Hafız Mustafa 1864: Where Centuries of Sweetness Meet Modern Luxury
Steeped in history and bursting with flavor, Hafiz Mustafa 1864 is not just a patisserie – it’s a living symbol of Turkish tradition and craftsmanship. Founded more than 160 years ago in Istanbul, the brand has become an international ambassador of authentic Turkish desserts, blending time-honored recipes with contemporary elegance and global appeal.
A Heritage of Sweet Perfection
When Hafız Mustafa first opened its doors in 1864 in Bahçekapı, Istanbul, it did so under the skilled hands of Hadji İsmail Hakkı Bey – a pioneer in sugar candies whose artistry began in a modest basement using a dibek stone. Over the decades, this small confectionery grew into a national treasure, as the founder’s son (Hafız Mustafa himself) carried forward both the craft and the values: artisanal sweets made with care, tradition woven into each recipe, and an unyielding respect for quality.
The brand navigated through eras – Ottoman, Republican, modern Turkey – always preserving its identity. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hafız Mustafa amassed prestige across Europe, earning medals, acclaim, and a lasting reputation. And though the world changed, the essence of its kitchen – the flavors, the heritage, the dedication – remained anchored in its Bahçekapı roots.
The New Chapter: Emre & Eren Ongurlar
In 2007 the Ongurlar family, led by Avni Ongurlar, became the stewards of this century-old legacy. Among them, twin brothers Emre and Eren Ongurlar have taken center stage, bringing both reverence for tradition and a bold vision for growth.
Neither originally from a sweets-business background, they learned the trade by diving into the archives – restoring historic recipes, studying Ottoman confectionery techniques, and adapting ancient methods to today’s standards. Emre, often speaking as the public face of the brand, represents its craftsmanship and authenticity; Eren leads operations and expansion, ensuring that each new store matches the quality, taste, and atmosphere of the original.
Together, they have transformed Hafız Mustafa from local legend to international cultural ambassador – opening flagship locations in Dubai and London, building production facilities abroad, and introducing new dessert creations inspired by both heritage and innovation.
A Symphony of Taste
The charm of Hafiz Mustafa lies not only in its flavors but in its presentation. Behind glass counters glisten trays of freshly baked baklava, soft lokum in rose, lemon, and pomegranate, and elegant cakes and puddings ready to be paired with strong Turkish coffee. Each store feels like a step back in time – ornate interiors, gilded displays, and a welcoming aroma that lures visitors in from the street.
From Istanbul to the World
While Istanbul remains its beating heart, Hafiz Mustafa has flourished far beyond the Bosphorus. Today, the brand operates around sixteen branches across Turkey, many of them in Istanbul’s most beloved neighborhoods. In recent years, Hafiz Mustafa has expanded to the United Arab Emirates, where four locations – including the flagship in The Dubai Mall – invite guests to savor a true taste of Turkish tradition in a luxurious setting.
Across the continent, Hafiz Mustafa has also made its mark in London, opening its first store in the elegant district of Knightsbridge, directly across from Harrods. The London branch features a dedicated production facility to ensure that every dessert retains its authentic freshness and flavor – a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality, even as it grows abroad.
The Sweet Future of an Icon
With more than twenty stores now open worldwide, Hafiz Mustafa’s ambitions are only beginning. The company has announced plans to launch over forty new branches globally by the end of 2025, including further expansion in London with new openings in Paris and New York on the targeted list. To support this growth, Hafiz Mustafa is investing in state-of-the-art production facilities in both Istanbul and London, ensuring the same artisanal standards are maintained wherever its sweets are enjoyed.
A Taste Worth Sharing
Hafiz Mustafa has also perfected the art of gifting. Its beautifully designed boxes – from elegant red tins to intricate wooden and crystal cases – transform desserts into treasured keepsakes. Each package carries the brand’s signature blend of luxury and authenticity, making it a thoughtful gift or a souvenir that captures the spirit of Turkish hospitality.
More Than Dessert
To visit Hafiz Mustafa is to experience more than a meal – it’s a journey through time, taste, and tradition. Whether in the historic heart of Istanbul or overlooking the fountains of Dubai, every detail, from the aroma of freshly baked baklava to the first sip of Turkish coffee, reflects the same devotion that began in 1864.
For lovers of heritage, craftsmanship, and the sweeter things in life, Hafiz Mustafa 1864 is not simply a patisserie – it’s a celebration of culture, artistry, and the timeless pleasure of indulgence.
