Origin: In the bustling heart of Gaziantep, southeastern Turkey, stands Tahmis Kahvesi, a café with roots stretching back to 1635. Its name—Tahmis—comes from the old Turkish word for the place where coffee beans were crushed and beaten, evoking its deep connection to traditional coffee culture. Over nearly four centuries, this venerable coffeehouse has become synonymous with a very special brew: Menengiç Kahvesi.
Unlike conventional coffee, Menengiç Kahvesi isn’t made from coffee beans. It’s brewed from the roasted, ground fruit of the menengiç—the wild pistachio or terebinth tree (Pistacia terebinthus), native to the rugged landscapes of southeastern Anatolia. The brewing method resembles Turkish coffee: finely ground menengiç fruit is simmered, often with milk, to create a rich, aromatic cup with a creamy texture.
Gaziantep isn’t just the home of menengiç coffee; it’s also a global epicenter for some of the finest pistachios in the world. Pistachios from this region—known locally as Antep fıstığı—have earned an international reputation for their exceptional flavor, aroma, and quality.
This legendary pistachio heritage enhances the cultural backdrop of menengiç coffee and other local foods, making Gaziantep a region where ingredients and traditions reach heights appreciated by connoisseurs across the globe.
One cup tells stories of land, history, and human connection that span centuries.
Health: Beyond its taste, menengiç coffee carries a reputation in Gaziantep as a soothing, nourishing drink. Tthe fruit itself is rich in antioxidants and compounds that traditional communities have associated with wellness—especially during colder months.
Taste: Menengiç coffee delivers a nutty, slightly resinous flavor with smooth depth—quite different from ordinary coffee yet richly satisfying. When brewed with milk, its texture becomes even more luscious and comforting.
Because it’s made from menengiç fruit—not coffee beans—this brew contains no caffeine, making it suitable for anyone seeking a relaxing beverage without stimulating effects.
