The story of Knafeh Cafe is the story of a family carrying the flavors of home across an ocean — and choosing to share them with the world.
In the ancient souk of Nablus — a city nestled in the hills of the West Bank in Palestine — Knafeh has been made the same way for over 100 years. The recipe hasn't changed. The cheese, the filo, the floral syrup.
Nablus is to Knafeh what Naples is to pizza. The city's bakers (the Kanafanji) are legendary craftsmen, their hands moving with the muscle memory of decades, creating this golden masterpiece over open flames in copper trays.
"Every morning in Nablus, the smell of fresh Knafeh fills the old city. It's not just breakfast — it's a ritual, a gathering, a moment of community." — Palestinian Food Historian
The Abusair family carried that ritual, that sacred knowledge, with them when they came to California. And they shared it.
Long before Knafeh Cafe had a storefront, there was a family kitchen. The Abusair family had been perfecting their Knafeh recipe for generations — the same hand techniques, the same balance of sweetness, the same quality of cheese.
When they arrived in Southern California, their neighbors, friends, and community kept asking: "Can you make your Knafeh for my gathering? For my wedding? For my company event?" The demand grew organically — fueled purely by taste and love.
In February 2013, Knafeh Cafe opened its doors at 866 S Brookhurst St in Anaheim. What started as a family passion became Anaheim's most beloved dessert destination — and Orange County's go-to Middle Eastern sweet shop.
The Abusair family develops their signature Knafeh recipe in Nablus, Palestine — a tradition that would travel across continents and generations.
Word of the Abusair family's exceptional Knafeh spreads beyond Nablus. The recipe expands to the city of Jerusalem, earning a devoted following among locals and travelers alike.
The family relocates to Southern California, bringing their traditions and recipe with them. A new home, but the same authentic flavors.
February 2013, the doors open in Anaheim. The community falls in love immediately — what started as word-of-mouth became a destination.
Hundreds of weddings, corporate events, and private parties across Southern California. The recipe that started in 1928 now brings joy to thousands.
These are the principles that guide every tray of Knafeh we make.
We never compromise on the original recipe. No shortcuts, no substitutes. The real deal — every time.
Every customer is treated like a guest in our home. Warmth and hospitality are part of every interaction.
We're proud to serve both our Arab-American community and introduce Knafeh to everyone who walks through the door.
Only the finest ingredients — real Nabulsi cheese, premium pistachios, fragrant rose water. Nothing artificial, ever.
Visit us in Anaheim, order online, or bring the live Knafeh experience to your next event.