Turkish Coffee Lady Wins ALXnow Readers’ Choice Poll for Best Coffee Shop in Alexandria

Women-owned business earns 1,484 votes, celebrating a community built around Turkish coffee, culture and connection

ALEXANDRIA, VA, October 20, 2026 — Turkish Coffee Lady has earned first place in ALXnow’s Readers’ Choice poll for Best Coffee Shop in Alexandria, receiving 1,484 of the 3,692 votes cast, approximately 40 percent of the total.

Marking its fifth anniversary at 1001 King Street, Turkish Coffee Lady brings people together through culinary delights, Anatolian flavors and cultural experiences. This recognition celebrates the community members, neighbors and supporters who have embraced the women-owned small business and its mission of bridging cultures through coffee and the arts.

“This achievement belongs to everyone who believed in us,” said Gizem Şalcıgil White, founder of Turkish Coffee Lady. “To our supporters near and far, thank you for every vote, every share and every word of encouragement. You have helped us create a place where a cup of Turkish coffee opens the door to friendship and cultural understanding.”

The recognition marks a milestone in a cultural outreach journey that began in 2009. Through the Turkish Coffee Truck’s international tours and subsequent coffee houses, White has introduced thousands of people to Türkiye’s centuries-old coffee tradition. Turkish Coffee Lady’s Old Town Alexandria location opened in 2021, during the pandemic.

For White, the poll also offers an opportunity to celebrate Alexandria’s independent coffee community.

“We are proud to be part of a city where independent businesses bring so much character and heart to our neighborhoods,” White said. “Congratulations to our fellow coffee shops, and thank you to ALXnow for giving the community a chance to celebrate its local favorites.”

As Turkish Coffee Lady looks ahead, its mission remains rooted in sharing Turkish hospitality, supporting women’s entrepreneurship and carrying a rich cultural heritage to new audiences.

About Turkish Coffee Lady

Turkish Coffee Lady is a women-owned social enterprise dedicated to bridging cultures through Turkish coffee, hospitality and storytelling. Founded by Turkish American entrepreneur Gizem Şalcıgil White, the brand builds on a cultural outreach mission that began in 2009. Through its cultural wellness experiences, Turkish Coffee Lady creates opportunities for human connection and cultural exchange.

Media Contact
Gizem Şalcıgil White
Founder & CEO, Turkish Coffee Lady
hello@turkishcoffeelady.com
www.turkishcoffeelady.com