Kairos, the Greek god or spirit of opportunity who was Zeus’s youngest son. The collection, designed in Tuna’s trademark minimalist and playful style, includes necklaces, earrings, brooches, and a variety of porcelain dishes.

The jewelry pieces are produced using 24-karat gold, pearls, and diamonds, while the porcelain dishes are decorated with mythological images of the god Kairos.

The Nurosmaniye store not only carries a very wide range of Armaggan’s beautifully crafted designs, but also houses the YESAM Culinary Arts Center, which is dedicated to preserving Turkey’s culinary heritage. In addition, the store features a shop and restaurant run by NAR Gourmet, which takes a fresh approach to Anatolian cuisine. There is also the Armaggan Art Gallery, which is run with support from the Turkish Cultural Foundation, and helps promote promising Turkish artists. Truly a one-of-a-kind store, and located just steps away from the Grand Bazaar, this is a must-visit when shopping in the area.

Want to revamp your abode or boat without spending a fortune? Then cushions are the way to go.

Yastık by Rıfat Özbekhas twolimited edition collectionsthat will update the look of your dwelling of choice and liven up your mood.

The first collection brings springtime motifs to a truly unique dimension, featuring brightly-colored pieces in a novel lavender scent. Yes, you’ve heard it right. Lavender-scented cushions! And they come with down fillings too. Aside from symbolic floral prints, the pieces boast bold reds, oranges, and navy blues that bring extra warmth to any summer venue—be it your home or office.

The second limited edition collection is created specifically to liven up the interior of yachts. But don’t worry if you don’t have a yacht, you can add a maritime feel to your house with these blue and white dominated cushions. Boasting handcrafted pieces made with quality fabrics from Asia, these cushions attract the eye with simple white backgrounds topped with flowing designs.

For a comfortable feel and a sophisticated look, get your silky smooth cushions from Rıfat Özbek.

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Big names in retail are having a big week. Brand magnet IstinyePark now houses two more brands: Michael Kors and Chanel.

New to the scene is the American luxury goods brand Michael Kors, which opened its first branch in Istanbul in the upscale IstinyePark shopping mall. The store carries the Collection, MICHAEL Michael Kors, and KORS Michael Kors lines, as well as handbags, shoes, small leather accessories, sunglasses, and watches. A second Michael Kors store will be opening at the end of June in the Nişantaşı neighborhood.

The revolutionary glamour-gal Chanel launches its third store in Istanbul, also in IstinyePark. Designed by the famous NY architect Peter Marino, the store is decorated in black and white, and goes for the classic Chanel look with its beige marble floors, tweed armchairs, sleek black walls, black leather shelves, and a wide-screen plasma TV looping their latest runway-show footages. At the elegant store, you’ll find the ready-to-wear collection, bags, shoes, accessories, and watches as well as Karl Lagerfield’s Métiers d’Art collection, which was inspired by the Byzantine Empire.

Istanbul Cupcake Factory

The story begins sometime in 2009 as a mother and son project. For nearly six months, countless variations of cupcake recipes were tried in a small kitchen in an effort to get it just right. The process not only resulted in the building manager gaining a lot of weight but also some of the most moist and tasty cupcakes in Istanbul. Made daily with high-quality, fresh ingredients and homemade buttermilk, Istanbul Cupcake Factory's cupcakes come in regular and small sizes. For now, they have six varieties on offer, but they are always working to create new flavors. Our favorite one was The Classic, made with vanilla cake and vanilla frosting. It was spongy without being too moist and it didn’t have a dry crumbliness. Miss Lemon, made with lemon filling and lemon frosting, is one of their most popular ones. Surely worth a try. Or two.

While the cakes were absolute perfection, handcrafted with the finest ingredients (such as real carrot and walnut), the frostings erred on the side of too creamy. Not a sugar bomb to send the kids on a sugar high, but just the right amount of sweetness to make us go for another bite.

The Logistics: They haven’t opened up shop yet but they do deliveries with a minimum order of 25 TL. Aim to order 4 days in advance. The price of a cupcake is approximately 4 TL. For more details, check out their website or call(0212) 263 29 27.

Istanbul Cupcakery

Cupcakes just got interesting with Istanbul Cupcakery’s creative, high-quality, flavorful cupcakes. Recently opened in June 2011, the founder and chef has been playing with recipes for over two years. Istanbul Cupcakery’s cupcakes are made with natural and fresh ingredients (including fresh bananas, the finest chocolate and cocoa, and vanilla beans). Topped with either Swiss meringue butter cream or cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are a sophisticated take on classic US-style cupcakes.

Istanbul Cupcakery offers a very innovative range of cupcake flavors, from Vanilla Blackberry Lime and Chocolate Strawberry to Cookies & Cream and Chocolate Coconut Caramel. Some of them, such as the Snickers cupcake, didn’t have the most moist cake and some of the frostings were slightly too soft and airy. But most of them passed our test. Our favorite was the Banana Mocha, made with real bananas, chocolate, and cream cheese. First the flavors of the banana takes over your mouth and, just as you’re enjoying it, the chocolate and cream cheese flavors rush in, creating a taste sensation in your mouth. We also suggest Vanilla Honey and Chocolate Orange. But feel free to go nuts! How about cupcakes with Nutella?

The Logistics: The price of a cupcake is 6TL and the minimum order is for 6 cupcakes. Aim to place your order 2-4 days in advance. You can either pick up your order in Kalamış or Ataşehir. Don’t take this place off your list simply because they don’t offer delivery services. It’s not convenient, but, trust me, it will be worth the trip. Actually, I can pretty much guarantee that you’ll go back for more! For more info and to place an order, click hereor call(0533) 230 47 02.

Merve’s Cupcakes

Made with natural and fresh ingredients, Merve's Cupcakes feature moist and flavorful bases ranging from vanilla and chocolate to walnut and lemon. The frostings are made with butter cream, Swiss meringue butter cream, chocolate, or cream cheese.

Of the cupcake selections we had, the Red Velvet cupcake was a pleasant surprise (as we didn’t find it anywhere else). It was made with Swiss meringue butter cream, but we definitely prefer the original cream cheese frosting. To be fair, the owner and chef Merve told us that she also makes the Red Velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting, but that the Turkish audience prefers it with Swiss meringue butter cream. Overall, Merve’s cupcakes were cute, colorful, tasty, although some of the frostings were a bit too creamy.

The Logistics: You need to place your order at least three days in advance. You can do so either by email (info@mervescupcakes.com) or by phone (0212 238 32 03). The cupcakes come in three sizes (mini, standard, large) and the prices are between 1.50TL and 5 TL. Although Merve’s Cupcakes mostly works with event organizers, they also cater to the needs of individual cupcake lovers. You would need to pick up your cupcakes from Taksim (they don’t deliver for small orders), but just call them to check for specific prices and pick-up/delivery options. They’re growing into a larger work space in Taksim soon. It won’t function as a full-on cupcake shop but you’ll be able to stop by and purchase cupcakes. Watch this space to learn about their upcoming location.For more info, check out their websiteor call(0212) 238 32 03.

Rococo

Possibly the toughest part of a cupcake is getting the frosting just right. This is where Rococo distinguishes itself having got it just right! Fluffy and smooth, the texture of the frostings is pure heaven. It’s best for those with a sweet tooth. Although some of the cakes were a bit dry, the frostings made up for what the cakes lacked.

Rococo has a range of flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, lemon, and raspberry. The chocolate-flavored frosting with the chocolate cake base was the best of all—a mighty chocolatey cupcake that will satisfy all your cravings. Hats off to the presentation and aesthetics.

The Logistics: Although Rococo doesn’t offer delivery services, their location in Bebek is central enough to make pick-up less of a hassle and more of a fun day out. The prices range from 7-12TL. For more information, check out their websiteor call (0212) 263 93 19.

Yummy Cupcakes

Founded in 2004 in California, Yummy Cupcakes quickly expanded, opening their first international branch in Istanbul on the city’s Asian side. Now you don’t have to trek to Caddebostan to enjoy these authentic American cupcakes, with Yummy Cupcakes having opened a stand at the Macrocenter supermarket in Kanyon shopping center.

While there is a wide variety on offer, the real crowd pleaser was the red velvet cupcake, which you can get with cream cheese frosting or black and white style (half cream cheese, half chocolate). The red velvet as well as the vanilla with pink frosting were both classic cupcakes, with just the right consistency in the cake, spongy and not too dry, and the icing, fluffy and not too heavy. While the bitter chocolate was rich and delicious, the icing was quite thick and dense, more like a ganache than frosting. Meanwhile, the coffee flavor missed the mark, not with the cake, but with its icing, which was too sweet and lacking in flavor. We would also recommend passing on the cupcake balls. Nevertheless, with their range of flavors and excellent consistency, Yummy Cupcakes is a winner, particularly the frosting, which was decadent without verging on cloying.

The Logistics: At 8.5TL these cupcakes are a splurge, but worth it for those times when nothing but the real thing will do. Or you can economize and pick up 4 for the price of 3. Available at the Caddebostan branch and Macro Center Kanyon – go earlier in the day to choose from the best variety. For more details, check out their websiteor call (0216) 357 12 92.

This article was updated on May 3, 2012.

But it’s not just the old that hit the shelves this season. In addition to the rebirth of the past eras came a new wave of bohemian multiculturalism spurting with hyper prints, colorful patterns, and mystical Eastern aesthetics.

No need to get overwhelmed with all the different styles and trends blending with each other. Here are the top looks of the season, with tips on how to make them work. Now, sit back, put on your fashionista glasses, and read on.

Bohemian Grove

Hippie culture is back, minus the soft drugs and the sexual revolution, with high-waisted pants, skirts, and shorts. In line with the hippie ideal of freedom, bohemian-style clothes are ideal for women who love to combine comfort and style. Bangles and flowery headbands anyone?

If you’re not a full-time hippie, you can still embrace the comeback of this extraordinary culture—say on a Sunday barbeque or a weekend-long music festival. Try combining maxi dresses with long necklaces and John Lennon style round sunglasses. Add some movement to your outfits with feathers and fringes on accessories, bags, and shoes.

Color Me Mine

As the Judas tress blossom in Istanbul, the dark elegance of winter fashion gets exchanged for the flourishing colors of summer. But more than any other year, this year’s slogan is “Triumph of the Colors!” And the good news is that you can wear ginger yellow, hot pink, and green tones with complacency. Even if you’re leaning on the conservative side when it comes to fashion, you can embrace the color revelry by adding colorful accessories to your outfits and turn even business clothes into fresh and fun outfits. If you’re brave enough, try contrasting colors, maybe even a red dress with blue heels!

Ballerina Swing

The impact of Black Swan is noticeable on the streets of Istanbul with fluttering skirts and dresses. Powder colored dresses and rose-colored tops have now become essentials in every shopaholic’s wardrobe.

If not for your daily wear, add a bit of ballerina effect to your evening gowns. A silky black, chic pink, or sparkly cream evening gown will definitely work wonders with high-heels. Don’t forget to add a detail of chiffon and feathers!

Lace-winged Angels

French elegancy is still in town—in the form of lace. Seductive textures and semi-transparent pieces create a comfortable yet a lightly erotic style. Even if you used to associate lace with your grandmother’s style, the masterly designed lace clothes and accessories will surely change your mind. For casual wear, pick a white lace top and match it with jeans or navy blue cropped pants. Create an alluring and mysterious effect with a black lace dress—guaranteed to turn heads!

Pattern Splash

Ready to inflame your outfits with patterns? Then pick a striped top or a flowery dress—these certainly are the dominating styles of the season! Patterns can be worn both during the day and at night—pick a cotton piece for a more casual look and a silky one for a more dressed-up feel.

Beach Beauty

Whether you’re going to spend your summer vacation at the classy beach clubs in Bodrum or the casual beaches in Kaş, you’ll want to be up to date with the latest beach style. If you want to show off, go for a two-piece. But also keep in mind that one-piece swimsuits are back, so you might want to get retro-chic with a one-piece this summer.

One of Istanbul’s best Turkish delight shops, Lokum İstanbul has reinvented itself with a new décor and new additions to its product range.

The chic interior features black lacquer cabinets and shelves that give the shop a very old school Italian feel. At the same time, the vaulted ceilings and deep-set lighting is reminiscent of a modern Turkish bath.

Of the new products, the orange flavored Turkish delight is definitely a must-try. One of the most innovative additions is the Turkish delight with colored powder that looks almost like edible chalk. Provided by the chefs at Changa, the chocolates with lavender, rose, and jasmine fillings are also interesting and seriously delicious additions. What looks like a sigara böreği is actually a sweet pastry made with baklava dough and filled with lemon and orange rind—another original creation that tastes heavenly.

It’s not just the inventive and tasty products but also the boxes that are oh-so cute. Available in big and small sizes, the boxes are covered with toile and fringed with pompoms. In fact, all the packaging is high-end, finished with grosgrain ribbons, and are shaped like fez and tambourine.

Lokum İstanbul is not just for foodies though—you’ll find a range of candles and colognes made of Turkish scents, such as linden and rose, which can fill an entire room.

On your next visit to Lokum İstanbul, don’t forget to get some of their all-time favorite sweets—akide şekeri in the shape of tesbih.

Although the store features a very extensive collection of both foreign and local wines, this is not just a wine shop, as it also offers tastings and wine workshops where visitors can broaden their wine knowledge. The Etiler store is run by the very knowledgeable Burçak Desombre, who has received extensive Sommelier training and has won numerous awards. Desombre can talk to you at great length and in great depth about every aspect of wine, be you a novice, or a certified expert on the subject. Although the store is called Onlinemahzen, don’t be fooled by the name, since all sales are now made in the store due to new laws and regulations.

After having established a strong presence in the Turkish market, Yastık by Rıfat Özbek has now opened its first international branch in London. Yastık means cushion in Turkish, and in this store you can find an impressive array of cushions by internationally-acclaimed designer Rıfat Özbek and his partner Erdal Karaman. Like their Turkish stores, the London branch, which is located in the upscale Mayfair area, has bright white walls that highlight the colorful products on display.

Yastık’s cushions are produced in a range of luxurious fabrics, both old and new, with an emphasis on Central Asian ikat silks, Anatolian floral prints, and printed velvet. Özbek travels throughout Turkey and Central Asia collecting the most beautiful fabrics he can find, and then crafts them into original pieces of art, with the front and the back of each cushion in different prints. Smaller, lavender-filled versions of these sumptuous pillows are also available and make for an ideal gift. (Address: 8 Holland Street W8 4LT, London.)

Who is Ajda Pekkan?

Synonymous with the word superstar in Turkey, Ajda Pekkan started off as an actress, later turning to music, leaving five decades of popular hits behind. A source of awe for most us, Ajda Pekkan not only creates timeless songs but is a timeless beauty herself. But it’s not just her ageless beauty or undying songs that have made her an eternal icon. It’s also tea cups. Yes, that’s right, tea cups! The traditional, tall, narrow-waisted tea cups are called Ajda bardağı (Ajda cups). Several stories circulate as to why the cups are dedicated to the superstar yet no one really knows the true story behind.

Everything retro and vintage is in lately. The young and dynamic Turkish retail brand Twist jumped on the wagon as well, creating a limited edition collection with the Turkish singer and style icon Ajda Pekkan.

The limited edition collection called Ajda Pekkan for Twist for the 2011 Spring/Summer Collection was inspired by Ajda Pekkan’s wardrobe, albums, photos, and films, featuring 25 pieces, mostly in black, grey, white, and red. The collection includes flared pants, sparkly tops and jackets, shirts, t-shirts, and more. Some pieces have been adapted from costumes that Ajda Pekkan wore in the 70s during her stage performances, while the more casual pieces have been inspired by Ajda Pekkan’s casual side. A mix of feminine and masculine lines, a blend of the old and the new are apparent in the collection. The red cocktail dress is great for going out and the white shirts offer stylish alternatives for those looking to leave their mark at the office. But our favorite pieces from the collection are definitely the t-shirts that have Ajda Pekkan’s nostalgic photo prints.

Rumor has it that Twist and Ajda Pekkan will collaborate on another limited edition collection in the future, which will include purses, necklaces, and gloves. Watch this space for upcoming news!

For a preview of Ajda Pekkan's then and now, watch:

Mavi Jeans is holding a t-shirt design competition to see who can design the next best-selling Istanbul T-Shirt. Mavi Jeans launched their first Istanbul Collection t-shirts seven years ago, which proved to be an instant hit. Now, Mavi is looking to the upand-coming designers for their next winning design.

Contestants have been uploading their designs onto a special Mavi Jeans website; these designs will then be narrowed down to the top 50 t-shirts. A jury will then pick the winning design, which will be announced at the end of June. The winner will receive a prize of 2,000TL as well as the honor of seeing their design on the coolest Istanbul residents. We are all waiting with baited breath.

Online retailer Trendyol.com has now opened its first ‘offline’ shop at Kanyon Box. An innovative retail concept, the ‘Kanyon Box’ is a container store located in the front of the mall, with a new retailer entering the container periodically. Trendyol will be located in the Kanyon Box until May 22 and will feature items from its new line called ‘Pure’, specially designed for Trendyol by Turkish designer Simay Bülbül.

The collection features dresses, blouses, jumpsuits, and tunics in tones such as rust, ecru, and petrol green, with Bülbül’s signature leather detailing and accessories. But just in case you miss them at Kanyon, Trendyol’s cool designs are available anytime at www.trendyol.com.

The sound of clanking bracelets and a subtle laughter is the essence of Aslı Günşiray who owns one of the best antique shops in Çukurcuma. Thick bracelets, artsy hats, and colorful scarves are the signature of this lovely woman, while rarity, beauty, and variety define her shop, which carries her name.

Having spent most of her childhood and teen years abroad in Europe, Günşiray returned to Istanbul when she was 25. She found her calling on one magical day when she decided to take a trip through Anatolia with a couple of friends, one a famous art expert and antiques dealer. During this trip, Aslı was mesmerized by the beauties of Anatolia, especially the range of architecture that was the legacy of so many cultures and civilizations that once dwelled in this melting pot.

She was so inspired by what she saw in Anatolia that when she returned to Istanbul she decided to open an antique store. Yet, her fascination with antiques was not just due to this trip, it was something that was passed down to her from her family. Aslı’s grandfather, who lived in Paris for 40 years, was a huge fan of antiques and a dedicated antique collector. Her mother, an antique aficionado herself, used to sell antiques from her home office; in fact, she later opened her own antique shop right across from her daughter’s in Çukurcuma.

When Aslı opened her store in 1988, there were only a few antique shops in Çukurcuma—now there are over 50! Her store, simply called Aslı Günşiray, stands out with its gracious and humble appearance. When you enter through the delicately-framed door with grey stones (which came all the way from Belgium), you feel like you are stepping into a magical world where each item has its own unique story. Whatever you find in the store was either handpicked by Aslı during her travels or was purchased from old Istanbul families. It’s as if the secret treasures of cultures that crossed Aslı’s path were filtered by her exquisite taste and placed in her cozy shop in Çukurcuma.

Aslı is inspired by historical movements and modern trends; she enjoys discovering new items from different cultures and helps undervalued designs to surface and find their righteous places. She appreciates the contrasting harmony created by new and old designs. Her main interests are Anatolian art and Ottoman architectural pieces, such as fountains, doors, columns, as well as earthenware jars and ceiling centerpieces. The items in her store range from elegant couches and shimmering chandeliers to Turkish coffee sets, liqueur bottles, vases, Ottoman-style slippers, and hats (mostly with French, Far Eastern, or Ottoman designs).

Right next to her shop is her showroom/office. A very large antique fan behind her desk, literally covering the majority of the wall, greets you as you enter her office: Aslı looks like Madame Butterfly when she sits in front of it. This unique space features a mirror that belonged to her grandfather, an old Ottoman doll, a beige Chinese vase, and a hamam-inspired bathroom (designed like a traditional Turkish bath) that almost makes you want to lock yourself in.

Besides running her antique shop, Aslı also designs homes and commercial spaces. She pays attention to every functional detail and decorates them with oriental and modern accents. She creates unique atmospheres that compliment the architecture of the space and reflects the character of both the space and the client. Her designs are simple, peaceful, fresh, and luminous. Aslı also designs custom-made furniture, such as tables and couches using antique wood and pieces that she has been collecting.

Growing up with her family’s admiration for antiques and of course being gifted with an exceptionally refined taste enable Aslı to have a different perspective of design and aesthetics—these make her and her shop rare treasures.

Top 6 Cheese Shops:

Antre Gourmet

Cankurtaran Gıda

Namlı Gurme

Park Peynir

Taşpınar Çiftliği

Yalı Çifliği

Turkish cuisine may be synonymous with meat-heavy dishes (especially the world-renowned kebabs) but there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Turkish cheese is among those, coming from all corners of the country and offering a variety of tastes for cheese-lovers. This shortlist covers some of the common regional cheeses that you can easily find in Istanbul.

1 - Kars Gravyeri

Unique to the northeastern region of Kars, this type of cheese is best produced between May-August with cow’s milk. Although it looks more like the French gruyere cheese, it tastes more like the Swiss emmental.

2 - Erzincan Tulum Peyniri

Produced in the mountainous areas of Erzincan, Bingöl, Elazığ, Tunceli and Erzurum, this white and creamy cheese has a sharp taste. It can be produced with goat’s, cow’s, sheep’s milk, or a combination of the three.

3 - Beyaz Peynir

The most popular and widely-consumed cheese in Turkey, beyaz peynir (meaning white cheese) is produced with goat’s, sheep’s, or cow’s milk based on the region where it’s produced. This feta-like cheese comes soft, semi-soft, or hard. It has a grainy appearance and its varieties include high, medium, and low fat content.

4 - Dil Peyniri

This chewy cheese has a fibery texture and is usually prepared with cow’s milk. It is soft and low in fat and salt.

5 - Mihaliç Peyniri

Produced in the northwestern cities of Balıkesir and Bursa, this cheese is commonly made with high-fat sheep’s milk. It’s salty, oily, and white, and has round pores on its thick surface.

6 - Çörek Otlu Abaza Peyniri

Prepared with a combination of milk from buffalo-sheep, sheep-cow, or buffalo-cow, it is produced in Adapazarı, Kocaeli, Bolu, Sinop, Bursa, and Çanakkale. It’s a medium-hard, slightly salty cheese, and is available plain or with caraway seeds and other herbs.

7 - Van Otlu Peyniri

Produced in the eastern city of Van during spring with sheep’s milk, this is a pungent cheese that is also called Kelle Peyniri. This very salty cheese is flavored with garlic, special herbs, and spices from Van.

8 - Eski Kaşar

Eski kaşar (meaning aged cheese) is made with sheep’s or cow’s milk (or a combination of the two), and aged in sacks in cold storage for six months. This salty, hard-textured cheese with very tiny holes is mainly produced in the Eastern and Western Anatolian regions. At the grocery store, you can ask for hard, semi-soft, or creamy types of eski kaşar.

9 - Lor Peyniri

Lor is a fresh, soft cheese that is low in salt and has a short shelf life. It’s from the same family as ricotta and the Greek myzithra and anthotiro cheeses.

10 - Köy Peyniri

This kind of cheese is made fresh daily and does not contain much salt. It tastes similar to beyaz peynir, although it is a lighter version. The white-colored cheese is also known as Yörük Peyniri.

11 - Antakya Sürk Peyniri

Produced in the southern region of Antakya, this round, hard cheese is flavored with flaked red peppers, zahter (a paste of spiced thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds, mixed with olive oil), black pepper, and ground nutmeg among others. The spicy cheese is best served with cucumbers and tomatoes.

Most supermarkets carry the classic beyaz peynir and kaşar peynir, which are staples of the Turkish diet, while the regional cheeses are more commonly found at specialty shops and delicatessens. Find an excuse, splurge on some cheese, and have a wine & cheese night with friends.

But it’s not just the new stores and convenient location of Sapphire that’s making us think it’s time for another shopping spree. The concept of the mall is inviting in itself, as it is inspired by Istanbul’s historical fabric and Turkish traditions. The interior of the building features authentic motifs of Istanbul’s architecture (such as the patterns of the Galata Bridge and the Hagia Sophia), İznik tiles, and traditional wooden materials.

Europe’s second tallest building, Sapphire boasts a Viewing Terrace (or Seyir Terası) at 236 meters height that offers a spectacular 360° view of Istanbul, from the Black Sea to the Belgrad Forest, from the Bosphorus to the historical peninsula. Tourists will surely come pouring in, but I’m pretty sure that locals will also want to get a glance of Istanbul from the tallest point in the city.

PS: Don’t forget to grab your camera.

Mania Gurme Teşvikiye updated its wine menu with a range of high-quality international wines. This new menu features the wines that received top ratings from the wine world’s number one magazine “Wine Spectator” and the renowned wine authority Robert Parker (a.k.a. “Wine Advocate”).

The ratings of the wines are listed right next to their names on the menu, making it easier for you to choose the one that best suits your taste. There are more than 220 kinds of wines to choose from, 46 of which can be served by the glass with prices ranging between 13-16 TL per glass.

The wine selection comes both from the Old and the New World, including Italy, France, Spain, Chile, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Argentine, the US, and Turkey.

The notorious Marie Antoinette said, "Let them eat cake" upon learning that the peasants did not even have bread. It’s debatable whether Marie Antoinette really said this, and the devastating famine in France is no laughing matter, but this infamous phrase excites us chocoholics nevertheless.

Probably the phrase also excited Ruken Demirer who founded the Marie Antoinette Chocolatier, a self-identified “haute couture” chocolate boutique where all chocolates are specially designed, organic, and without additives.

Maria Antoinette Chocolatier’s chocolate of the month is Pistachio Truffle, prepared with Belgium chocolate and pure pistachios from Antep. So bow to the queen, and swap your carb intake with delicious pistachio truffles in April.

As you walk up the street from Galata towards Tünel, through the sounds of drums and Turkish pop music, feeling the beat of the restless city, you suddenly hear peaceful music luring you in to one of the sweetest, most sophisticated and intellectual record shops ever. As you step foot into Lale Plak, half mesmerized by the delightful tunes of classical music they’re playing, owner Hakan Atala greets you with a musical smile. At this moment you know you have come to the right place!

Lale Plak is an independently owned record store founded by brothers Ibrahim and Yusuf Atala. It opened in 1954 in the neighborhood of Beyazıt as a stationery store, relocating to Tünel in the 1960s. Soon after this move, Hakan Atala’s son Yusuf took over the shop and made the decision to change the store format from a stationery store that sold some records, into a complete record store. Lale Plak mainly sells classical, jazz, world and ethnic music and you are always guaranteed to find unique and interesting works in the collection. You can also find all sorts of music DVDs, records - which are making a huge comeback these days – and CDs.

Both the owner and the assisting staff greet customers with a warm smile, and love to share their knowledge of music and never get tired, no matter how many questions you might ask. Hakan Atala knows every inch of the store by heart. Besides giving musical guidance and spreading good karma, he is also a member of the advisory board of the International Istanbul Jazz Festival that is organized every year by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts.

Most of his staff has either studied music or plays an instrument. Emre Adıyıl, a jazz fan, studied music independently and plays the guitar. Kadir Büzkan, who gets carried away with ethnic music, plays the drums. Last but not least, Dağhan Ayer, who enjoys funk and classical music, studied at Istanbul University State Conservatory and also plays the drums.

Lale Plak is open Monday-Saturday from 9:00am to 7:30pm and on Sunday from noon to 7:00pm.

Founded by the regal Ms. Engin Demirkol who has been running the shop for over 25 years, Hazal Kilim & Halı specializes in carpets and kilims from Anatolia. Located in the Bosphorous village of Ortaköy and housed in a beautifully-restored Ottoman-era mansion, Hazal Kilim & Halı is the only carpet shop in an area that is best known for its Baroque mosque and baked potatoes. Placing the shop in this area was not a coincidence, but rather, a conscious decision. While Ms. Demirkol’s first shop was in Sultanahmet’s Arasta Bazaar, the aggressive atmosphere of that touristic part of the city didn’t suit her style. She then made the decision to move the shop to Ortaköy to be less focused on tourists and be closer to locals, including the many expats that live in this area.

For most merchants, selling carpets is merely a business and this could go a long way in explaining the poor reputation of the people in this industry. When you hear Ms. Demirkol talk about the various items in her shop, it very quickly becomes clear that for her this is a labor of love. This passion for her business is also reflected in her philosophy of shopping: when buying a carpet, you should always buy a piece that you absolutely love. This way, whatever you buy will always feel like a worthy investment.

When browsing through the shop, the quality of each individual piece really shines through. Along with a wide range of antique carpets and kilims, the shop also carries storage bags, cradles, sumacs, pillows, a very refined selection of carved wooden doors, copper jugs, and other rare works of art. While many people associate kilims and carpets with a more classical style of interior design, a single visit to Hazal Kilim & Halı will remove such false notions. Many of Ms. Demirkol’s carpets are more like pieces of modern art, reminiscent of Rothko paintings with their bold color blocks. These unique works of art would certainly fit into even the most modern and minimalistic interiors.

After having established a strong presence in the carpet industry, Ms. Demirkol has now branched out into other products, using her incredibly rich stock of carpets and textiles to create her own custom-made pieces. In addition to carpets, she also creates one-of- a-kind cushions. These cushions are made from antique fabrics that are interwoven with new materials, which are nothing like the mass-produced cushions you find in most shops. She designs sample items for her clients, and then makes bespoke pieces, based on their tastes and requests.

Many of her new customers come to the shop through word of mouth, and they often share Ms. Demirkol’s love of carpets and textiles. Ms. Demirkol says that one of the things she enjoys most about running her own business is that every day is surprising and different from the one before. Indeed, that is precisely the feeling you get in this shop--that any surprise is possible.Mecidiyeköy Köprüsü Sokak No.9 Ortaköy; P: (0212) 261 72 33

The festival will begin with an opening ceremony on the evening of March18th at the Torium shopping mall. Torium will also host a two-day party that will be held from 7:00pm to 2:00am on the 18th and 19th of March with special shows, DJ performances, and many other surprises.

Throughout the festival, participating shopping malls and stores will remain open until 11:00pm every day, offering discounts of up to 30\\\\% for new season products as well as special campaigns and sales after 8:00pm. On the 18th and 19th of March and every Saturday throughout the duration of the festival, two shopping centers on the Asian and European sides will stay open until 2:00am, giving shopaholics a chance to do some shopping while the rest of the city sleeps.

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Don't miss this sale and order your products online at www.aisha.com.tr

With a sample selection of savory recipes, this is a must-visit site for every cooking enthusiast. Visitors can also explore the contents, communicate with the authors, and buy the book online. Available in three editions, English, French and Turkish, Istanbul Contemporary Cuisine so far has only been put on sale in its home country. Food lovers everywhere else will not want to miss the opportunity to check the book and order it at

http://www.istanbulcontemporarycuisine.com/eng/book/

Having gained attention at Galata Design Week, Bebek Festival and Sun.Day.Sky, Aras’ designs can now be found at Blisskiss, Cashmere in Love and Maybeshop. Following the success of her “Ottomania” collection, she has just launched a new line of jewelry called ‘Your Wish is my Command.’

www.dideminizi.com