Rumist Cafe & Kandemir Antique Carpets

Opened with the idea of fusing eastern and western cultures by combining good food and art, Rumist Cafe & Art Bistro offers a relaxing, gallery type space at the centre of Sultanahmet. Situated on a street corner with views of a 15th century Turkish bath and Byzantine-era wall, the cafe is a short stroll from Istanbul's most beautiful historical sites.

Founded by central Anatolian native Ibrahim, Rumist's name was inspired by the 13th century mystic and poet Rumi, whose quotations can be found on the restaurant's walls.

The ground floor is a bustling cafe and restaurant, while the upstairs rooms function as a carpet showroom. Indoor and outdoor seating options are available and there is a special Nargile (Turkish water pipe) corner with comfortable cushions.

Almost everything in the cafe - from the handmade glass and gourd lamps hanging from its ceiling to the boxed teas and Turkish coffee and carpets - are available for purchase. Rumist specialises in antique Anatolian, Caucasian, Persian and Central Asian carpets, and can repair and restore items. Prices are clearly displayed in Turkish Liras or US dollars, and customers are promised a "hassle free" atmosphere.

All of Rumist's baked dishes are cooked in a traditional wood burning brick oven, giving them a unique flavour. The restaurant is open from breakfast onwards, offering soups, salads, traditional appetizers and pasta as well as its famous kebabs, pizzas and pides and daily fresh fish. Many of the dishes offer a unique take on the traditional, such as the Beyti Kebab stuffed with creamed eggplant and walnuts.

There is a vitamin bar onsite offering freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices along with hot and cold coffees and other drinks. No alcohol is served.

Reservation enquiries and other queries can be sent directly to Rumist Cafe & Art Bistro with the form below.