The story
Steeped in history, this legendary dessert shop in Latakia has been a local staple since 1899. It remains a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Syrian tradition, anchored by a long-standing reputation for quality and craftsmanship.
The shop is celebrated for serving what is widely considered one of the best versions of kunafeh in the region. As creator Mark Wiens noted during his visit, the dessert is defined by its exceptional texture, featuring a perfectly crispy, vermicelli-like dough paired with a rich, melted cheese center. Whether you are a local or a traveler passing through, this historic spot offers a quintessential experience that honors the classic preparation of this beloved sweet.
Synthesised by AI from every creator’s review. First reviewed 2024.
Most-loved dishes
AI summary of what 1 dish mentions say about the food
At Kunafeh Shop 1899, the singular, most-praised kunafeh delivers a perfectly crisp, cheese-pull experience. The overall vibe is one of pure, unpretentious indulgence, a must-try for dessert lovers.
“Oh, you hear the crispiness, the melted cheese underneath it — it's just oozing with cheese. Kunafeh is one of the kings of all desserts. Huge platter, cheese on the bottom, and there are many different variations around this entire region, but this version I think is one of the best with the very thin dough strands almost like vermicelli on top cooked until crispy and then just doused in syrup — sugary syrup. It's the ultimate melting pot of melted cheese and crispy syrup. Look at the way the cheese is just melting, so oozy. Stretchy melted cheese, sweet syrup, crispy noodle strands on the top. I've had a little bit of a sweet overdose, but that is a really good kunafeh. It dates back to 1899 — they are one of the original ones doing the thin dough kind of like noodles almost like vermicelli on top. I'm not a huge fan of sweets, but that is an absolute must.”
What creators say
1 creator has covered Kunafeh Shop (1899). Most active: Mark Wiens
- Mark WiensLoved
Seafood in Syria!! 🐟 FRIED FISH + Million Dollar View - Mediterranean Sea, Syria!! · @ 32:43
This legendary kunafeh shop in Latakia, dating back to 1899, serves one of the best versions of the dessert with crispy vermicelli-like dough and melted cheese.
Dishes mentioned
Kunafeh
Oh, you hear the crispiness, the melted cheese underneath it — it's just oozing with cheese. Kunafeh is one of the kings of all desserts. Huge platter, cheese on the bottom, and there are many different variations around this entire region, but this version I think is one of the best with the very thin dough strands almost like vermicelli on top cooked until crispy and then just doused in syrup — sugary syrup. It's the ultimate melting pot of melted cheese and crispy syrup. Look at the way the cheese is just melting, so oozy. Stretchy melted cheese, sweet syrup, crispy noodle strands on the top. I've had a little bit of a sweet overdose, but that is a really good kunafeh. It dates back to 1899 — they are one of the original ones doing the thin dough kind of like noodles almost like vermicelli on top. I'm not a huge fan of sweets, but that is an absolute must.
