We stumbled into this shop because they had a nice cat inside and there was no aggressive bulky outside insisting we go in. Two parts, we got a smaller Turkish mosaic lamp that may or may not make it back packed in bubble wrap and clothes, and a little rug for one of our cats, and a pillow case for our cat sitter, and a scarf for a Philosopher friend. In the ceramics part of the shop we got some pretty bowls which also might not survive the ride in luggage but they did wrap them up well and they are embedded in clothes and yarn. The Chief of Staff is in to knitting and bought yarn in Turkiye, which makes for good packing. None of this was expensive and the attempts to upset weren't overbearing. read more

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This shop is absolutely amazing. Everything is handmade by the owner who is extremely kind, hospitable, and skilled in his craft. I loved that he was open about differences in pricing and reasonings, and showed me how to distinguish quality ceramics from cheaper made ones for future reference in future travels. We spent a long time chit-chatting and I learned a lot more about his craft. The resident kitty is also super cute. I will absolutely be visiting again if I get the chance to return to Istanbul. Thank you for such a beautiful experience! read more

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I have to say the owner of this ceramic store Menderes makes my trip to Istanbul more than perfect. I was attracted by the design and the title of the store when we walked on the street. I myself made ceramic, therefore I want to know what Turkish ceramic is alike. At first, I am honestly not a fan of that colorful decoration since I am so into Japanese wabi-sari simplistic style; however, after staying in the store for half an hour, I cannot stop looking at those amazing works. This is truly the art of colors and cultures. We talked about different ceramic-making processes and techniques and how to stick with our passion for art when we face the problem of making a living. Menderes is like my older brother and my friend. I enjoy every minute talking with him. Also, thanks to him, we visited the small cistern beside the store which is amazing. On the last day of my Istanbul trip, we went back to the store and talked for a long time. I even cried for their sincerity and some other reasons I cannot identify (which happened to me quite often). I just don't want to leave this old city and people I met here. Hope everyone can enjoy the time with Menderes and his brother in their small ceramic world. read more

Had a very pleasant shopping experience at Ruby Ceramics. Menderes was very friendly and hospitable. His demeanor made the shopping experience very comfortable. It felt as though one was visiting an old friend as opposed to the typical shopping experience where one is hassled to buy. Menderes is not only very knowledgeable in his products but he does not pressure the customer in buying. This is because he is honest and knows he is providing high quality products. We ended up purchasing some rugs and ceramic tiles in beautiful frames. We are very pleased with our purchases. If one wants to avoid the hustle and bustle of the Grand Bazaar and get a more intimate and relaxing shopping experience, would highly recommend Ruby Ceramics. read more