Philadelphia is a city full of delicious food options, and one of the most beloved treats is baklava.
This flaky, sweet pastry has roots in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions and has become a staple in Philadelphia's diverse culinary scene.
Baklava is made by layering phyllo dough with a nut filling, often made with pistachios, walnuts, or almonds, and then drenched in syrup or honey.
The result is a dessert that is both crunchy and chewy, with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness.
If you're looking for the best places to enjoy baklava in Philadelphia, you're in luck. There are numerous bakeries and restaurants throughout the city that specialize in this tasty treat.
Whether you're a Philly native or just visiting, you won't want to miss out on these delicious options. So, grab a fork and get ready to indulge in some of the best baklava in the city!
1. Cilantro Mediterranean Cuisine
Cilantro Mediterranean Cuisine is a casual eatery serving up delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Their baklava is a must-try, with pistachios on top and just the right amount of sweetness.
The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is laid-back, making it a great spot for a casual meal. They also offer vegan options for those with dietary restrictions.
If you're in the mood for some authentic Mediterranean food, Cilantro is definitely worth checking out.
2. Alyan's Restaurant
Alyan's Restaurant is a hidden gem for baklava lovers. The dense and not too sweet baklava is a must-try.
The portions are big and the food is fresh and delicious.
The owner personally checks to make sure customers are happy.
The atmosphere is cozy and the service is friendly. Don't miss out on this authentic Mediterranean restaurant.
3. Cafe La Maude
Cafe La Maude is a French-Lebanese brunch spot that serves up delicious food and has a vibrant atmosphere.
The outdoor seating is great and the menu has a wide variety of options, including their signature dish, shawarma.
The real standout, however, is their baklava pancake, which is both huge and delicious.
The service is friendly and attentive, making for a great overall experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and tasty brunch spot.
4. Malooga
Malooga is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves delicious baklava.
The restaurant offers a cozy and comfortable atmosphere for its customers. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing great customer service.
Malooga's baklava is rich and flavorful, making it a must-try for anyone who loves Middle Eastern sweets.
The restaurant also offers a variety of traditional Middle Eastern dishes that are well-prepared and flavorful. Malooga is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a taste of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
5. Paprica Grill
Looking for the best baklava in town that transports you to Istanbul with its flavors and atmosphere, look no further than Paprica Grill.
This hidden gem offers authentic Turkish cuisine served with utmost hospitality. The baklava is a must-try and is simply divine.
The restaurant is clean, cozy and reasonably priced. The staff is friendly, attentive and professional. Paprica Grill is a perfect spot for a romantic date or a family dinner.
It's a BYOB restaurant, so don't forget to bring your favorite drink. Visit Paprica Grill to experience a slice of Turkey in the heart of the city.
6. Zorba's Tavern
Zorba's Tavern is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Greek cuisine. The baklava is a standout, but the menu offers so much more.
The meat portions are generous, and the hummus and appetizer platter are delicious.
The restaurant is cozy and inviting, with attentive and friendly waitstaff. The salmon salad and gyro sandwich are also highly recommended.
Prices are reasonable, and the restaurant is BYOB. If you're in the mood for Greek food, Zorba's Tavern is definitely worth checking out.
7. Smiley's Cafe
Smiley's Cafe is a small but cozy Mediterranean spot that serves delicious baklava.
This family-owned cafe also offers other Mediterranean favorites like falafel, gyros, and shawarma.
The friendly service and reasonable prices make it a must-visit for anyone in the area.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, be sure to stop by Smiley's Cafe for a taste of their mouth-watering baklava.
8. Merkaz
Merkaz is a hidden gem for baklava lovers. This Israeli restaurant offers a wide range of delicious dishes with complex flavor profiles that leave a lasting impression.
The lamb shawarma platter with hummus and slaw is a must-try, and their hummus foul is on another level.
The breakfast sandwich with yogurt sauce and thyme herb mix is a unique offering that's worth trying. The service is fast, and the staff is knowledgeable and accommodating.
While the prices may be a bit high, the generous portions and quality of the food make it worth it. Don't miss out on this culinary find.
9. Malelani Cafe
Malelani Cafe is a Mediterranean restaurant that serves delicious baklava. The food is always fresh, flavorful, and made with love.
The cafe has a laid back atmosphere with cool music in the background, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a bite to eat.
The staff is friendly and eager to please, and the service is good.
Malelani Cafe is definitely worth a visit if you're in the mood for some tasty baklava.
10. Salam Cafe
Salam Cafe is a hidden gem for baklava lovers. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.
The baklava is perfectly sweet, and the cheese filling adds a unique and delicious twist.
The cafe also offers a variety of Middle Eastern and Ethiopian dishes that are flavorful and satisfying.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick snack or a hearty meal, Salam Cafe is definitely worth a visit.
11. NAYA – Market St
NAYA – Market St is a contemporary Lebanese counter-serve that offers delicious baklava.
This modern spot has a variety of Mediterranean dishes, but the baklava is a standout.
The flaky layers of phyllo dough and sweet honey syrup make for a perfect dessert. The baklava is made fresh and the quality of the ingredients is evident in every bite.
NAYA – Market St is a great place to satisfy your sweet tooth with their delectable baklava.
12. Falafel Time
If you're looking for a great place to satisfy your baklava cravings, look no further than Falafel Time.
This Mediterranean restaurant offers some of the most delicious and authentic baklava in town. The owner is known for being super friendly and often offers free samples of his delicious dessert.
The food is consistently good, with the shawarma and falafel being particular standouts. The falafel sandwich is a must-try, and the fries with hot sauce are the perfect side.
The small size of the restaurant doesn't stop them from offering a wide variety of appetizers and desserts. Don't miss out on the chance to try some of the best baklava in town at Falafel Time.
13. Al Zaytouna
Al Zaytouna is a small, hole-in-the-wall Mediterranean eatery that serves up some of the best baklava in town.
The flaky layers of phyllo pastry are perfectly balanced with the sweet honey and nutty filling. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and the staff are friendly and welcoming.
It's a great spot to grab a quick dessert or to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you're in the mood for something savory, their mixed kabob platter and chicken shawarma are also worth a try.
Don't miss out on this hidden gem for a delicious taste of the Mediterranean.
14. Isot Turkish Cuisine
Isot Turkish Cuisine is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious baklava.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the food is well-crafted and beautifully made. The menu offers a variety of options, making it perfect for sharing plates.
The mixed grill is a must-try, and the pistachio baklava and Turkish coffee make for a perfect ending to the meal.
The ambiance of the restaurant is authentic and transports you to the Mediterranean. Don't miss out on this BYOB gem!
