Turkish coffee vs espresso — what’s the difference? Both are small, strong and full of flavour. However, they are brewed in completely different ways. Turkish coffee is simmered slowly in a small pot and served unfiltered. Espresso is forced through finely ground coffee under high pressure. In this guide, we explain the difference simply.
Turkish coffee vs espresso: the quick answer
In short, it comes down to how the coffee is brewed. Turkish coffee is simmered gently and poured grounds and all. Espresso is pushed through a machine at high pressure. Meanwhile, Turkish coffee is unfiltered, while espresso is filtered as it brews. So the two feel quite different to drink.
What is Turkish coffee?
Turkish coffee is an age-old brewing tradition. Cooks use very finely ground coffee and cold water in a small pot called a cezve. Then they heat it slowly until a rich foam rises. It is poured, grounds and all, into a tiny cup. So it is thick, aromatic and full of ritual. Discover more in our guide to this coffee tradition.
What is espresso?
Espresso is a modern Italian method. A machine forces hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure. The result is a small, concentrated shot with a golden crema on top. Then it is enjoyed quickly, often as the base for other drinks. So it is bold, smooth and fast to make.
Turkish coffee vs espresso: how they’re made
The brewing sets them apart. Turkish coffee is simmered slowly and never filtered. Espresso is brewed in seconds under pressure and filtered as it pours. Meanwhile, Turkish coffee uses the finest grind of all, while espresso uses a fine but coarser one. So each method creates its own character.
Turkish coffee vs espresso: taste and serving
The experience is quite different. Turkish coffee is thick, rich and lingering, with grounds that settle at the bottom. Espresso is smooth, intense and topped with crema. Meanwhile, Turkish coffee comes with water and a sweet, while espresso is sipped on its own. So one is a slow ritual, the other a quick lift.
Which should you try?
It depends on your mood. For a slow, traditional cup, choose Turkish coffee. For a quick, bold shot, reach for espresso. Better yet, try Turkish coffee for a new experience. So you can taste the difference yourself.
Where to try Turkish coffee in Kuala Lumpur
Fancy a traditional cup? Then try it at Lalezar, a halal Turkish, Mediterranean and Persian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy our rich Turkish coffee, served the traditional way. So explore the full Lalezar menu, or find your nearest branch. We welcome you across three locations: Ampang, USJ Heights and Centrepoint Bandar Utama.
Frequently asked questions
Is Turkish coffee the same as espresso?
No. Turkish coffee is simmered slowly and served unfiltered, while espresso is brewed in seconds under high pressure and filtered.
Which one is stronger?
Both are strong. Espresso is more concentrated per sip, while Turkish coffee feels thick and intense from the fine grounds.
Can you try Turkish coffee at Lalezar?
Yes. We serve traditional Turkish coffee, so you can enjoy this classic the authentic way.