There's a reason this place almost has a perfect score!!! If you've never passed this place, or have passed and thought...I need to stop there one day, YOU MUST GO!!!! They have an impressive selection of delights, check out their menu and pay them a visit. TRUST ME, you've not had the level of expertise this place has. Owner is friendly and welcoming. Honey is delicious and nothing is overly sweet. I can't wait to go back!!! read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Storefront - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

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Al Sham Sweets is a great spot if you are looking to stock up on desserts. They have a wide selection of kunafa, baklava, and other sweets, and everything is priced really well for the quality and quantity you get. It is the kind of place you pop into when you want to bring something home or share with others. Just be aware that it is cash only. read more

Al sham has my heart. I will always be loyal here. Pistachio baklava is worth a million honestly. Anytime i stop by here their sweets are satisfying. Kunafa is a dessert of love. Service is great as well. Bring cash. read more

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This baklava got something extra going on in the background that makes me keep eating more trying to figure it out. Got 3 pieces for $4 each and it's well worth the price. Service is friendly, and knowledgeable with the person behind the counter patiently answering my questions. The store is clean, well stocked and the display tempts you to want to try everything and for $22/lb in May 2026, you might want to. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Pistachio baklava $4 - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

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Just your typical delicious family owned bakery. Super narrow and tiny with no place to stand and eat your goods. The people working there are super sweet and give great recs. I ordered the walnut baklava, the pistachio baklava, and the knafeh. While they were all great the baklava was my winner. read more

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Saw kebab meat on the window and immediately went inside. Was craving a gyro.... Oops. This is not a Greek restaurant, it's a Syrian Restaurant (Middle Eastern). Attempted to order take-out, however the cashier was on the phone talking to someone. Upon talking again and waiting she took my order. We ordered the chicken shawarma with more sauce. The garlic sauce is so good, definitely a must have. The cold slaw was not bad, could use some pepper. The third round container was onions and peppers. The fries were gone in seconds. I managed to eat two pieces and my partner ate it all. The location look cozy but we didn't stay. Overall, I would return but this time I would order boxes instead of one. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Chicken shawarma - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

Everything is Excellent here! You MUST get a mini pistachio baklava ($1.25) or two. Their awning is true - the best baklava. I'm surprised I didn't write a review sooner. It's a small homey shop (to-go, no tables) & a bit overwhelming with all the options. But you must also try a piece of their kanafeh (by pound) in giant circular flat pans towards the back (1/4 pound is a small plate). I like the crispy version better than the soft version. kanafeh has a mild pressed cheese base(like a healthy mild sweet very thick cheesecake maybe?) & toasted phyllo dough vermicelli noodles on top. I don't think they drizzle it with a lot of honey or syrup. The soft version has I think semolina on top (saffron for color). Recently pointed to a "cake/custard" in the case that look like it sold a lot. I think it's Layali Lubnan. A semolina pudding with a thin cream layer top. The base was like a thick rice pudding (with the tiniest semolina beads). Lots of orange blossom and rosewater notes. Also tried the Ma'amoul on the top shelf closest to the window. It's a grainy shortbread filled with date paste. The worker gave a cookie on the way out (the finest flour ladyfinger sandwich with maybe apricot jam & half dipped in chocolate. A box of mixed cookies from the front window would be a great gift. The staff is very nice & will answer any questions but I always feel bad for holding up the line & have a lot to learn about the different types of baked goods & cookies. I just know that I can never go wrong with the pistachio baklava (small). I was recently looking for a good version of the Dubai Chocolate bar & the Queens Foodie FB group led me here. $7 for either a "thick" version or the regular version. The bars are smaller than what I've seen at nearby cafes or candy stores ($16-20), but they're the perfect portion (about 6" long) because the bar & pistachio cream is very sweet. The toasted kanafeh noodles inside were addictingly crispy. There was only a milk chocolate version, no dark chocolate option because they make everything in house (seems like dark chocolate is not as cost-effective for businesses?). This bakery is one of the best in Astoria & a true family-owned small business! The staff seems to know everyone that comes in. About a 15-20 minute walk from the Steinway subway station or take a quick ride on Q101 to this Little Egypt area. They're extremely busy during Ramadan FYI! But if it's an excuse to have some baklava & kadayfeh, I'll be there! read more

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Best baklava I've ever had, seriously!! Anytime I need a gift for someone I get sweets from here and every single person says they're so good. The guy at the counter is very nice and suggests some new or different items every time. Will add a picture next time I remember to take one before devouring the goodies Love, love, love this place! About $20 for 12 pieces or so but they charge based on weight. If you want to get a good diverse platter of sweets it's $30-50 read more

I have been wanting to come back here a long time for their desserts and I finally picked some up today. The cheese knafe are so good as well as the variety of baklavas with different nuts. I got one of each: pistachio, almond and walnut. Guy was super nice and friendly. The ambiance is very traditional & authentic ambiance. I also asked for nut free for my kids and he recommended the two on the right w/o nuts. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

The BEST middle eastern sweets I've ever had! From the kunafe to the baklava to the cookies to the dubai chocolate. Everything is 10/10! In a popular North African and Middle Eastern area in Queens, this definitely stands out. The owner is a sweet guy and very helpful! If you want an authentic experience and welcoming atmosphere, definitely come here! read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

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Typically I think that baklava is too sweet but I'm actually in love with this place and I'll definitley be back. Keep in mind that it is cash only or Zelle which is interesting, and also there is no dine in. I got an assortment of sweets for $12 and my favorites were definitely the Bülbül Yuvası and the Fıstık Dolama. I honestly didn't know there were so many different types of baklava and I thought at first that they would all taste the same but because of the way the dough intersects with the nuts, they all have a very unique taste. Bülbül Yuvası especially surprised me because it had a significantly less sweet taste and it was also so dough-y like the traditional baklava. Also, I appreciate that it wasn't overally nutty as well. When we came, they had just sold out all their Dubai chocolates so I'll definitely be back to try those out!. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Sweets Assortment! - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

Great spot for middle eastern desert! They have so many different varieties of baklava. My personal favorite was the Knafeh, the sweetness paired well with the savory cheese. Great spot to get a post-dinner bite! There is a small counter ledge on the back wall if you want to eat at the shop. Cash only. read more

Al-Sham falls squarely into a time honored adage in my family which loosely translates to "if you see people lining up for something in the boroughs, get on because it's gonna be fire." While on the way back to the subway from Abuqir Seafood, where we had an exceptional meal, we noticed a line of folks waiting in the cold to get in to Al-Sham. We should probably get on line (see above). Hitting all of the marks, the smell, the sights, and the service were fantastic. We sampled a few of the sweets offered - the pistachio baklava, mixed nuts baklava, the smooth Knafeh, and the crispy Knafeh. I wasn't sure that it was possible but each one was better than the last, and then we started over again and each bite was even better. It didn't make sense and I'll have to continue to run experiments to see how that could even be. Honestly, these were some of the best deserts that I've ever had, and well worthy of a rare five stars. Cash / Zelle only. No seating. Simply exceptional. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Baklava and Knafeh - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

Ate here today with a group of cyclists to try this place out for the first time for brunch. We had definitely gotten different kinds of pastries and it looks really good. We definitely shared and ate together and it was absolutely delicious. The service there was also attentive and super fast. We couldn't agree more about it. Finally, I would definitely eat and come back again next time! :) read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

The knafeh's are SOO good and the staff warms them up so you can eat it hot and fresh! Lovely selection of sweet and baked goods and even dubai chocolate! The staff is super friendly and so welcoming. It's good that it's so far away from my place or else I'll be visiting here every day. read more

Al-Sham Sweets is a hidden gem and my favorite Middle Eastern Bakery. I first discovered this place in 2017 and have never forgotten about them. It's a tiny place (no seating) but they have alot to offer! There are sooooo many different kinds of sweets/desserts to pick from. It's really difficult to choose just one item since they ALL look fantastic! They sell numerous versions of Baklava in all sorts of shapes and fillings. My favorite item here is any of their Knafeh desserts; so decadent and satisfying!! I usually don't like overly sweet desserts but I make an exception with Knafeh! For those not familiar with Knafeh (also spelled Kunafa or Kanafa), it's made from shredded Phyllo, cheese and soaked in attar (a sweet syrup); serve warm but can also be eaten cold. There are many versions of Knafeh; with some which include pistachios or other nuts. No matter which version you pick, the Knafeh will leave you craving for more! It's sold by the pound; a generous portion will cost about $6. They also sell Dubia Chocolate!!! This is the latest dessert craze on social media, and Al-Sham's version does not disappoint! Their version is also the cheapest in the neighborhood! Most other places sell these 4 oz Dubai Chocolate Bars for $9 ($20 in Long Island...yikes!), but Al-Sham sells theirs for $7. This is definitely a treat and you should try it at least once. Al-Sham Sweets has been here for many years, and has a huge following, for good reason! Highly recommended! read more

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Great selection of middle eastern pastries. It is a bit overwhelming as none of the items are labeled so you would have to ask the staff for more information. The pastries are very decadent and more so on the sweeter side. It's perfect for sharing small bites. I tried this rose water milk pudding that I've never had before and it's so good! It's definitely not as sweet which is what I like. We also got other nut packed pastries and there were plenty that had chocolate covering as well. This place would be my frequent visit if only I lived walking distance from it. *CASH ONLY* read more

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This is by far the best sweets, desserts and cakes. Good customer service. Once I was buying some sweets and asked for a few cakes. He told me no, am taking them out they're not fresh. Thats exactly what he did in front of me. Unlike a greedy place thats near by sells almost everything rotten! read more

**CASH ONLY** This place is a baklava emporium. Stopped in after dinner down the block and went with just a few options - the pistachio baklava, mixed nuts baklava and mini kunafeh - but I could have eaten the whole case if left to my own devices. The mixed nuts baklava was my boyfriend's favorite, while I preferred the pure pistachio. Just incredible all around. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Baklava heaven - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

The smell as soon as you walk in is intoxicating. I smelled sugar and chocolate, and was delighted by the display cases of sweets. My boyfriend and I shared Crispy Knafeh. It is sold by the pound, and was so delicious that my eyes bulged out of their sockets in delight, like a cartoon. If you are lucky enough to end up here, you HAVE TO GET the Knafeh. They are cash only, but they do have an ATM inside. read more

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Simply the best - or among the top 5 baklava/knafpe places in town. I do not live nearby, but I often find a way to get out there.

A gem of a place serving authentic Arabic sweets. The original place to bring kunafeh to the neighborhood. Overwhelming amount of options but everything is very fresh and delicious. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Kunafeh with Ishta (cream). Probably my favorite one - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

-Best fresh baklava variety I've found in nyc -Kaneffe is geat and fresh but not the best (wink wink Nablus sweets) -Sweet and experienced staff with swift service despite high volume -it is pricey for baklava around $20 per pound but it's damn good so it iz what it iz bc SELF CaRE ***Warning: hide from your diabetic family members bc they WILL devour these precious nuggets like candy -Cash only so bring that paper! (zelle up to $10) read more

Al-Sham Sweets - 1/2 pound Kanefe (top), 1/2 pound mixed baklava (bottom) - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

My friends and I stopped here to grab some dessert. There are tons of baklava, a few different types of kunafeh, and various other pastries. There is no seating, so we ordered a few things to take with us. The cashier was very friendly and patient with us, which was much appreciated! I had the kunafeh, which is one of my favorites. The top wasn't as crispy as I had hoped for, but it was still delicious and warm. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Kunafeh - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

My husband loves baklava so of course we had to stop by this sweet shop. In the beginning I was only going to buy sweets for him but my eyes lit up as soon as I walked into this small shop. Sweet delights from side to side. At first I was going to take advantage of the baklava mix for $20 but then we saw other sweets on the counters and decided to buy those instead. I bought a slice of soft Knafeh, and a couple of baklava pieces. The prices were reasonable and the variety is awesome. The service was good. The staff answered all of our questions and were patient. This is a busy shop. There were customers coming and going. All of the sweets we tried were good. There is something for everyone in this shop. I believe it's cash only. I can't wait to go back to this shop to try more sweets. I recommend everyone to check them out. read more

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Kunafeh two ways and all the baklava you could dream of. The shop keeper was really friendly and informative if you do not know what you like they help you. Also they sell the ingredients for you to make at home if you desire. read more

Al-Sham was great, but I feel like the quality unfortunately went down and the service is very touch and go. I went during Ramadan so naturally it was a bit busier than usual. The soft knafeh with pistachios was really good. However, the hard knafeh ie crispy one was quite soggy and lackluster. The baklava was average as well unfortunately albeit being pretty highly priced. On top of that, it seems like the owner/whoever was working in the counter that day plays favorites since the minute someone who came in after me started speaking Arabic, he diverted his attention to them. The sad part is I had great memories going here back in high school (which was over a decade ago) but it is what it is...sigh. read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

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It's the best! The service unmatched Ambiance warm and homely I am like a kid in a candy shop when I visit Knafeh, the cookies, everything is worth the price and more I don't live close so I make sure to buy in bulk when I visit. The desserts taste amazing even later and that is all I need to know about the quality of their ingredients! Excellent! read more

I love this spot! It's an amazing, authentic baklava place right in little Egypt! It's just called baklava on the sign, so don't get lost! There is always a line whenever I come here which speaks to how good this small shop is! The pistachio baklava is my favorite! The suk Burek is good as well. They offer individual pieces as 2.50 a piece but they also offer a weighted box at 20/lb! The spot is cash only so remember to bring some next time you are in the area read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Inside - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

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I bought a 1.5 lb of the pistachio baklava. It was freshly made, lots of pistachios and honey, a delicious treat. Everyone enjoyed it at the office for a breakfast treat. read more

Once I observed a tour group, or at least what resembled a tour group, enter Al-Sham. Of course this was right before I was planning to duck in. Clearly, it's a popular spot! The variety here is tremendous (not just baklava), and the sweets come in all sorts of sizes and options. I need to try some of the coconut items next time for sure. The employees are kind and patient when being asked what the desserts are. I would say that it would help me and them too if the items were labelled. Due to Al-Sham's narrowness, it's more of a to-go establishment. Prices are reasonable. Cash only! read more

Steinway Street is rich with options from the Middle East and North Africa and as you make your way down the strip tasting the various savory options, be certain to save room for the delectable baklava, cookies, and knafeh from Al-Sham! If I had to pick 5 "Quintessentially Queens" places to visit, without a doubt Al-Sham would be on that list. This place is sweet tooth paradise and the selection and quality here are top-notch. Consistency is key here and every single visit here has been rewarding. I love introducing visitors to Queens to this place and it always makes for a nice gift whenever I take a selection of baklavas and other goodies over to peoples' homes during a visit. I can't say I have a single favorite item here so I let my eyes guide me and pick whatever appeals to me on each visit, or I do the smart thing and let the folks who work here put together a selection of their favorites and haven't been disappointed yet. Stellar establishment and one I hope is here for years and decades to come! read more

We ordered this massive tray of assorted baklava and loved all of them! I'd be lying if I knew exactly what each of them was but I liked the ones with pistachio and walnut the most! They were all syrupy and delicious. We also got knafeh but that was a bit soggy, unfortunately. Would def recommend this place! read more

Al-Sham Sweets - Desserts Near Me - Astoria, New York

Still they are one of the better baklava and Middle Eastern sweets places in all NYC. Absolutely a must! read more

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Absolutely delicious, fresh, well-priced, and quick service. I'll be coming back for sure, can't wait to have more Shabiyat and baklawa! read more

This place is a hole in the wall pastry shop. There's only a place for you to stand around and order to go orders, or you can eat it outside. This place only accepts cash as it's written on a sign. There are different items to choose from here, such as the cookies or baklava. The price point isn't bad either. I can see why this shop has such a huge following. The baklava was pretty good, and the different flavors with the almonds, pistachios, and walnuts were a great touch. I liked the almonds the best. I say if you're in the area to try this place. read more

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great vibes in there! and so many Arabic deserts to choose from! Service was good. that being said, crunchy kanafe was just okay. no cardamom or rose syrup, no pistachios on top. maybe it's a regional thing, but to me, the kanafe was basic. good crunch though! also got pistachio baklava. great amount of pistachios, but syrup drowns out the pistachio flavor. overall, high quality deserts, but the classic flavors are missing. read more

Theeee best. Cash only. Everything is delish. Service is great. Fast and easy! Highlyyy recommend.

Yoooooooo fucking 100/5 stars. This place is so fucking good and this is the shit. My Egyptian friend buys these by the tray and brings them to school. Came today and I was in heavy. The cost is affordable. It's about $1 per baklava (it's by weight) I'm so happy to have found this place. It's not overly sweet and they put a goood amount of nuts filling. When I die, I want them to serve baklava at my funeral. And this place is going to cater it read more

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Very organized Baklava store with a variety - depending on which nuts you like! They are sold by pounds. We were full from lunch earlier so we only ordered 3 pieces of their most popular one which came up to $5. The server was patient with us while we were deciding but as the line formed behind us, he quickly moved on to the next customer. Set up was just like a standard bakery with a hallway to walk into but it can get crowded especially for a store right on Steinway in the heart of Astoria. The Baklava was fresh, crispy and a tad sweet. Very good if you don't eat it too often! read more

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