Fortune and Coffee: A Unique Experience in NYC #

Born in Istanbul and raised in Minnesota, Uluç Ülgen moved to New York in 2012, seeking a bigger life. Years later, he embraced his Turkish heritage by creating the Turkish Coffee Room, a ceremony performed in his East Village living room. The readings are described as “theatrical fortunetelling experiences that blend magic, music, and soothsaying.” Ülgen’s fortune-telling, which began in earnest in 2019, pays homage to his late father who taught him the trade.

Guests gather every weekend to partake in this intimate experience. Ülgen, also known as Dr. Honeybrew, has read over 9,000 coffee cups, providing a unique communal experience. Participants share meaningful moments, often leaving with newfound connections and emotional releases.

Each morning begins with coffee and music, setting a reflective tone for the day. After a brief walk with his dogs, Ülgen explores estate sales, considering the remnants of lives once lived. Preparing the Turkish Coffee Room involves meticulous arrangements, from brewing Turkish coffee in a portable sand pit to stamping napkins with their distinctive logo. Evil eye bracelets, made from Turkish beads, are crafted and gifted to guests.

Ceremonies commence promptly, fostering inner connections among attendees. A slideshow introduces the event, emphasizing its communal and interactive nature. Attendees enjoy Turkish coffee before “flipping” their cups to reveal the rich coffee grounds, akin to a Rorschach test. Symbols are interpreted, each personal reading projected onto a monitor designed like framed art.

Following the ceremonies, guests depart by mid-afternoon, and the living room transforms into a photo studio for Amy’s work. By evening, after a spa relaxation session, Ülgen delves into recording brief, personalized fortune readings for clients. The day concludes with a quiet movie night, preserving energy amid New York’s hustle and bustle.