Yafa Sweets — Restaurant in Hazelwood

Let me be real with you—I only ended up at Yafa Sweets because I was there for a photoshoot. But honestly? That might’ve been the best “random” food stop I’ve made in a while. I’d heard of them before and always meant to go, but you know how it is—you keep saying "later," and later never comes. Well, it finally did, and I’m really glad it did.

From the moment you walk in, the place feels welcoming. Everyone’s smiling, friendly, and ready to talk your ear off about their sweets if you let them. Got questions? They’ll answer them. Not sure what to get? They’ll help you out. It’s the kind of service that makes you feel like you’re not just another customer.

Now, I’m no stranger to Middle Eastern desserts. Grew up eating most of these classics, so I know what good ones taste like—and what total misses look like. What I love about Yafa is that they respect the traditional stuff but also keep things fresh with some modern twists and seasonal items. You can tell they're paying attention.

After that first visit, I went back a few more times (okay, fine, multiple times) just because I wanted to try more stuff. And here’s the bottom line: whatever you order, you won’t be disappointed. No joke. This place is hands-down a must-check-out if you're into sweets—or even if you're just looking for something that tastes like comfort.

If you're going for the first time or need an excuse to go back, here are my top three picks:

First, the Mutabbak. They make it fresh to order, so it comes out hot, steamy, and still got that pan-fresh vibe. Then they pour on the “Kater” syrup—it’s sweet, but not too much, which I really appreciate. The cheese inside? Melty, soft, everything you want. Tasted so close to the ones we used to have back home, and trust me, that’s saying a lot.

Then there’s the Halawet el Jubun. This one’s tricky to get right. So many places mess it up—too dry, way too much rose water, or just plain bland. Not Yafa. Theirs is delicate. The flavor is balanced, the texture is spot-on, and even though I’m not a fan of rose water, theirs is light enough that it actually enhances the whole thing instead of ruining it. My only gripe? It’s usually sold out by the time I get there, so maybe plan accordingly.

And of course, the K’nafa. Oh man, this is where they shine. The cheese is perfect—gooey, rich, exactly how it should be. And the knafa itself? Crispy edges, golden, warm… I personally go for the khishna style because I’m all about that crunchy layer on the bottom. Total dreamboat of a dessert.

I could literally go on forever about the other stuff I’ve tried and loved, but I’ll stop here—for now. If you're anywhere near the area and haven’t checked this place out yet, do yourself a favor and go. You won’t regret it.

Oh, and guess what? I definitely plan on going back again soon because I just heard they added something new to the menu—the Dubai Strawberry Cup. Sounds fun, a little fancy, and totally worth trying. Once I get my hands on it, I’ll let you know what I think.

Stay...

Upon a most fortunate venture beside the WorldWide International Food Market, I did chance upon a hidden treasure: Yafa Sweets. It is no mere shop, but a splendid haven where the noble art of confectionery is celebrated with great devotion and care.

More than twenty varieties of desserts, each made fresh to order, present themselves like jewels to the discerning eye, accompanied by an array of ice creams most pleasing to the senses. As a token of their gracious hospitality, the kind proprietors offered us a sample of Saudi Arabian coffee — a brew most singular, with a refreshing mint-like cardamom note that danced upon the tongue in a manner both rare and delightful.

Their pistachios, imported from the fertile lands of Türkiye, bestow upon their baklava a richness and excellence beyond compare, elevating it to the finest in all of Saint Louis.

The service was rendered with true warmth and attentiveness, making one feel not merely a customer, but an honoured guest. The sitting area, quaint and inviting, bids the visitor to linger awhile in sweet contentment.

I am most heartily glad to have discovered Yafa Sweets, and shall assuredly return, bringing with me all those who cherish the finer pleasures of life. Seek it out, and thou shalt not be...

This was my first time visiting Yafa Sweets, and I can’t say enough good things. The staff was incredibly kind and welcoming, taking the time to walk me through their offerings and help me pick out a variety of sweets since I wasn’t too familiar with many of them. Their warmth and generosity alone made the visit memorable, and the sweets were truly exceptional.

Every item I tried was rich, flavorful, and clearly made with care. The baklava was some of the best I’ve ever had: perfectly flaky, balanced, and just the right amount of sweet. One standout was Kunafa Naama, something I’d never had before. The flavor was so unique and delicious that we couldn’t even wait to get home; we tore into it right there in the parking lot.

The shop is bright and inviting, with a gorgeous display that makes it hard to choose, in the best way. We left with a box full of treats, and not a single bite disappointed. We’re already planning to go back, and next time we’re getting a lot more.

North County is lucky to have a place like this, not just for the high-quality, authentic desserts but for the heart and hospitality that come with them. Don’t sleep...