Oklava Cafe

The oklava, a traditional wooden rolling pin for stretching filo dough to a paper-thin consistency, is essential to the art of baklava. This single tool also encapsulates the purpose of Oklava Cafe in San Francisco: bringing the heritage of Turkish pastry and food into the lively pace of a modern food hall. Located within Saluhall, this outpost expands on its sister cafe, combining an authentic Turkish coffee program and a vast pastry selection with a full savory bill of fare designed for all-day dining. The project comes from the established team behind the city’s Turquaz restaurant, representing a culmination of their expertise. The counter is a testament to the versatility of filo, showcasing a collection of baklava in various forms, from squares packed with walnuts to layered triangles of bright pistachio and specialty shapes filled with chocolate. These sweets, whose recipes originate in Turkey, are finished in-house to preserve traditional flavor. Beyond baklava, the selection often includes other regional classics. Among them are künefe, a cheese-filled pastry soaked in syrup, and katmer, a crisp, flaky pancake. The beverage service is just as dedicated, offering traditionally prepared Turkish coffee alongside contemporary creations like pistachio and baklava lattes. The San Francisco location is also distinguished by its expanded savory kitchen. The kitchen has become known for its exploration of the casual, fulfilling breads central to Turkish food culture. Signature items include pide, the boat-shaped bread with fillings like spiced sujuk sausage or melted cheese, and simit, the sesame-crusted rings reminiscent of an Istanbul street corner. For a more substantial meal, heartier grain bowls are available, topped with grilled salmon or kofte meatballs. Another staple is lahmacun, a thin, crispy bread spread with minced meat and herbs, offering a comprehensive taste of the region for anything from a quick bite to a complete lunch.