When does tea come, and how do you ask for it?

Turkish tea is brewed in a pot that sits on top of a second one; the glass takes the strong brew first, then hot water. That is why the strength can be set for you: saying “koyu” (strong) or “açık” (weak) is enough.

Tea is drunk after the meal rather than with it; alongside food people prefer ayran, şalgam or water. At breakfast, by contrast, tea stays on the table from beginning to end and is usually refilled without limit.

Turkish coffee is a separate ritual from tea: after the meal, in a small cup, with a glass of water beside it. Sugar goes in while it is being cooked, not after — which is why the order is taken as “sade, orta, şekerli” (none, medium, sweet).