Kunafa Cafes in Delhi NCR & the Sweet History Behind the Dessert

There’s something magical about a dessert that manages to be rich yet delicate, crunchy on the outside yet irresistibly gooey inside, all while bursting with flavors from across cultures. Kunafa, also spelled Kanafeh or Knafeh, has quickly earned its place as one of the most talked-about Middle Eastern sweets in Delhi NCR, luring food lovers from every corner of the city.

At Dilli Ki Galliyaan, we’ve explored its finest versions across the region, bringing you the ultimate guide to where you can taste this decadent delight. Whether you’ve savored it on a trip to the Middle East or are discovering its charm for the first time here, kunafa is far more than just a sweet treat; it’s a centuries-old tradition, a celebration of craftsmanship and flavor, served beautifully on a plate.

The Origins of Kunafa

Kunafa’s history dates back hundreds of years and is rooted in the Levant region, with origins often linked to Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. It’s traditionally made with shredded filo pastry or fine semolina dough, layered with cheese or clotted cream, soaked in fragrant sugar syrup, and topped with crushed pistachios.

Folklore says kunafa was first prepared in the royal kitchens of the Umayyad dynasty in the 7th century, designed to help rulers and warriors stay full during Ramadan fasts. Over time, it evolved into a celebratory dessert enjoyed during special occasions, often paired with strong Arabic coffee or mint tea.

Kunafa Comes to Delhi NCR

Delhi NCR’s cosmopolitan food scene has embraced global flavors with open arms, and kunafa is no exception. From high-end Middle Eastern restaurants to cozy dessert cafés, you can now savor fresh kunafa right here without hopping on a flight to Dubai or Amman.

The local adaptation often blends authentic techniques with a hint of Indian flair, think cardamom-infused syrup or saffron-tinted cream, while still keeping the golden, crunchy pastry and soft, melty center that make kunafa so irresistible.

If you’re wondering where to find the best ones, Dilli Ki Galliyaan has you covered. On our website, we explore the city’s most tempting food spots, and when it comes to kunafa, we’ve hunted down the cafés that deliver an experience as close to the Middle East as possible, with a dash of Delhi charm.

Popular Kunafa Cafes in Delhi NCR

1. Zoe’s Bakery & Café, South Delhi

Authentic Palestinian-style kunafa made fresh to order with creamy cheese and just the right amount of sweetness.

2. Habibi Café, Gurugram

Middle Eastern ambiance, falafel platters, and a pistachio kunafa that’s worth every bite.

3. Kunafa World, Noida

A dessert paradise with traditional cheese kunafa, Nutella-filled versions, and even mango-infused creations.

4. Baking Bad, Delhi

Known for fusion desserts, try their kunafa with kulfi ice cream for a desi twist.

5. Al-Bake, New Friends Colony

Famous for shawarmas, but their kunafa is a hidden treat, simple, authentic, and delicious.

What Makes Kunafa Special

A perfect kunafa should have a golden, crisp exterior, a soft and cheesy (or creamy) interior, syrup infused with rose water or orange blossom, and a generous sprinkle of pistachios. It’s a textural and flavor contrast that’s hard to resist.

At Dilli Ki Galliyaan, we believe food isn’t just about taste, it’s about stories, cultures, and experiences. Kunafa is the perfect example of how a dish can travel across continents and find a loving home in Delhi’s vibrant food culture.

Final Bite

Kunafa is more than just a dessert; it’s a bridge between traditions, flavors, and communities. So the next time your sweet cravings hit, explore Delhi NCR’s best kunafa cafés with Dilli Ki Galliyaan as your guide, because we know exactly where the golden crunch meets the perfect melt.