GENÇ ERKEK KUAFÖRÜ: My Favorite Barber in Istanbul… with a Sweet Surprise

Kadir Admin
May 21
2 min read

Barber in Istanbul ...

Whenever I need a break, a moment to take care of myself, there's one place in Istanbul I always return to: GENÇ ERKEK KUAFÖRÜ, in the Çapa neighborhood.

You’ll often find me there, comfortably seated in the barber’s chair, while Enver Bey calmly and precisely tends to my hair with the skill of a true craftsman. It’s more than just a haircut. It’s a ritual.

🧔 The Turkish Barber: A Living Tradition

In Turkey, the men’s barber (berber or kuaför) is more than just a grooming service — it's a social institution. Dating back to the Ottoman era, the barber was — and still is — a key figure in the neighborhood, almost like a trusted confidant.

A visit to a Turkish barber is a full experience: a meticulous haircut, straight razor shave, hot towel treatment, ear flame for hair removal, and a refreshing splash of cologne to finish. Each gesture is part of a living heritage passed down through generations.

📍 A Neighborhood Salon Full of Character

GENÇ ERKEK KUAFÖRÜ is located just off the lively Millet Caddesi. It has that vintage, cozy atmosphere I love, with antique décor, nostalgic movie posters, and well-worn barber chairs that invite you to relax.

📌 Address:Millet Cad. Necip Asım Sk. No:1/B

ÇAPA / ISTANBUL

📞 Phone: 0212 589 36 29

📱 Mobile: 0546 556 68 51 – Enver GENÇ

🍰 A Sweet Touch: “Pastana by Emine Genç”

And just in front of the shop, you’ll find a delightful surprise: a little cake stand called “Pastana by Emine Genç”. Enver Bey’s wife, Emine, bakes beautiful, handmade cakes and desserts.

Brightly decorated and full of flavor, her pastries — from strawberry cakes to syrupy baba desserts — add a touch of sweetness to the whole experience. Whether you’re getting a trim or just passing by, don’t miss the chance to take home a slice of homemade joy.

📸 Step Inside

In the photo below, you’ll spot me mid-session in the chair. Around me: brushes, vintage tools, retro charm, and that unmistakable neighborhood barbershop vibe. This is a place with soul.

💈 Why I’m Sharing This

Because it’s places like these — where craft, care, and community come together — that define the real Istanbul. At GENÇ ERKEK KUAFÖRÜ, you don’t just get a haircut. You step into a story.