Simurgh Bakery & Cafe

Simurgh Bakery & Cafe in Emeryville, CA, is a vibrant destination for those craving authentic Turkish and Mediterranean flavors in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. This charming restaurant seamlessly blends a traditional bakery with a full-service cafe, specializing in halal dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Turkey.

From the moment you step in, the aroma of freshly baked breads greets you—especially their exquisite Simit, the iconic Turkish sesame bagel, and the incredibly fluffy pide bread that pairs perfectly with their breakfast offerings. Customers repeatedly rave about these breads, calling them a rare authentic treasure in the Bay Area that instantly transports you to the bustling streets of Istanbul.

The menu is a delightful journey through Turkish cuisine, showcasing both familiar favorites and some lesser-known gems. Start your day with their Shakshuka/Menemen, a luscious blend of scrambled eggs, tomatoes, and sweet peppers served with warm, soft pide bread—comforting and robust, it’s a brunch dish that feels like a warm hug. Or sample the Breakfast Simit Sandwich stuffed with savory fillings like cured beef or avocado, each bite perfectly seasoned and satisfying.

Lunch and dinner at Simurgh are equally compelling. The Istanbul Plate is a palette-pleaser featuring assorted kofte kebabs, oven-baked potatoes, and a medley of smoky grilled shishito peppers accompanied by housemade ajvar and labneh that bursts with rich, tangy flavors. For something uniquely filling, the Cevapi Rice Bowl and Sabich Sandwich offer vibrant, layered tastes with ingredients like fried eggplant, hard boiled eggs, and bright herbaceous sauces such as ajvar, amba, and zhug. Each dish is crafted to highlight the spices and textures that define Mediterranean cooking.

No meal here is complete without indulging in their bakery’s signature desserts. The Baklava is thick and rich with perfectly crisp layers that shatter delightfully with each bite, balanced by lush, honeyed sweetness—a real standout that customers call "best ever." Equally heavenly is the Honey Cake with Berries, which pairs beautifully with their carefully brewed Turkish tea or the enchanting, fragrant Turkish coffee.

The atmosphere at Simurgh is warm and inviting, enhanced by attentive staff who patiently guide you through the menu, making it an ideal spot for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Though the seating is limited, it only adds to the intimate, neighborhood vibe that keeps locals coming back again and again.

Whether you're drawn by the fresh baked breads, the robust and nuanced flavors of authentic Turkish dishes, or the decadent desserts and perfect teas, Simurgh Bakery & Cafe offers an unparalleled culinary escape that feels lovingly handcrafted and genuinely memorable.