Istanbul Gay Bars & Cafés

Café Mor Kedi is a cozy, long-running gay café bar in Istanbul, perfect for those looking for a laid-back and friendly atmosphere. It's a favorite among the local crowd, with a welcoming staff and friendly patrons.

While the prices are a bit higher, they’re more reasonable compared to other gay bars in the city. Just be prepared for a bit of smokiness.

Pinokyo Terrace Club, open since 2011, is a cozy café bar off Istiklal Avenue. It offers live Turkish music, drag shows, and a lively atmosphere, especially at night. Be sure to try the famous turkey sandwich. The friendly staff and diverse music genres, like rock and blues, make it a great spot for weekends. The upper floor offers a fantastic street view, perfect for people-watching. 

Café by day, bar by night, Chianti Pub is a friendly local gay bar that has been in operation since 2006.

Chianti has a laid-back atmosphere but gets busy in the early evening. If you're up for drinking AND singing, there's karaoke, too!

Sahara Bar is a long-standing transgender bar in Istanbul with two floors. It serves Turkish specialties like kebabs, burek, mezes, and salads. The bar attracts a diverse crowd, including drag queens, creating an inclusive and lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot for tasty food, entertainment, and a memorable night out.