In Turkey, tea is not just a drink; it's a means of communication, a symbol of hospitality, and a national pastime. Turks are the largest consumers of tea per capita in the world.

How is Tea Made?

Authentic Turkish tea (çay) is prepared using a special double teapot (çaydanlık). Water is boiled in the lower part, while the upper part contains a strong tea concentrate (dem). The server pours a small amount of the concentrate into a glass and dilutes it with hot water according to your preference – either strong (koyu) or weak (açık).

The Rules of Tea Culture

• Tea is offered anytime, anywhere – in shops, at the barber, at work.
• It's a sign of friendship. Refusing an offer of tea is considered impolite unless you are in a great hurry.
• Tea is always served with sugar cubes, but never with milk!