Stepped in here with my friend for a good cup of tea and was immediately impressed. The atmosphere is phenomenal and the decor is delightful. When you walk in the owner is often the one to great you, the cash register to the left of the entrance, and a lovely assortment of trinkets to the right. The food itself was nice and light. I enjoyed the Knafeh. We also got an assortment of drinks. My personal favorite was the Salep (like a more savory creamier hot chocolate, hold the chocolate). The masala chai was a decent price for a pot and had a delightful flavor, I've since taken multiple people and a variety of different pallettes enjoy the flavor. This is a great date spot, but also low key enough to just enjoy if you want a place to relax, there's a small bookshelf if you wanted to un plug and read while you enjoy your tea. Ps. The owner is a professional guitarist, my friend who is also a professional musician has a wonderful time chatting with him about their shared passions. read more

Gahwa Café - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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My fiancé chose this place for a random date and I was really glad he did. From the photos from others on Yelp it looked like a place to unwind and relax so I couldn't wait. The photos didn't lie. This place is nicely tucked away from the Atlantic and San Pablo craziness. Walking in I felt transported to another country. As cliche as that sounds I don't have any other way to describe it. I love the items imported straight from Turkey for sale (the staff are true salespeople as they really wanted me to purchase something. They were beautiful but I didn't see anything that I HAD to have). In the back. the wisteria hanging from the ceiling and the middle eastern sofa for lounging and maybe for some snacks and hookah made it seem so cozy. I loved all the decor. The first thing we got was the Turkish Coffee that was heated in hot sand. The guy serving us, I wasn't sure if he was the owner or not was really great. He warned us not to ingest the coffee grind/powder/sludge on the bottom but that we'd really enjoy the taste. That was perhaps the best tasting coffee I've ever had not to mention it was nuclear hot. We got the Charcuterie for 2 which had lebna or lebneh, cheddar, gyro meat which I thought was shawarma but it wasn't, grape leaves, hummus, fruits and crackers with a side of honey and pita bread slices. I don't remember having lebna before but I loved it. There were some extras we got like the mozzarella balls, the ful medames, olives, and I believe some kind of date cakes. Trust me. We were good after eating all of this. My fiance also had Lentil soup which he said was nice and simple. Definitely had a wonderful experience. read more

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Coming here feels like walking into someone's home for a meal. The food is delicious and made on site (don't forget a lemonade and a baklava!). Service is warm and friendly and what a beautiful place! Everything about this place is worth coming back again and again! read more

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Way too much for what it is. Never have I paid 29.99 for an average pizza with raw dough. Everything in this restaurant is a ripoff would never recommend and or visit here again. Spent $60.00 for 3 drinks and a raw pizza with a few bits and pieces of meat on it. I would rate it a 0 star if I could read more

I stopped in Gahwa Cafe after dinner last weekend for dessert. What a nice space! After about five minutes inside I felt so relaxed. My friend and I ordered a trio of desserts. All which were fabulous! They sold classic and Turkish pistatio baklava (my favorite), basbousa, cheese kunafa, lava cake (served with icrecream), cheese danishes and much more. The pastries were fresh sweet and delicious. They sold Turkish coffee on sand which I would have loved to have seen made but I don't drink coffee lol. We ordered Moroccan mint tea to go with our pastries. It was light and refreshing. And I still can't get over the lovely tea set used for serving. There were many other drink options such as hot chocolate, frappuccino, chai Masala and more. You are sure to find something to please everyone in your party. They also serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and I can't wait to come back and try the food! They sold beautiful jewelry and I was almost enticed LOL. I will mention again I was fascinated with the decor from the colorful lamps to the flowers hanging from the ceiling and everything in between. I loved this place and I can't wait to come back for more tea and relaxing! read more

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Gahwa Café had been on my list of places to try, so when I showed up to dinner at a restaurant and saw that the café was located directly next door, I was excited for a chance to try it. The decor is lovely -- it definitely feels like you've stepped out of Jacksonville. There are a few tables and a couple couches, which we found to be comfortable. The gentleman working the night we visited (the owner, I think?) was kind and helpful. We ended up splitting a pot of Moroccan tea and a few dessert, including dates and a pistachio baklava that was absolutely delicious. I would have loved to try the Turkish coffee made on sand, but alas, I knew that combining my body and caffeine at 9 PM would not have been the best move. There is a little area upfront with some trinkets -- some weren't my style, others were, and I ended up coming home with a bracelet I'm still wearing. I'd love to see labels showing what actually came from where, because I think it's super cool to shop from the same communities represented in a cafe, restaurant, etc. All that said, I will definitely stop in here again. It feels like a great place to come with a friend or even just pop in for a drink and bite while running errands. read more

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First time coming here and definitely a near experience which I was excited for and the main goal was the Turkish coffee on sand. Food was delicious and the whole board was gone lol. Now the coffee, smelled wonderful and also VERY HOT after it is poured into the small cup which I believe is 2oz and covered so give it a minute uncoverd. Service was great and we were well taken care of. Definitely looking forward to going again and trying other items so if you're looking to venture off a bit Definitely give Gahwa Café a try. read more

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Stopped in for some Turkish coffee and baklava. Both are great. The guy behind the counter is personable and easy to talk to. You can tell he loves his culture. The place is also soooo beautiful. read more

Gahwa Café - Pistachio baklava - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

It's unusual for me to post such a low review,but.. So we were excited to try this place for lunch as most reviews were quite good and it looked so unique. We were the only people there at 12:30 for lunch. The only 2 kabobs on the menu were discontinued so not much protein to choose from. Presentation of the dishes was nice. Mostly flavorless. We ordered from the menu, but unfortunately didn't ask the price for the small pizza. No check to review before paying at the register on your way out. When the itemized total displayed at $82 we were shocked! Prices at check out were all $2-4 per item higher than on the menu! And then the shocked of the small pizza! And the owner, greeter, server, chef did not say a word about when he aat us or took our order. Wow! Hence, we will not return. read more

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This place is a hidden Gem! The owner makes all food items from scratch. Middle eastern food items, scrumptious treats and more. The ambiance is very warm and welcoming. Feels like home. Sit back, relax and enjoy the surroundings. This fine establishment will transport you to a place and time far away. Nowadays, an escape from reality is needed to escape the stressor of life. Stop by for a flavorful hookah, a hot or cold beverage of your choice and a freshly prepared meal. You won't be disappointed! read more

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Wow! Now Gawah Cafe is really such a hidden gem we were on a treasure hunt. We found the shopping area where it was located but we initially drove right by it. I pulled up some Yelp pics that were a little helpful. Second pass we saw it. There was parking reserved up front for the smaller shops, which is a fantastic idea! The interior is absolutely beautiful, serene, and cozy. There is a small area at the front with cute little treasures for purchase: jewelry, nic Mac's, etc. The booth was a little low for us oldsters but it wasn't uncomfortable. There are three booths, a couple of tables and a majlis area. Seems very traditional. We shared a Gyro patter, a side of fruit and ordered baklava and Dubai chocolate bar to go. Best, most flavorful gyro meat I can recall. Pita was soft and fresh, Fruit was sweet and juicy, especially the apple! We loved the hummus. No additional seasoning was needed for anything, which is unheard of for us. You MUST try this hidden treasure! read more

What a cute, lovely place!! The decor makes it feel like you're transported to another country. It's beautiful and the owners were lovely and accommodating as well. My book club had our meeting here and we made a reservation. All of us tried a variety of coffees, drinks, and food items. I tried the chicken schwarma platter, and it was fantastic! It came with grilled spiced chicken, lettuce and diced tomato, the most delicious hummus, and fresh warm pita bread. So so good!!! I saved half for my lunch tomorrow. We will be back!! read more

Gahwa Café - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

What a laid back atmosphere to celebrate a friends birthday. We started with Chi Karak and Turkish coffee .The Gyro Platter with the side of hummus is the best .The owner/ server was so attentive . He surprised the birthday girl with a birthday dessert. read more

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Gahwa Café: A Hidden Gem That Feels Like a Passport Stamp You know that magical feeling you get when you're traveling and stumble upon a cozy little café tucked away off the beaten path? That's exactly the vibe at Gahwa Café--except we were right here in Jacksonville. Who knew!? This place is an absolute gem. We wandered in looking for a caffeine fix and left with warm hearts, full bellies, and an impromptu lesson in Turkish coffee. The owner was so kind and passionate--he walked us through the entire process like we were guests in his home, not just customers. The Turkish coffee? Rich, flavorful, and probably infused with a little magic. We half-expected to start reading each other's fortunes in the grounds. Spoiler: the future includes us coming back. A lot. If you love good coffee, great conversation, and that thrilling "I just found something special" feeling--Gahwa is calling. Don't sleep on this one, Jacksonville. read more

Gahwa Café - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Owner and service A++ Lentil soup x2 so so good. Gyro platter and the special "off menu" pizza fantastic. Turkish coffee for 2 with Baklava : Delightful. Did I mention the owner was super nice ?! read more

Finally got a chance to try this Cafe and I'll definitely be back. A friend recommended we try it since she had just discovered it. She ordered the gyro plate and thoroughly enjoyed it. I asked for a 'sampler' which is not something they have on the menu, however the owner was kind enough to make me a special plate with stuffed grape leaves, kibbi, and falafel - I enjoyed all three!! Next time I'll try his new chicken dish. The interior is delightful relaxing and comfortable to just have a leisurely meal and enjoy the company you're with. I didn't think to take any photos, but those provided are accurate of what is served. I also enjoyed the mint lemonade. read more

The place is aesthetic but food doesn't match, gimmicky and felt cheated of my money.

NEW Turkish Café. @gahwacafe is a hidden gem on Atlantic Blvd. Everything about this place is fantastic from the moment you walk in the ambience, the service, Arabic scrumptious pastries, coffee, chai and Turkish food. We had the grape leaves, hummus, falafel, salad with warm pita wedges delicious Arabic pastries and the Turkish coffee straight from Istanbul! Everything was wonderful, and we got to watch them make the coffee in the hot sand which was really neat! We love to support local small businesses and look forward to coming here a lot more often. The owners of this place are such nice people, very kind, attentive & caring + welcoming! We really had a great time, talking to the owners and trying their delicious food. If you haven't checked out @gahwacafe yet I highly suggest you visit them to get a taste of Turkish food, ambience and culture. Gahwa Cafe 13475 Atlantic Blvd, Harbor village plaza, Jacksonville, FL 32225 read more

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Cute Traditional and delicious cafe. This quaint place was super cute inside. It has a turkish arab feel and the food is delicious. Located at Harbour village plaza. Right in the same plaza as fresh market on Atlantic blvd. It's super cool when you walk in. You'll see a coffee bar where there is hot sand and someone dipping the coffee cup handler over it still that the coffee gets thicker and stronger. It's a traditional way they make coffee in Turkey. Also there is an ottoman low chase we're you can sit and enjoy coffee as well. the place has a mixture of Syrian, Turkish and Egyptian style. They did cute mural on one side of the wall as the desert and a nice section where they did a traditional middle eastern majlis (seating section low to floor.) While we were seated we tried the kunefa which is this delicious cheesy dessert with honey. We had also the turkish coffee and some tea. The coffee was too thick and strong for me but that is how it's done. Service was amazing everyone was friendly. Will definitely be back again. read more

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I've never been to a Turkish cafe before and I was ecstatic when I found out we had a place here. I've always watched videos of how they would make turkish coffee by the hot sand method. And lo and behold, this place does that! We went on a Saturday around 12pm. The cafe is a cozy size and upon walking in, we felt that we walked straight into Turkey! The cafe was so cute and adorned with Turkish paintings, decorations, and even the tea cups were beautiful and delicate. They have some sofa areas for lounging and booths, but we decided to sit at a table. The cafe started getting busy as the day progressed and we could see why! The customer service was outstanding and the waitress was quick, sweet, and helped us score a special deal. We wanted to try some Turkish coffee and she said they had a deal of two Turkish coffee shots that comes with two bakery items. So we did just that! We ordered the two coffee shots and two baklavas, a gyro plate, a gyro wrap, and falafel. Here are our ratings: Falafel: 10/10 - I've tried many falafels in my lifetime and this one was by far the best. It was fried perfectly and the filling was so hearty, delicious, and fresh! Some falafels can have a weird aftertaste, but this one did not disappoint. The herbs were so fresh that I exclaimed "wow" while I was eating one. The plate comes with 4, hefty sized falafel and homemade hummus. The best hummus I've ever had as well. You can tell how fresh the chickpeas are and it literally tastes like they just made it! Came with a pickle as well! Gyro platter/wrap: 9.5/10 - The lamb was so tender and fresh! Lamb usually has a really gamey aftertaste if not prepared correctly but here, they did it right. They give you a good amount of lamb on the wrap and platter. The wrap comes with hummus and it's a large size wrap! The tzatziki sauce took it to a whole new level. I cannot describe the lamb's flavor but it was fragrant, seasoned extremely well, juicy, and with every bite, I kept wanting more. The platter came with the lamb, pita bread, hummus, and a fresh salad. The pita bread was bouncy, fluffy, and when dipped in the hummus, was chef's kiss! I believe the wrap is made with the same pita bread as well. We all shared everything and nothing left was on the plates afterwards. That was how good the food was! Both plates came with a fresh pickle, which I appreciated because the tartness helps balances everything out. Turkish coffee: 8/10 - I never had authentic Turkish coffee before and it did not disappointment. It was very strong, smoky, and fragrant! I like my coffee on the sweeter side so I added alot of sugar. They have a jar of sugar on the table that you can customize how much sweetness you would like it. Don't drink the bottom though because it contains all the grit and sediment! I'm giving it a 8/10 because I wish there was more in a shot! About 1/4 of it was the sediment and residual at the bottom of the cup. But nonetheless, the coffee is great! Chai tea: 6/10 - we wanted to like this but it tasted pretty watered down. The spices and flavors were there but I wish there was more of a punch in flavors. Maybe it was an off day? Baklava - 9/10 - the flakiest, richest, and one of the most flavorful baklava I've ever eaten. The pastry was so light and when dipped in the coffee, melts in your mouth. The pistachio filling was very prominent and the texture of the pistachio nuts provided another layer that was very pleasing on the palette. It came with caramel drizzle and all the flavors just worked so well together.The pastry dough was super fresh and did not taste stale at all. I don't enjoy artificial pistachio flavoring and here, there were none of that. I would definitely get the baklava again and try their other desserts! Overall, our first time experience here was amazing. We plan to come back and try other items on their menu. I think its family owned as well, which makes it even better! We always love supporting small businesses! read more

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This restaurant is near us and I was excited to try it for a take out meal for one. The owner/manager was very nice when I called with a few questions and my order. Excellent customer service. I ordered the veggie grape leaves which come in an order of five with tazaki sauce. They were good but I think they would have been better if I had eaten them there as they were a bit mushy in the transport. The hummus was good but I did not care for their pita bread and I doubled the order of that. It had a very strange taste and texture. I like fresh and fluffy pita and this is not what I experienced. I want to go back and eat there in house to have a better experience. The owner was so nice and I assume this was a one off. read more

Gahwa Café - Hummus, pita bread, veggie grape leaves - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

I've had this marvelous cafe on my radar for a couple of months now. Months back when I was still in San Diego I visited and reviewed a fabulous Turkish cafe named "Finjan Coffee." I had an expected (and hoped) that Gahwa Cafe would be sort of a repeat of Finjan - and it sure didn't disappoint! The Gahwa Cafe has been at its location for over a year now. It's soundly Middle Eastern, traditional, and gives a feeling of something apart from the typical cafe experience. And in Gahwa's case, that's a good thing! It's hard not to be captivated by the decor in this shop! Middle Eastern/Turkish design, decorations, photos, etc are everywhere! The chairs and tables have it and I couldn't resist being seated at one! Having been in the Middle East a few years ago, it sort of gave me a feel for times past, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The owner, Husham, is a true professional in his craft and a very kind gentleman. I was very impressed how he took time to explain things about his shop, where it is and where he hopes to take it. The cafe has a pretty good menu right now, but a new expanded one is coming out any day now. Aside from ordering coffee, dessert/danishes, and meals, customers are free to read books off the shelf in the shop, use the games boards available in the seating area, and there is a hookah area in the rear area of the shop. As for the my order, we had hummus, along with lavender and mocha lattes. The hummus is MUST TRY! It is made fresh in the shop (sometimes multiple times each day). Husham wants customers to only have fresh hummus - now that deserves a bonus star! The lattes, aside from the beautiful froth design on top, were delicious too! I had ordered baklava, But I forgot to pick it up at the counter before I left the shop!! However, I was thrilled when I got a try of the Turkish coffee. It was fascinating to watch the preparation (see my video in the photos). It was also unbelievable taste! Next time I order a full one! I do see there are gyros on the menu as well. Next time I visit, that will be on my order slate too! My experience at Gahwa Cafe was exceptional! I would say more than I expected, but when you have a great owner who cares about both his craft and the customers, you can't ask for much better than that! I'll be back to this one soon! Recommend: VERY HIGH read more

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I had Turkish coffee about 9 years ago and have been dreaming about it ever since...FINALLY! Coffee on sand is here in Jacksonville. If you've never experienced a cup of Turkish coffee, I need you to show some love and get to Gahwa Cafe as soon as possible. Coffee on sand is so many things--finely ground coffee beans, a mix of spices, a little sugar, and hot water brewed in an ornate pot on sand that's heated to 150-200 degrees -- it truly makes this cup of coffee magical. We ordered the Turkish Coffee for two, which came with mixed nuts, honey, 2 pieces each of lady arms and sparrows nest. We also ordered knufeh and baklava. The desserts were all delicious. And I felt like my Turkish dreams came true today! Aside from the coffee, I also have been looking for lady arms (znoud al sit) to rival some I had last year while traveling--and this is it. The texture was soft, the filling moist and the sweetness was just right. The space is absolutely gorgeous. And, they have outlets at each table, as well as WIFi, if you work remote. But you don't have to be working to enjoy this beautiful space. Definitely a unique coffee house that you will not find anywhere else in the city. I also cannot rave enough about the owners. Such beautiful spirits and excellent service. I'm already looking forward to my next visit! read more

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What a waste of a night out! Based on the reviews and photos, we thought this place would be a cool place. Most of the food was average to horrible. Some items were good. The grill cheese was literally two slice of bread wonder bread and one slice of American cheese food. The spinach pie was the worst I've ever had!! The gyro was less than average and the owner didn't even know how to pronounce gyro. At the end, I felt that our total bill was high and the owner took the itemized receipt from me without giving me a chance see it. Very sketchy!!! I don't expect this place to be around very long. We won't be back!! read more

Get better food choices pls. As well cooks who can make the food similar to all other cooks. As for the ambiance and vibes it's okay could be better. All around proud of yall. But just I want to like this place I do but everytime it's never a good experience. SMH. I even drive far too. Gave your place a few chances still am. Just not it. Sorry. read more

Stopped in on a whim and I am so happy we did. This Turkish cafe is family run and owned. I have never had Turkish coffee before, but the dad was very helpful with all of my questions. The Turkish coffee is made on a bed of sand. A super unique method. You can get hookah here and hangout w the various books they have to read. Such a friendly atmosphere. read more

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My bf and I went in on a week day in the early afternoon/late morning so we were the only ones there, and it was such a wonderful café. The traditional Turkish coffee was divine with such a deep and complex flavor palette. The "sediment" (finely ground beans) used for the process does give it a noticeable texture but don't let that deter you, the flavor is next level. The owner was super friendly and attentive. They convinced us to try the charcuterie board for 2 since it was our first time and we wanted to try a bit of everything, and gotta say he nailed it because the food was delicious. Absolutely will be coming back again soon. read more

This would be our second time here and as always, it's a treat to come by and enjoy some authentic foods made by owner. It's a small and quaint place with has an awesome interior decor. It has a hookah reservation area where you can enjoy with your family and friends. There's always a video playing in the background about a small homestead village preparing food for a family or celebration which always makes me feel warm. The owner is the primary host and server so you get the best treatment you can on the house. He's great guy with a great personality. A little rough on the edges and definitely has a great heart. The lemonade is pretty good and the plate was to die for. Hummus is also great paired with the warm pita to complete the pair. Stop by to check them out, you won't regret it. read more

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I already know I need to go back- I had dinner next door tonight and was eyeballing them on the way out! I tried their pomegranate tea last time and John had their lemonade and I am hoping to try the coffee in the very near future! The owner (?) was very nice and helpful- I love the vibrant art and authentic Turkish coffee and wares. You just feel like you've walked into somewhere exotic! read more

I don't understand how this place gets a 4.8 rating. They have the worst Gyros I've ever had. It's not even made or cooked there, The food looks like it was bought from GFS and heated in a microwave. Very little meat. Very tasteless meat, Even the pita bread looks and tastes like store bought. The only possible explanation for their 4.8 rating is they are rating only their coffee, because their food really sucks. read more

A unique experience ... coffee made on hot sand! I loved the cardamom in the coffee!l. The desserts were so sweet and yummy! read more

Gahwa Café - Turkish coffee for 2 comes with 2 pieces of delicious dessert - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Awesome! Hidden Gem. I loved so many things about it. Inside is cozy great for dates, girl time, friend time whatever time. We ordered the Turkish Coffee I loved it ! I am from California and have had homemade turkish coffee with my european friends and it has been a favorite of mine, Gahwa cafe made theirs superb! We also had baklava that was also amazing! Made to perfection, now the winner is the Lemonade it is made with peels and all as it should! Wonderful tart taste not an overload of sugar like mostly everyone else. Service was Top Notch. Our total was about $30 we ordered the Turkish coffee duo came with two Turkish Coffees and Tewo Desserts as well as two lemonades. Awesome spot give them a try! read more

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The food was good, but smaller portions-i like that but the man did not so much. Coffee was good-the baklava was not the baklava I knew. It was pistachio, I like the one with walnuts much better. Service was good too, I just didn't know the right questions. The design was nice for a smaller type cafe. For me it was a nice experience for just the one visit. read more

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Incredible little cafe close to the Beaches area...we absolutely loved our visit here! The owner was very kind and humorous. We loved that they offered a different kind of coffee experience and immersed us in their culture. Their pastries and desserts were wonderful. The coffee was made fresh and the it was a unique experience. We definitely recommend visiting here if you want great customer service and a different experience than your typical cafe! We will definitely be returning soon. read more

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I was immediately blown away by the beauty and charm of this place and then I was greeted with the warmest welcome. The owner was a one-man show today and he handled it all excellently. He greeted, seated, took orders, prepared food, delivered food, smiled, followed up, and checked me out as well. He's a rock star just from that. Oh, but it doesn't stop there! The quality of the ingredients and the uniqueness of the menu choices were top-notch. I was able to order something from the 2025 coming menu (lamb pizza) and I loved it. Let's start with my starters first. The lentil soup did not come to play. I've tasted this soup in almost all the countries I've visited, and to find the best version right here at home was mind-blowing. The falafel was tasty as well. But, but, but, but, that pizza was other-worldly. It is made fresh to order and each ingredient dazzled my palate in amazing ways. The hummus in the middle made me speechless. Everything was so authentic and so fragrant, that I'll make this spot a regular. read more

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Best hummus I've had in a while. We also, shared the falafel and one of their new Mediterranean pizzas . Highly recommend supporting this business . Food was very fresh and authentic read more

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Such beautiful decoration! Authentic traditional coffee experience and great baklava too

Awesome to see a place that reminds me of relaxing with my uncle with the coffee, and the food. Would recommend this place if you want to relax, talk or even study. Owner was very nice and loved talking to the guy. read more

Everyone and everything was perfect. Friendly staff that make you feel welcome and like family. read more

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Delicious Turkish coffee. Love love the gyres platter, spinach pies and imported Turkish pastries. Looking forward to trying other things on the menu. A delightful small locally owned business and beautiful setting for enjoying coffee, tea and a special meal. Highly recommend. read more