Helvaci Ali Turkish Desserts & Cafe — Restaurant in Paterson

Helvacı Ali – A Hidden Turkish Delight in Peterson!

We recently stumbled upon Helvacı Ali at the Peterson location, and wow — what an unexpected gem! As someone who appreciates traditional desserts and Mediterranean flavors, this place absolutely blew me away. From the moment we walked in, the sweet aroma of roasted tahini, pistachio, and fresh semolina welcomed us like an old friend.

Let’s start with the presentation — everything was spotless and beautifully organized. The glass displays were filled with rows of freshly cut helva, baklava, pistachio-filled delights, and Turkish coffee paraphernalia. You can tell right away that this isn’t just a dessert shop — it’s a place built on tradition, quality, and pride.

We ordered the classic tahini helva, the cocoa marble helva, and the pistachio version (which was our personal favorite — rich, nutty, and just melts in your mouth). And Turkish CoffeeEach variety was dense but not dry, sweet but not overly sugary. They’ve nailed that perfect balance that many helva shops struggle with.

They also offered freshly brewed Turkish tea and coffee, and the service was warm and genuine — the staff actually took time to explain the origins of each helva style and even offered small samples. It felt more like visiting a friend’s kitchen than a retail store.

The ambiance is elegant but cozy, with Turkish design elements, traditional copper trays, and subtle lighting. It’s a great place to relax after a meal, or to grab some beautifully packaged treats to take home or gift someone.

We ended up buying a gift box with mixed helva and nuts, and the packaging alone was stunning — perfect for special occasions or just treating yourself.

Final Thoughts:

Helvacı Ali at Peterson is not just a dessert stop — it’s an experience. Whether you’re Turkish or just someone who loves trying unique sweets, this place is a must-visit. The quality of ingredients, attention to detail, and welcoming staff make it a 5-star experience. I’ll absolutely be returning — and next time, I’m bringing...

This weekend I visited the newest spot in town, Helvaci Ali. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted by an inviting atmosphere that set the perfect tone for the experience. One day out of the weekend wasn't enough for me, I HAD to visit twice - trust me when I say it'll leave you wanting more!

During my visits I tried the cheesecake with Lotus helva glazed over, a Lotus flavored iced latte and the Carmel Coffee flavored helva with ice cream - everything was absolutely delicious. When I tell you not one crumb was left on my plate... As a coffee and sweets lover, this is now my favorite spot to stop in and grab a cup of coffee and satisfy my sweet cravings.

It’s clear that the team takes great pride in every detail, from the quality of ingredients to the presentation. Great service and experience.

If you're looking for a modern/cozy spot to unwind, indulge in amazing desserts, and sip on some seriously great coffee, I can't recommend Helvaci Ali enough. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this place is a...

Helvacı Ali Turkish Dessert & Café is a true taste of Türkiye right here in town! The desserts are authentic, fresh, and beautifully presented — especially their famous tahini halva. Each bite is rich, perfectly balanced, and made with real care. The Turkish tea and coffee are just as they should be — strong, flavorful, and served with a smile. The café has a cozy and elegant atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with friends or family. The staff are always welcoming and take the time to explain the desserts if you’re new to Turkish sweets. Whether you’re craving something traditional or just want to enjoy a peaceful moment with a cup of tea, Helvacı Ali is an amazing spot. It truly feels like a little piece of Istanbul — sweet, warm, and...