Sephardi kosher bakeries are relatively rare in New York City. But Brooklyn has a few of them.
That's because a sizeable community of Jews whose parents and grandparents fled from Aleppo, Syria and other parts of North Africa over 40 years ago still comprise a tight-knit community in the Midwood section of Brooklyn.
The tastes of these delicious pastries and cakes remain true to the ingredients of their countries of origin: you'll find figs and almonds, honey and pistachios aplenty.
1. Mansoura's Pastry (Midwood)
Baking has been this family's business for over 200 years, and Brooklyn is lucky to have Mansoura's Pastry shop. Long established in its current location, the sons of the original owner continue to make this family business a favorite for the local Syrian Jewish community in Midwood, and for visitors.
Get candied nuts, baklava, and the lasso-shaped biscuits called ka'ak to take home. Don't miss the flaky pastry with dates or pistachio, called ma'moul. Or, try the semolina-coconut-almond concoction called basbousa. It's all interesting, very sweet, and good.
Special kosher for Passover goods are available seasonally, of course.
They also ship.
- 515 Kings Highway in Midwood
- (718) 645-7977
- http://www.mansoura.com
- Sunday-Thursday 9 a.m.-5p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-4p.m., closed Saturdays. Closed Sundays in July and August.
2. Sola Bakery (Borough Park)
Come here for pistchio cookies and nutty, sweet pastries.
During Passover, you can also get almond crescents, macaroons, and sweet, kosher for Passover items made with walnuts, coconut, almonds and figs.
- 4218 12th Avenue, at 48th Street in Borough Park
- (718) 339-5857
Other great kosher bakeries in Brooklyn
