Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese treats are in full supply at this Cambridge bakery/café, a smaller, casual sibling to Oleana and Sarma, and just the ticket when you need to quickly satisfy a craving for owner Ana Sortun’s Mediterranean cooking. The aromas of Middle Eastern spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and coriander will greet you as you walk in the door.
Vibe: There's nothing particularly spectacular about the decor at Sofra. It's a rather typical corner bakery with lunch-counter-line vibes. But the waft of delicious pastries baking in the back and a friendly staff make Sofra instantly warm and welcoming. Chartreuse walls, floor-to-ceiling shelves featuring cute specialty grocery items, and a refrigerator case with prepacked salads, hummus, vegetables, and other vibrantly colored items add pops of color. Seating can be found at a collection of high tops and window counter seats. There's also a cozy nook where you'll find Turkish textiles draped over a banquette and stools.
Food: Gozelme and shawarma, börek and spanakopita, fatteh and fava…you might as well try them all. But save room for sweets, because the almond rose cake is heavenly, and the tahini-brown butter donut (only available on weekends) is a must.
Drink: Sofra offers all the regular espresso-based coffee drinks, plus an extra-zippy Turkish coffee. Hot teas and a variety of iced tea drinks and lemonades, chais, and a golden turmeric latte round out the beverage offerings.
Time Out tip: Go during a downtime—between breakfast and lunch, or just after the lunch crowds leave—to experience Sofra at its homiest.