Al-Sham Sweets
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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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!.
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.
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! :)
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!
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*
**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.
3 years ago
7 years ago
Cute little middle eastern sweets shop! I loved walking in and smelling the freshly baked desserts! There is fresh knafe, which is a dessert with melted cheese and rose water infused vermicelli. I know it sounds weird but you have to taste it for yourself! There's also tons of baklava to choose from. There are a few stools in the shop if you'd like to eat there. It's great for taking as gifts and will definitely stay fresh. We took the baklava to Boston and ate them for 2 days! My husband is from the Middle East and he thinks the baklava is very much like the ones made back home! I will definitely be back! read more
2 years ago
7 years ago
A Mediterranean sweet shop. It's surrounded by Mediterranean restaurants. As this is the only sweets shop in between its tiny spot. Probably standing space for 4-5 people at once. (There are two three chairs wouldn't recommend dining as its hard for other customers to come in and its kind of uncomfortable.) They have two different types of Kunefe one with the semolina and other with the crispy topping. The kunefe has fresh cheese filling and exact sweet content to proportionate the dessert. They only accept cash. Overall, they are fresh and great middle eastern deserts wide spread of them actually. read more
3 years ago
8 years ago
I'm not well versed in Middle Eastern desserts at all so excuse my ignorance as I try to explain all of the lovely things I tried at this tiny pastry shop recently. By far my favorite item was the flat, warm knafeh that was made on what looks like a crepe cooker, with caramelized syrup on top and a warm, stretchy, gooey cheese underneath. The other variations were also great, with the crispy bird's nest looking stuff on top, or the more mild-tasting milk cake. They also had a ton of different kinds of baklavah, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that many had a very floral flavor, stronger than rosewater (I think), and lots of choices of nut fillings. It's clear that most people take their items to go, as there is just one small counter and a couple of stools in the cramped spot, but our group stayed and chowed down on these shared dishes. We got like 5 different things to share and it all came out to just $15 (cash only)! read more
After our Israel trip I went searching for a place where you can get kanafeh in NY. Enter Al-Sham. This place is amazing! Their kanafeh is very good though not as good as the ones we had in Israel. You can also get different types of baklava, semolina cake, and other Middle Eastern sweets. Highly recommended if you're craving for those sweets! Note that it's cash only. read more
Al-sham has some of the greatest middle eastern sweets. Can not explain everything about the desserts but this place my cousin took me to and it is mind blowing. Atmospheric nice cozy place to come Get all kinds of sweets and treats. Nice small place to take your sweets to go or sit on some stools and enjoy the smell of the bakery. Freshness- everything is made fresh and in house. Dessert, there baklava is absolutely amazing and the big kenefa is amazing drizzled with honey the kenefa is a must try. There rice pudding is awesome to, with some great flavor. They have tons of choices also with many nut type choices. Money- it is a all cash place. They are charging by the pound so go on and enjoy. They have a atm if you need cash. IF YOUR A NEW person to these kinds of sweets the BAKLAVA IS A MUST. There COOKIES ARE AMAZING ALSO. Probably not any parking on the street so have someone with you or park a little further and walk or if your lucky you'll find street parking. read more
12 years ago
This place is awesome!!!! Talal is your guy! Always warm and welcoming despite the hour. Amazing customer service and an assortment of yummy baklava will have you crawling back in here over and over again! Though $13/lb may sound a bit pricey, it's worth every bite. Freshly made great quality baklava that's crisp and not too sweet. My favorite one is their almond and chocolate baklava, simply delicious! Highly recommend this place for your Baklava cravings! *Make sure the baklava is fresh when u get it or else it will taste soggy and not crispy*. read more
3 years ago
An exemplary bakery for Middle Eastern sweets. These are my favorite things here (but know that really, everything at Al-Sham is worth trying): 1. The pistachio knafeh! Petite squares stained green, stacked neatly in the display. Rosewater scented, chewy and sticky with honey... Heavenly. 2. The fresh knafeh! They have two types, displayed in large, shallow round pans on the counter. One is "crunchy" (with kataifi - phyllo shredded into thin noodles - on top of the cheese), one is "soft" (with semolina on top). Both are wonderful and best served warm, so the cheese gets a bit melty. The "crunchy" variety was the best I've ever had. I'm not usually a fan of kataifi since it's stale half the time, but Al-Sham seems to always get it right. All their other bites have been comparatively less memorable, but still outstanding. Anything with nuts is a winner. Nothing is cloyingly sweet, even though they're working in a genre where most things are syrup-soaked by definition. Come here and try a little bit of everything. I can't imagine that being a bad decision. The most familiar thing for a new visitor is probably the baklava. We've had the nut-filled and the cheese-filled baklava, served as large wedges. They were very good, but I still prefer the baklava at my favorite Greek bakery, soaked more liberally in honey. Prices are a mystery - everything must be around $15-20 per pound. Once, I filled a small styrofoam tray and it totaled $7. The next time, I chose 3x the volume of sweets, and it somehow became $40. Beware that if you carry out, the best they can do is swaddle the tray in plastic wrap, so don't be shocked if you have syrup dripping all over the bag later. read more
4 years ago
5 years ago
The gentlemen in the store were very kind and the desserts are so good. The rice pudding, graybeh short bread cookies, aish el saraya, and knafeh were lovely. Knafeh when warm is light and sweet. The aish el saraya is similar to bread pudding but even lighter. It is so worth the trip and I am looking forward to return. read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
They have the BEST kunafa and baklava; I just wish that they would take debit/credit card instead of cash only. read more
If you're looking to try authentic Arabic sweets this is the place to get it. It's a small shop that has desserts you can find in Syria, Egypt and Lebanon. They make kunafah with nuts and creme but the star is the kunafah with cheese. There are two types: crunchy and soft. They are both tasty just depends on the texture that you limit. You can taste and smell the butter. Another tasty option is their baklava stuffed with custard. All their desserts are very sweet but not too overwhelming. This place is more of an order to go but you can take your treat and pick any one of the many cafes to enjoy your dessert with a cup of tea or a Hookahif it's your thing. read more
9 years ago
After returning from Jordan, I needed to satisfy my sweet craving. Luckily for me, I found this place on yelp. Small and with friendly staff, they offer a variety of middle eastern desserts. The place has traffic. Lots of traffic. People come in and out, and they range from Dominican (me!), to Jordanian (good sign!!). Prices are super affordable, and the pastries are fresh. Now I know where to go when I crave kanafe (excuse the spelling), and theirs is pretty memorable. read more
3 years ago
Wow wow and wow! Always crave a good baklava but wherever we go it always forms a coating on top and the pasty always has a weird fragrance and texture! But al-shams texture and flavour was outstanding! One of our uncles got the Baklava home , can not wait to go there and try more of the baklava's and Kanafeh! read more
3 years ago
8 years ago
I don't know much about Palestinian food but I know I love kanafeh. If you stay and eat there it's warm and the cheese is gooey and the flavors are just delicious. I haven't tried anything else other than the baklava which is also amazing, flakey layers of dough, honey and filling. This review isn't much help because I don't have anything else to compare it to but it tastes good to me, the service is good. read more
4 years ago
6 years ago
Really good sweets/desserts in Astoria. We bought a platter of baklava and then two types of Knafeh; This place is **Cash Only** so true to bring cash or use the ATM in the store. read more
4 years ago
9 years ago
I've never been into Baklava. But Knafeh? With its tangle of crisp angel-hair like pastry shreds soaked in sugar syrup, often fragrant with either orange blossom or rose water, and layered with warm, stretchy, slightly salty cheese? Pure heaven. The usual experience of eating Knafeh conjures up that old Mother Goose nursery rhyme for me: "There was a little girl. Who had a little curl. Right in the middle of her forehead. When she was good, she was very, very good. But when she was bad, she was horrid." Stay with me. You see, my two favorite BK spots for this treat are Tanoreen and Taci's Beyti, respectively. But as very, very good as both these renditions are fresh out of the oven, they tend to lose their luster as the cheese cools and then stiffens, becoming you guessed it, horrid. Not so with the Cheese Knafeh from here. It starts off delicious and stays that way. I even nuked it at home and it was none the worse for it. Nothing short of alchemy, if you ask me. Disclaimer: This is a recount dating back a couple months, when I was feeling over Yelp. I've got my mojo back now and this place was tough to forget. read more
6 years ago
5 years ago
5 years ago
Nothing like ending the night with good arabic sweets and strong red tea. A friend of mine recommended this place so we came to check it out. The place has lots of options, from maamouls to different types of kunafas, to different baked goods. We tried the following: - Basbousa - Kunafa with cream (not cheese) - Mixed platter of baqlawa - Namoura The namoura was definitely the highlight, just the right level of density and sweetness. It won't disappoint. The let-down was the kunafa with cream, it was very plain and more on the mediocre end. Next time, I will definitely go with the cheese kunafa option. Prices were decent, the one thing to keep in mind though is that they're cash only! read more
8 years ago
I absolutely love this place I highly recommend the Kadief and Knafa Everything we ordered was delicious The staff are very friendly and the owner is very nice as well My new dessert place in astoria read more
More info about Al-Sham Sweets
24-39 Steinway St
Astoria, NY 11103
Astoria
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(718) 777-0876
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Al-Sham Sweets - desserts - Updated July 2026
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