The Place: I believe Diljān had those crazy long lines when they first opened, but they have now settled into being a true neighborhood spot on an unassuming side street in Brooklyn Heights. If you didn’t know this spot was here, you really would miss it. The interior counter is a little dark and oddly shaped feeling a bit like a hotel lobby, but the tempting unique pastries and friendly staff make it much warmer.
This is an Afghan bakery from the team behind Little Flower Café in Astoria. That warm coffee shop also has some killer breakfast sandwiches and rose water laced doughnuts. Here the focus is bread and pastries (both sweet and savory), with deep roots to Afghan cuisine.
The Dish: While there are things that look remarkably similar to a danish or croissant, the spread is almost all new and fresh for those not familiar with Afghan pastries. The one recommended to me for my first visit was the Sheer Pira, which actually refers to the nutty decadent milk fudge that is stuffed inside this beautiful pastry alongside a pistachio frangipane. While it flakes a bit like a croissant, the pastry is ultimately softer and denser like a doughnut. On top is some luscious vanilla cream and more flecks of pistachios. While most new hip bakeries are trying out the usual colorful croissants and cinnamon rolls, Diljān is doing something different and are succeeding. Price: $10
| DILJĀN BAKERY |
| 330 Hicks Street (between Atlantic Avenue and State Street), Brooklyn Heights |
| Instagram: @diljanbakery |
