Ottoman Coffeehouse
£
Key
- (£) budget friendly
- (££) mid-range
- (£££) high-end eateries
– Vegan friendly.
What’s it all about?
A laid-back neighbourhood spot where drinking speciality coffee feels more like a chilled afternoon in a friend’s living room.
Taste the Place - don’t miss:
The Devil’s Brew – a Turkish coffee combined with an espresso shot. For something more comforting, try the salep with its distinct but mild juniper flavour and classic taste of chai.
What's the inspiration behind Ottoman Coffeehouse?
Mentored and inspired by their late father (a veteran of Glasgow’s hospitality scene), brothers Imran and Irfan wanted to continue his legacy. They took on the mammoth task of renovating the B-listed building once home to The Glasgow Society of Musicians, which was purchased by the family in the 90s. Sadly, major structural restrictions and licenses thwarted these ambitions, leaving the space empty.
Putting the venue to use, Imran and Irfan initially opened the building to the local community once a month, for friends and family to come together to enjoy coffee in return for a small donation. With growing demand, the Akhtar brothers took a leap of faith, leaving their well-paid jobs to fully commit to transforming the space into today’s Ottoman Coffeehouse.
As you enter, prepare to be transported back in time by the grand décor reminiscent of an original European Ottoman Coffeehouse. Serving speciality Turkish (Ibrik) and a variety of filter coffees, the venue prides itself on its relaxed and almost meditative methods of brewing.
If you fancy a light bite, the coffee house offers a small, frequently changing menu, including a Turkish-Indian fusion of grill or burger options with Turkish inspired sides. They work with some of Glasgow’s best chefs, so it’s best to check the menu and availability before your visit. When it’s gone, it’s gone!
Offer from this venue
The Saint Mungo
£8.00
Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavour of premium unfiltered Geisha coffee, brewed to perfection in a traditional Ibrik for an authentic taste experience. This carefully crafted cup celebrates the best of coffee culture, offering a smooth, bold flavour profile that’s as distinctive as the legendary Glasgow’s Saint Mungo himself.
What role does Ottoman Coffeehouse play in creating a sense of community and belonging?
The Akhtar brothers pride themselves on running a community-minded business model, where a portion of their profits go to preparing and cooking nutritious food parcels to distribute to local charities. Ottoman Coffeehouse also offers a pay-it-forward scheme, giving customers the option to buy a coffee for someone who may not have the funds themselves.
Fun fact – did you know?
For a step back in time, the Glasgow Society of Musicians Collection can be found in The Mitchell Library. The collection covers the history of the organisation from 1893-1983.
At-home recipe
This venue has provided a recipe for you to try at home.
Where to find them:
73 Berkeley Street, Glasgow G3 7DX