Sofra Bakery & Cafe is a Middle Eastern bakery, cafe, and retail store in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Located at 1 Belmont St, the business specializes in sweet and savory interpretations of traditional cuisines from Turkey, Lebanon, and Greece, offering items such as Turkish breakfasts, savory lamb shawarma, flatbreads, Middle Eastern cold salads, spreads from the Meze Bar, and flaky morning buns with orange blossom glaze. The cafe also features a retail section with house-made preserves, prepared foods, carefully-sourced pantry staples, and signature spice blends. Founded in 2008 by Executive Chef Ana Sortun and Executive Pastry Chef Maura Kilpatrick as part of the Oleana Restaurant Group, Sofra has become known for its seasonal, scratch-made approach and commitment to sustainable agriculture and local food artisans. The business serves the Cambridge area and surrounding neighborhoods, and maintains a strong reputation with a 4.60 rating based on customer reviews.
Sofra Bakery & Cafe is deeply rooted in the philosophy of the word “sofra,” a Turkish term meaning a special table setting for food or a communal meal. The concept is reflected in the menu’s diverse offerings, from traditional breakfasts to contemporary takes on regional dishes. The kitchen is led by Executive Chef Pri Paige, who brings a background in seasonal, farm-to-table cooking and a passion for global flavors, overseeing food production across both the Cambridge and Allston locations. The pastry program is guided by Executive Pastry Chef Nik Mastalerz, whose experience includes work at Michelin-starred establishments. The cafe emphasizes personal relationships with food purveyors, many of whom are considered part of the Sofra family, and supports local and international artisans through its in-store marketplace.
Sofra Bakery & Cafe is situated on Belmont Street in Cambridge, just a short walk from the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway and Sacred Heart School. The location is near Mount Auburn Street and the public artwork known as Turtle, placing it within the Mount Auburn neighborhood. The cafe’s presence in this vibrant Cambridge area reflects its role as a community gathering space rooted in shared meals and quality ingredients.
With a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, sustainability, and cultural authenticity, Sofra Bakery & Cafe stands out as a trusted destination for those seeking thoughtfully prepared, globally inspired baked goods and meals in Cambridge. Its enduring presence and consistent quality have made it a beloved local institution.