Good People of vitruta: Can Çakmakçı

Welcome to Good People, Can! Let’s start with the classic question: Who is Can Çakmakçı? How did it all begin, how is it going, and what are you up to these days?
Hello! Thank you for the warm welcome, and let me say, welcome to taproomx as well! It’s wonderful to be part of this great family and to share ownership of this place in Pera, right from the moment we opened until now. I was born in Ankara in 1983, grew up and studied at METU, then went to Cyprus for my film studies, and finally came to Istanbul. My life in Istanbul has been one of interdisciplinary creativity, with a mix of work in filmmaking, directing, and music, and it still is. Now, here I am, blending my passions and dreams, sharing this space while enjoying our own beer.

Let's start with the story of SOMX then. How did this journey begin?
SOMX began not just as a classic passion for beer, but as a quest for diversity and discovery, and it all started with my first taste of an IPA in the early 2010s. I had no idea what I was getting into, but I was captivated from the first sip, which sent me on a passionate pursuit of beer culture. The more you dig, the deeper you go, touching on one of the world’s oldest beverages. To appreciate the shift from the casual “game-time drink” to an ancient and respected drink took a lot of research, tasting, brewing, traveling, and learning. Then, with everything mapped out, my valuable partner Mehmet Katipzadeler and I joined forces, founding SOMX at the height of the pandemic.

After SOMX came taproomx—two ventures that are like siblings but also come with very different challenges, both of which are tough in their own ways! What inspired you to start taproomx?

It’s truly challenging, but as you know, good things rarely come easily. As you mentioned, both ventures have their own unique challenges. The biggest one for us was to separate the two businesses while keeping them as siblings. On one side, we have our industrial production, crafting beers with a meticulous, almost “nerdy” approach—our big brother, so to speak. On the other side, we have taproomx, which we designed with the same careful attention to detail. Though our approach is similar, each has its own unique language. Our dear “X” helped us bridge this gap, symbolizing that connection in every detail. We dreamed up taproomx as a world where all of our passion and vision behind SOMX could shine, embodying it with every thoughtfully designed detail.

Asmalı Mescit and Jurnal Sokak have a special place in all our hearts. What was it like to open such an amazing space here in 2023, honoring the old days of this neighborhood?

When I first entered our current location, my stomach knotted up. It was like a scene from a post-apocalyptic movie—just a deserted space that matched every detail I remembered. The taproomx area, the street, and the neighborhood all seemed dormant, as if they’d withdrawn to await the return of their former days. While the state of things felt bittersweet, we knew this area was just sleeping, and now everyone can see that Asmalı and its surrounding culture are returning. In 2023, we wanted to be a part of and contribute to the Asmalı, Pera, and Jurnal Sokak cultures we wished to see revived. And the appreciation we receive in return is deeply gratifying—words can’t express how proud we feel.

We can’t talk about taproomx without mentioning the music, which plays a huge role in making it one of my favorite spots lately. How did you curate all the records? Who has spun here so far, and who else would you like to see?

Music is a top priority for us, almost as important as our beer. In crafting the ecosystem here, we steered clear of the typical “beer music” stereotype. Aware of the analog feel and the particular vibe we wanted, we chose only vinyl, a hi-fi system, and an analog mixer. For some, this setup might feel outside their comfort zone, but we loved creating a space where the quality of both the music and the DJs could shine. The records are selected from my personal collection for the store, with additions over time. Mehmet is quickly becoming a vinyl junkie! Our focus isn’t on a specific genre but on mood and simply good music. Memorable names so far include Afreekaya from Analog Africa, Hünkar, Eray Düzgünsoy, Emin, Can Zeydan, Grand Bazaar, Nilgün, Hakan Henri, and Müştak Akgün. We try to host a variety of DJs and also open the decks to exceptional home collectors and vinyl enthusiasts, like Olcay from 700 and Aralık. He played for the first time here, and his set blew my mind! Supporting these talents is one of my main goals. A little bonus for you: we’re recording many of the sets and will soon make them available on a platform for everyone to enjoy.

Imagine four friends visiting Taproom for the first time, ready to try four beers and share four dishes before heading to a film at Atlas. What would you recommend?

Starting with my favorite: IPA paired with Orange Chicken Bun. It’s a perfect match for citrus lovers like me. Then I’d suggest our Smash Cheeseburger with Bohemian Pilsener. The umami and caramel notes of the burger with its sauce and bun complement the crisp Bohemian Pilsener beautifully. For something refreshing, the Asian radish salad pairs perfectly with our Citrus Wheat, bringing together peanut sauce, fresh flavors, and lemony, spicy aromas. Finally, the Harbour Porter with our slow-cooked Pulled Beef Bun is a real treat, with the balanced malt and hops of the porter enhancing the dish’s texture. For dessert, here’s a bonus from me: try our Apple Pie with caramel sauce made from ESB beer—it’s like a festival in your mouth!

You spent time in London, too. I’m actually heading there right after this interview. Any must-visit spots you’d recommend?

Ah, London! Off the top of my head: Brilliant Corners, Crate, and Sexy Fish. And a nearby favorite for you, The Lyric in Soho.

Last question about us :) What are your top three favorite brands at vitruta?

As a vitruta fan, my top three are Carhartt WIP, RAINS, and American Vintage.

Click here to check out the pieces chosen and styled by Melis Güven for Can Çakmakçı in this photoshoot.