Turkish tea hourglass

The Turkish hourglass-shaped tea glass, known as ince belli bardak, is an icon of Turkish tea culture, blending elegant design with centuries-old tradition.

About this subject

Turkish tea, çay, is far more than a beverage in Turkey: it is a social ritual that accompanies daily life from breakfast to late night. Served in small hourglass-shaped transparent glasses called ince belli bardak (literally "thin-waisted glass"), çay is brewed in a double kettle (çaydanlık) and traditionally drunk hot, sweetened with sugar to taste. The glass shape is not arbitrary: the wider top concentrates the aroma, while the narrow waist helps retain heat longer. This design emerged in the early 20th century, replacing porcelain cups, and quickly became the standard in homes, cafés, and bazaars. The production of these glasses is an art, especially in the Paşabahçe region of Istanbul, where factories produce millions of pieces annually. Turkish tea is typically grown in the Black Sea region, especially Rize, and accounts for about 7% of global tea consumption. Çay culture has been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Turkey and is a symbol of hospitality, refusing a glass of tea is considered impolite. In recent decades, the ince belli bardak has also entered contemporary design, reinterpreted by artists and luxury brands, which explains its presence in high-fashion editorials as a reference to timeless elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Turkish tea glass shaped like an hourglass?

The hourglass shape, called ince belli, helps retain heat and concentrate the tea's aroma. The narrow waist insulates the hot liquid, while the wide mouth allows you to enjoy the scent.

How is traditional Turkish tea prepared?

A double kettle (çaydanlık) is used: the bottom pot boils water, the top pot holds loose tea and a little water to make a strong concentrate. The tea is served by mixing the concentrate with hot water to taste.

What is the origin of tea in Turkey?

Tea was introduced in Turkey in the early 20th century, replacing coffee as the national drink due to coffee's high cost. Local production is centered in the Black Sea region, especially Rize.