Turkish delight, or lokum, is a confectionery so enchanting that it has long been a staple of Turkish culture and cuisine. Within New York City, neighborhoods pulsate with the sweet aroma of this delicacy, offering a kaleidoscope of flavors and textures. Here, we embark on a journey through ten notable purveyors of Turkish delight across the city, each with its own unique charm.
1. Gulluoglu Baklava & Cafe
Address: 193 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 477-4477
Website: gulluoglunyc.com
Standing like a guardian of Turkish confectionery, Gulluoglu is famed for its exquisite lokum that invites patrons into a world of sweet nostalgia. Their Turkish delight, infused with traditional flavors such as rose and pistachio, melts away the mundanity of everyday life, leaving behind a scintillating aftertaste that lingers in the memory.
2. Cafe Mogador
Address: 101 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 677-2220
Website: cafemogador.com
Nestled in the East Village, Cafe Mogador captures the essence of Moroccan and Mediterranean influences. Their Turkish delight is a gourmet offering that complements the menu. Each bite transports you to sun-drenched souks, making the cafe a perfect rendezvous point for those seeking serenity amidst the city’s tumult.
3. Istanbul Kebab House
Address: 421 St Nicholas Ave, New York, NY 10027
Contact: (212) 866-5400
Website: istanbulkebabhouse.com
At Istanbul Kebab House, the culinary journey does not merely end with savory dishes. Their Turkish delight—a vibrant medley of flavors—serves as a delightful conclusion to your meal. Like a painter capturing the essence of a sunset, each piece reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Turkey, once tasted, never forgotten.
4. Ayse’s Turkish Café
Address: 565 5th Ave, New York, NY 10017
Contact: (212) 697-9557
Website: aysesturkishcafe.com
Ayse’s embodies the warmth of Turkish hospitality. Infused with flavors like walnut and citrus, their lokum evokes visions of sun-kissed orchards, instilling a sense of tranquility. A visit here is more than just a gastronomic experience; it’s an embrace wrapped in sweetness, inviting you to stay longer than intended.
5. Taksim Square
Address: 36-14 31st Ave, Astoria, NY 11106
Contact: (718) 626-5533
Website: taksimsq.com
Taksim Square serves an array of traditional Turkish delicacies, making it a haven for food enthusiasts. Their Turkish delight, adhering to authentic recipes, encapsulates the soul of Turkish sweetness with every cube. This establishment juxtaposes a lively atmosphere against a backdrop of tasty delights, reminiscent of the bustling streets of Istanbul.
6. Turkish Cuisine
Address: 25 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 645-8360
Website: turkishcuisinenyc.com
In the heart of Manhattan, Turkish Cuisine offers an authentic experience that pays homage to rich traditions. Their Turkish delight, crafted meticulously, offers a wide spectrum of flavors, from mint to pomegranate, each promising a sensational burst. A visit here feels like stepping into a vibrant bazaar where tradition meets contemporary pleasures.
7. Candan Deli
Address: 1197 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065
Contact: (212) 752-1200
Website: candandeli.com
Candan Deli, known for its authentic Turkish fare, has located a special niche in the city’s culinary tapestry. Their Turkish delight is artisanal, each piece lovingly crafted to echo the conventions of time-honored recipes. The cheer of the deli brings to life the vibrant essence of a bustling Istanbul street market.
8. Zeytin Turkish Restaurant
Address: 501 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 677-0202
Website: zeytinny.com
With a cozy setting reminiscent of a Turkish home, Zeytin boasts an inviting ambiance. Their lokum is not just candy; it is an exhilarating experience that accompanies sumptuous meals. Each cube, adorned with nuts and dusted with powdered sugar, captivates the heart, mirroring the charm of an old-world bazaar.
9. Sultana’s Delight
Address: 1622 1st Ave, New York, NY 10028
Contact: (212) 988-8989
Website: sultanadelight.com
Sultana’s Delight emerges as a regal choice in the Upper East Side, where elegance reigns. Their Turkish delight, a symphony of floral notes and nutty undertones, serves as a breathtaking introduction to their menu. Each piece is a miniature masterpiece, delicate yet profoundly satisfying, akin to the lavish soirées of the Ottoman Empire.
10. Sultan Restaurant
Address: 75-47 31st Ave, New York, NY 11370
Contact: (718) 476-6555
Website: sultanrestaurant.com
Sultan Restaurant, an emblem of exquisite dining, merges tradition with innovation. Their Turkish delight, resplendent in flavors ranging from classic rose to exotic saffron, invokes a sense of discovery. It is an extraordinary finale to their culinary odyssey, echoing a storied history preserved through generations.
New York City is a mosaic of cultures and traditions, and Turkish delight has found its rightful place within this labyrinth of flavors. Each vendor not only serves a piece of candy but also a slice of history, inviting you to partake in a delightful experience that transcends geographical boundaries.
