Cafe Istanbul — Restaurant in New Orleans

Cafe Instanbul is a charming, vibrant, cozy and welcoming venue. Every seat has a great view of the stage. The ambiance is reminiscent of a sophisticated theater. The staff is friendly, courteous and professional. Chuck Perkins is an outstanding host.

The entertainment varies on a nightly basis. We attended an event that featured a soulful jazz singer (TC Carson), comedians and R&B artist. Each entertainer was phenomenal. We made the best choice for Lundi Gras.

Cafe Instanbul represents the best of New Orleans. The mixture of people was a true cross section of the city. It is nice to be in an environment where you can play chess, engage in enlightening conversation, listen to great music or have a cocktail.

We highly recommend Cafe...

We have yet to experience all that this magical place has to offer. On our most recent trip to New Orleans, we came here twice during our ten-day visit. Never got to experience the theater side, as we were only here for Poetry on Poets, an open mic on Monday nights. Hosted by Chuck Perkins, he creates a more intimate space near the bar by closing a curtain and creating a "living room feel".

The weekly event is not limited to poetry. Anyone with anything to share is welcomed and encouraged to grab the mic. Poetry, stories, vocals, instruments...you name it! We both felt inspired by the creativity in the room and super comfortable with the loving and playful energy of the host...

I have performed here and worked here. Very cool place, very cash money. I beat the world famous Chuck at the world famous Cafe Istanbul 9 times in one night in chess - Chuck runs the place.

It's really endearing to see how hard everyone parties too on Saturdays. I just recommend the regular party-hard customers to be on the lookout for whoever I've passed down the tradition of "ice bucket carrying through crowds" If they speed through like a cruise ship missile, it's because they need to keep the drinks cool for everyone. New Orleanians drink a lot after all, testament and review from a New Orleanian.

This is the place to go for fun and their open mics...