Diljān

Tucked away on a quiet corner of Brooklyn Heights, Diljān is one of those places that makes you wonder how something so good could fit in such a small space. This Afghan bakery, born from a collaboration between the team behind Little Flower Cafe and baker Bryan Ford, has quickly become a neighborhood treasure for anyone who appreciates thoughtfully crafted breads and pastries.

The star of the show is undoubtedly the naan, which arrives so fresh it practically steams when you step outside. Pair it with one of their house-made cream cheeses—perhaps the savory beef bacon and scallion or the surprisingly delightful sour cherry—and you’ve got a snack that outshines what most bagel shops offer. The Saffron Shah is another standout: a flaky, crescent-shaped pastry hiding an almost obscene amount of sunny saffron cream beneath its almond-studded exterior.

What makes Diljān special is how it blurs the line between sweet and savory. Take the lamb samosa: it’s covered in powdered sugar and wrapped in gently sweetened dough, but bite in and you’re met with perfectly spiced meat. The halwa sticky bun manages to capture the essence of an almond croissant’s buttery center while maintaining the satisfying stickiness of a classic cinnamon roll.

With a menu this small and a space this cozy, the only logical approach is to order everything. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast on the go or looking for an afternoon treat, this little bakery delivers big on flavor and creativity.