CON Coffee – The taste of Northern Cyprus in a cup

A piece of Northern Cyprus in my luggage

Many visitors to Northern Cyprus take CON coffee home with them. The brand is among the island's best-known local products and is popular with both locals and tourists. Alongside typical specialties like halloumi, various sweets, and traditional pastries, CON coffee is a cherished part of Northern Cyprus's culinary identity.

A long tradition in coffee culture

In the early 20th century, numerous coffee houses in Cyprus imported their beans from Arab countries or Istanbul. These were roasted and ground locally. A more modern method was introduced by Hüseyin Remzi Bey in Nicosia: The coffee beans were shipped to Girne, then transported to Nicosia, where they were roasted over wood fires in large barrels. With the increasing prevalence of coffee houses from the 1930s onward, the packaging and sale of ground coffee also began, quickly gaining popularity in Nicosia and the surrounding villages.

Origin of the brand name CON

After the death of Hüseyin Remzi Bey, his successor Mehmet Hüseyin took over the business in 1951. Due to his appearance, he was nicknamed "Con" by those around him, which eventually became the name of the coffee brand and explains its origin.

Today, two independent brands

Over time, different brand structures developed under the name CON in Northern Cyprus. They are often referred to as "Nicosia CON" and "Girne CON". Both brands continue to represent an important part of the local coffee culture and offer a variety of products for consumers.

Special features compared to Mehmet Efendi

While Mehmet Efendi is one of the best-known brands of Turkish coffee in Turkey, CON is often described as milder and with a more pronounced aroma. Although coffee lovers have different preferences, CON is perceived by many as having a distinctive taste.

A popular souvenir

In recent years, packaging featuring images of the port of Girne has become particularly popular. It's not only a practical souvenir for tourists but also a reminder of Northern Cyprus. CON coffee is among the most frequently chosen gift items in local shops, which visitors often take home with them.

Conclusion

When people think of Northern Cyprus, they often associate it with sun, sea and the port of Girne – for some, this also includes enjoying a cup of CON coffee.