Nargiles

Nargiles (also known as hookahs) and the billowy smoke they produce have been an integral part of Istanbul's coffeehouses for centuries. Once associated with older men who would spend their days smoking, sipping strong Turkish coffee, and playing backgammon, the nargile is experiencing renewed popularity among younger Istanbullus. They are often used with a variety of flavored tobaccos, such as apple or strawberry. Because the smoke is filtered through water, it's cool and smooth, though it can make you light-headed if you're not used to it.