Sweet Heritage on Wheels:Hafız Mustafa Brings a Taste of Istanbul to London
By Alpaslan Düven
LONDON, 28 May 2025 — A flavorful journey rolled through the heart of London today as Turkish confectionery legend Hafız Mustafa 1864 launched its first-ever “Sweet Heritage on Wheels” experience aboard an iconic red double-decker bus.
The event, which attracted 10 prominent journalists from leading UK press organizations, offered a unique blend of tradition and modern charm as the historic bus made a one-hour tour past London’s most iconic landmarks.
Guests were treated to an exquisite tasting menu featuring Turkish delights, baklava, and freshly brewed Turkish tea and coffee — a sensory celebration of Ottoman-era desserts brought to the streets of London.
This one-of-a-kind cultural experience departed from the Hafız Mustafa Knightsbridge Store, marking the first time the brand has taken its legacy of flavors to the streets in such an innovative format.
The event was graced by the presence of Eren Ongurlar, co-owner of Hafız Mustafa, along with distinguished guests including Oğuzhan Gönültaş, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in London; Alpaslan Düven, Chairman of the Association of Turkish-British Journalists; and Mehmet Karakaş, Director of the Yunus Emre Institute London.
“We are proud to blend London’s iconic visuals with the rich, timeless taste of Turkish confections,” said Eren Ongurlar. “This event is about more than desserts — it’s a cultural bridge, a celebration of heritage and hospitality.”
The red bus — adorned with the route “London–Istanbul–Dubai” — symbolized Hafız Mustafa’s growing international footprint while paying homage to its deep-rooted history that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. With the success of this London debut, there are already whispers of similar events in other global cities.
As the bus rolled past Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge, the scent of rosewater, cinnamon, and pistachios filled the air — a perfect marriageof London’s charm and Istanbul’s sweetness.
