Omg amazing. Amazing quality, amazing workers, amazing food, wow. Dukkah donut- TASTES LIKE CHURROS YUMM The cold mezze platter is also a must. So delicious, nutritious, and colorful :) We also got the rib special of the day- yessss Shakshukah- it's a favorite here, get it for sure The place is super tiny and people go in and out but it's CROWDED. I will be back though, and have been raving about it to everyone read more

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Has a nice selection of pastries and Persian meals. Can get cramped inside if you visit on a weekend!

A unique cafe/bakery featuring Turkish, Levantine, and other Middle Eastern foods and their own interpretations of them. The food and special beverages are very good. The blood orange and hibiscus ice tea is particularly nice. Service & food times (mid-afternoon) were quick. Limited indoor seating. read more

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This place is just down the street from my partner and I. We frequent this place once to twice a month. Usually for dinner. Our favorites include the Moussaka, I get the lamb shawarma, and he likes the chicken shawarma. The Moussaka is baked and served in a mini cast iron pan. There's something comforting about that. The lamb is shredded, tender and infused with amazing flavors. It's wrapped with pickled cabbage and tahini in a warm toasted flat bread...mmm...mmm...mmm, and served with yogurt on the side. Other things to taste is the Turkish breakfast, and Spanakopita. Okay who am I kidding!? Taste all of their pastries. :) Avoid going during peak hours. This is a small space, inside and out. Get there before or after the crowds, you'll be able to enjoy it that much more. read more

SOFRA Bakery & Cafe - Lamb shawarma with pickled cabbage, tahini, and yogurt - Middle Eastern Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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The food here is really good, so that's the main selling point. Unfortunately portions are small as is the building. It's always super crowded and has very little seating and parking. read more

Went for a Chai latte and grabbed some dolmas from their fridge section and both were delicious. Dolmas were rich and the currant, nut, and rice filling really hit the spot. Iced Chai latte was refreshing and had a strong cardamom flavor. It was so good I might legitimately go back tomorrow to try more things. read more

Sofra never disappoints! This is a must try bakery if you come to visit Boston. I recommend the almond rose cake and the blondies, but there are so many amazing baked goods that you can't go wrong! They also serve pre-packaged meals that you can heat up (and are healthy as well). read more

SOFRA Bakery & Cafe - Almond - Rose Cake - Middle Eastern Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

The best pastries. You literally cannot go wrong. Sometimes there is a bit of a line; good things cone to those who wait. These guys are sweet and savory pastry wizards! Great food, and normal human sized portions too! read more

As an Armenian American from SC, we don't even know that restaurants in the united states make this type of food outside NYC and Cali. With that said this was a great surprise to stumble upon this place one Saturday Morning. The food was authentic and almost tasted as good as the cheese boreks my grandma used to make back in the day. I would highly recommend going here for lunch, however go early or late because it's a cluster in there on the weekends! Minus one star for the crowds... maybe 5 stars to go? read more

Even with Covid there are massive lines to pick up some of the amazing food at SOFRA. For me as a sweet tooth person, it is all about the desserts. You can't go wrong and I have gifted these desserts and been told wow these are some of the best desserts I've ever had. The savory dishes are very fresh, and you can really taste the ingredients and spices within. If you have a little bit of time,I highly recommend you walk around Mount Auburn Cemetery, which is very historic and despite being a cemetery actually quite beautiful to spend some time in read more

Heard a lot of great things, so I really want to like this place. I sort of blame this "bad" review on what I ordered, so I'm looking forward to coming back. Orange blossom lemonade -- I think I was jipped and just served regular lemonade. The lemonade wasn't even outstanding -- lackluster would be a generous adjective Moussaka (spiced ground lamb on eggplant slices with mornay sauce) - Tasty, but overpriced for portion. Would not get again, would not recommend others to try read more

The food is so different from a lot of things in the area. I always get the Chicken shawarma, but have to rotate on the sweets because they're all so delicious. My favorites are the Meyer Lemon Tart and the Pistachio Olive Oil Cake. Highly recommend! read more

I just visited Sofra for the first time after a friend who was in town for the day mentioned that he wanted some Middle Eastern food. I didn't know exactly what Sofra offered but I knew it would fit the bill and it did. Next time I go I will probably get the mezze and just dip the lovely, airy bread in it. This time we were both hungry so we went with something more substantial. Lamb shwarmas, which were crispy on the outside and fatty and tender on the inside were the main course. We also both got the plate of buttered hummus which (super bonus) had two thin layers of cured meat layered over the top along with delicious black olives and chopped tomatoes. The bee sting pastry was the perfect finish. I will definitely be back again. read more

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Upon arrival in Cambridge from the west coast, this is the first place on my mind. Screw east coast seafood. Must. Have. SOFRA! Tasty, tasty Sofra. Ahem. This is the type of place where you want to bring a few friends so you can try multiple things, otherwise you'll stand at the counter, paralyzed by all of the amazing choices. But fear not, you can't really lose. Everything I've tried is FANTASTIC - from the cheesy flatbreads served warm and gooey to the wide range of sugar-filled baked goods. If you're a macaroon fan, this is a FAB option. I've heard the persian spice donuts are great, but they've always been out of them by the time my lazy self wanders in around lunch time. I think you have to get in pretty early to catch them, since this place is ALWAYS crowded. Pro Tip: Now, you may have read that they're stingy with their delicious pita bread, while this is true (only got one piece with an order of hummus, not nearly enough!) fear not -- they sell "half baked" bags of pita to take home for only $4 with 6 or 7 pieces inside. I highly recommend toasting them in the oven for a few minutes before enjoying. read more

SOFRA Bakery & Cafe - Middle Eastern Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I love the concept of this bakery, everything just looks sooooo yummy! What bums me out is the lack of ingredients for... everything. What if you have a food allergy? I asked the guy behind the counter if any of his cookies or pastries were vegan and he um'ed and ah'd and finally said "I think they all have butter." I can't eat dairy, but I wasn't too hungry, so it wasn't a big deal, but I think labeling foods would be super helpful for other customers as well. So -1 star for lack of labeling things. Otherwise, very nice atmosphere, lots of fun little spice mixes, pickled foods, cookbooks written by the owner (I think)... very fun! Bottom line: I like the place but I don't know if I can eat anything here and I wasn't confident that the people behind the counters knew the ingredients. Let me know if you offer any vegan dishes, and I promise I'll be back =) read more

SOFRA Bakery & Cafe - Counter and cash register - Middle Eastern Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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The food is delicious. Service was great. The cafe is really small so might not be a good idea for large groups or if you are trying to have a sit down read more

Great neighborhood place to grab a meal or a quick bite. Super friendly staff. Awesome food.

Decidedly OK. Review is for the pastries, not the food I've gotten a slew of their pastries and unless the pastry feautures something like apricot or pistachio, they often lack any distinguishable flavor. The texture is perfect, but for the price, you want good flavor, too. This quote from a bio on the executive chef from D'Artagnan.com I think explains the lack of flavor: "Not knowing anything about Turkish food or culture but eager to learn, she accepted. ("I imagined flying carpets and genies," she says wryly.)" Flying carpets and genies? Nice. Service is very friendly and quick. There are Armenian bakeries/grocers a little further up the 71 and 73 bus lines that pack both a texture and flavor punch. Much more mom 'n pop vibes and you can feel the homemade, generational love in the service and their food. read more

I don't know really why I like the food here even though it's always crowded, long line and no place to sit! Food is usually tasty and full of different flavors! I enjoy the Lamb shawarma as I can really taste the Lamby meat with the great seasoning. A bit overpriced but living in Boston area made it the new "normal" prices. read more

It's long over due to write this review. It's one of my favs place back in MA! Everything here are delish, fresh and tasty! I love their uniquenes esp the chocolate baklava...ummm yumm. Their drinks ohh my its all unique! The only complaint back then was the space, it's limited one. But heyy as long as my tummy full? I don't mind! I miss this place though...can't wait to go back home and do regular things aka enjoying my bakery and ayran. This deff one of Mediterranean bakery style that you have to visit when you are in Boston! read more

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Sofra is a wonderfully quaint spot filled with character that's exuded by its menu boldly written on just regular brown paper. Its menu declared a variety of different of hummuses (hummi?), breakfast options, pita, and more. Its dessert menu boasted delicious middle eastern treats and there was an impressively extensive drink menu for all you drink lovers out there, filled with hot and cold teas, juices, coffees, lattes, and more. My only qualm I would have with the place is cashier wasn't very helpful with placing my order. I told her I love pickled Foods and creamy textures and instead of taking that into account, she rattled off 5 different popular items whose names were unrecognizable to me due to my unfamiliarity with middle eastern cuisine. I ended up going with a sausage pita, which was good! But didn't fit the bill of my preferences. However, if you like savory crumbled, garlicky sausage paired with the creamy, slightly milled texture of Greek yogurt wrapped in a toasted tortilla-like wrap with crisp edges, the sausage wrap is for you! However if you're more into pickled or creamy flavors I would look into the other menu options. The black tea with cocoa and rose was absolutely delectable and I highly recommend it!!! I can't say anything about it compared to the other drinks since this is the only one I had, however it's great for those who love floral overtones. It had just a hint of a honey flavor in it as well which elevated its floral flavors, and was overall just a lovely black tea with rose and honey flavorings. read more

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Great flavors to be found here. Often crowded during brunch hours but really great (read: you might get a seat) if you can get there early. Have never been for lunch but go for breakfast/brunch all the time. What you should try: * shakshuka** (egg poached in tomato w/ curry and pita crumbs and this amazing, minty? fresh herb paste that I cannot identify the components of YET.) * egg sandwich with bacon and haloumi (rather small but served on a very soft roll) * Persian spice doughnut * Moroccan spice doughnut (similar to above but with strong citrus flavor) Can also get the great sauces and pastes used at the sister-restaurant Oleana. Though they do not come cheap, those I've tried have been worth it. **basically all of these stars are for the shakshuka and the Persian spice doughnut. read more

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Must try: - Red Dragon Iced Tea (green tean, sour cherry puree, lemon juice, syrup) - Pitas (really, just light and fluffy, delicious bread) - Muhammarra (the best I've had) - Moussaka (comfort food) - Ma'amoul (spiraled version--very fun) Alright: - Shakshuka (not as hearty as I would like, and a little bland) - Shawarma (having lived in Turkey I guess I wanted something more traditional--or with a larger serving for the price) - Shortbread - Simit (simit-inspired scone) - Semolina pancakes w/jam - Turkish breakfast read more

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Delicious but crowded. Be ready to hover for a seat. Food is super unique and good! I wish there was one closer to the college campuses. Love the pastries- cheese brioche, buckwheat biscuit, sesame pistachio pop tart. List goes on and on. I also got the fried cauliflower special. read more

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It is a Turkish bakery and great spot for breakfast. It is not a formal sit down place. You order at the counter and hope that a seat is available. The food was great. I ordered an egg sandwich and an Orange Blossom Morning bun. The egg in the sandwich was cooked perfectly. The bun made the dish. It tasted like a brioche bun on the outside and a croissant on the inside. Nevertheless, the morning bun was the highlight. I have never eaten anything like it. It was like a muffin on the outside and croissant on the inside. In addition, the interior falls apart in chunks similar to a well made apple fritter. The orange blossom flavor was different and tasty. The frosting on top was very sweet. The bottom was some type of sugar fruity crumble. Whatever it was, it was amazing. In terms of uniqueness and taste, the morning bun rivals the best pastries I have eaten. The other breakfast dishes looked great too. I also enjoyed the Chrysmantium iced tea. It was very flowery: the way I like tea. If you are visiting and planning a trip to Boston and looking for recommendations (especially food), feel free to message me for my itinerary. You can also find the electronic copy through the link my profile. read more

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Sofra doesn't need me to write this review since they clearly already have the following to prove just how good this little spot is. You will be jolted to life the moment you walk in the door. The chaos will either make you feel alive or overwhelmed. (If you are the latter, this spot is not for you and that's ok. Get it to go!) You will feel like you are at a cafe somewhere in Turkey. The offerings are plenty. I had the kouign-amman, shakshuka, hummus with pita, cauliflower, muhammara, turkish tea latte and a turkish coffee. I went hard and fast. And I basically sang the entire time I ate. The staff is so friendly and is somehow able to remain calm amongst the chaos which is even more proof that the chaos is part of the charm and liveliness of this spot. The space is small so its definitely not the appropriate spot to post up with your best friend that you haven't seen for 5 years and discuss every major event in your life. I've only been on the weekend so maybe on a weekday it isn't as crowded. If you go, you will quickly add this place to your top spots in the city. You will know it's worth the trek from whichever corner you are traveling from. read more

If you know your turkish food, don't go here, this place is not authentic and they try to make it by adding underwhelming spices, raw dough pastries and food that lacks any kind of seasoning. We ordered the borek which lacked any flavor, and the dough was raw, and the lamb shawerma wasn't seasoned. Prices are higher than other places. The drinks menu looks interesting but I won't come back. I don't why pork is added to turkish sausages, turkish food is halal and pork never used in Turkish cuisine. read more

This place is AMAZING and always has a line to order. It is so fresh, healthy and delicious, that we find ourselves thinking about the food and craving it! I love the the spinach falafel, the earthquake cookies, and my family loves the chicken shawarma, they said it's like no other. Love this place. Can't wait to go again. read more

Everything I've tried here has been incredible. From their chai to their falafel to their incredible desserts, this place is an absolute treat. I recently tried some of their rose syrup in cold milk it was an amazing treat! read more

This place is so creative and delicious. From the turmeric latte to the orange blossom morning bun, breakfast is divine. But really anything is good at SOFRA. Pandemic takeout comes with a special heartwarming note from the chefs and quirky staff in the front of the house are lovable. read more

This place is so good. My wife was craving this place when she was pregnant and we found ourselfs here multiple times per week. I tried getting something different each visit. Top orders: Shakshuka Turkish breakfast Sausage roll Tahini donut Wouldn't order again, but good: Egg sandwich Moussaka Mint bread read more

A friend brought me take out from Sofra including the cheese borek, chicken tangine, and spinach and feta spanakopita. The chicken tangine was surprisingly delicious. The meat was perfectly cooked and tender, and I loved it the vegetables with olives and the couscous. The cheese borek was also excellent. And the spinach and feta spanakopita was also very good. The chicken was definitely the best; I was very impressed, and can't wait to check this place out in person. read more

Meze bar = off the chizz-ain. They have a slew of different dips, salads, and sauces, and the staff always remind me which ones are vegan. The last time I was there I got: -smoky eggplant with pinenuts -Moroccan style carrot salad -Brussels sprouts salad with barberries & walnuts -Muhammara--red pepper & walnut purée -squash skordalia with pepitas Everything is unbelievably flavorful. The squash skordalia was hummus-like, but somehow better. I never thought I would say anything was better than hummus, but what's done is done. The Muhammara is also a gem. After you leave you'll ultimately wish you could buy a 10 gallon tub of it to go home and bathe yourself in. Alas, that's not one of the size options. The space is small, so come prepared to wait for a table or take your order to go, but this cafe has the same amazing quality ingredients and flavor as Oleana. read more

SOFRA Bakery & Cafe - Mezze plate. Get. This. - Middle Eastern Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Aggravated that Sofra does not post their random closures on their website!! I went on a Saturday and there was a chalkboard out front saying closed for the day. As I was in the tiny parking lot, I saw at least 4 other cars drive up, get out and come back to drive off in the span of 15 minutes. I understand people have emergencies, but just post it on your website!! read more

There is a good American style restaurant. I like there so much. There is a fresh bread and food. read more

- BOTTOM LINE: Credit SOFRA for bringing casual Mediterranean to Cambridge, but given the influx of new places this place is no longer worth the slight trek to get to. Decent food and pastries but, when paired with underwhelming service and prices, leaves a lot to be desired. Also their menu doesn't really work on mobile. Bummer. - THE SPACE/GETTING HERE: It's only a ten min bus ride from Harvard and we've never had trouble finding parking on Mt. Auburn or Belmont. The space is teeeeeeny tinyyyy, and the outdoor space fills up quickly. Even if you've found a seat at the few tables or at the high communal tables, the line will be right on top of you. Combine that with the servers who are weaving through the crowd searching for you via the little number placards they give you when you order and you have mayhem. You can of course do takeout but that eliminates a good number of the tastier options they have. THE FOOD: The last time we came here, we ordered just a coffee, kouign amann, and a cheesy pastry. I think it took around 15 min waiting in the crowd to get our food - sort of. I say sort of because they came out to tell me they ran out of my cheesy pastry ("our cashiers have no way of knowing what we have left"...?) and I was strangely met with impatience when I asked them what other savory pastry they'd recommend. I ended up getting a sesame bagel. The kouign amann was good but small and the coffee was mediocre. Watertown boasts a lot of middle eastern food that can give you better for half the price. Time to explore! read more

I totally see the appeal, it's eclectic, the decor interesting, the space cozy. But the food is seriously over hyped and underwhelming. The pastries were stale, and the flavor of food is not well balanced. Dan and I had the chicken shawarma, the lamb wrap, a fruit pastry and the Persian spiced doughnut. The only thing that was remotely good was the doughnut. I would not recommend this place. read more

This place is pretty small and gets really crowded at lunch so keep that in mind. All the food I saw go by while I was waiting looked good. I got the Chicken Shawarma, which was really tasty. It was hard to choose just one baked good but I went with the Earthquake Cookie (kind of a brownie consistency covered in powdered sugar). - yum! I'd like to go back for breakfast and try the shakshuka. read more

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OK I really like this place. Yes it's kind of expensive but I love the selection of everything. Please try the vanilla rooibos latte, it will make your heart warm. But please, Sofra! get more seating! read more

We came here as a stop on our TV Foodie Road Trip through Boston. It was featured on Unique Sweets on Foodnetwork. It's a Turkish bakery, so I was expecting some really unique flavors. Eats I've never tried. Unfortunately I didn't care for any of it. Threw most of it out, not worth the calories. I couldn't get anyone to tell me what any of it was so maybe I chose bad things but I was guessing since they were not helpful. Now I'm sure the sandwiches and coffee are fine, I did not try those. Many people rave about this place so maybe it's me. I found it hard to find and very small and cramped. Sofra just didn't work for me but you never know if you found a gem unless you try it. read more

SOFRA Bakery & Cafe - A little extra Aleppo Pepper - Middle Eastern Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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