A popular Somerville bakery and café is preparing to open a second location in the heart of Davis Square.
Yafa Bakery & Café is expanding into the former Posto space at 187 Elm Street, according to a report from the Cambridge Somerville Independent. Founder Abdulla Awad told the publication that the new location will join—rather than replace—Yafa’s existing café at 594 Somerville Avenue.
The Elm Street storefront has been vacant since Posto relocated to Assembly Square in November 2024, following 13 years at the Davis Square address. The space has a long history as a home for local eateries, including Steve’s Ice Cream, Carberry’s Bakery & Coffee House, and O’Naturals.
Founded in June 2022, Yafa Bakery & Café specializes in Palestinian-inspired sweet and savory pastries, including assorted baklava, creamy kunafah, savory manaqeesh flatbreads, napoli, donuts, stuffed and novelty dates, and spinach and cheese rolls. Beyond its pastry selection, the bakery serves sandwiches, dips, small plates, and specialty drinks. Its menu blends traditional Palestinian favorites with creative, contemporary offerings, all reflecting the bakery’s “Artfully Delicious” motto.
“At Yafa Bakery & Café, we bring the flavors, stories, and spirit of Palestinian heritage to life through every carefully crafted creation,” reads the bakery’s website. “Yafa is a Palestinian-owned bakery founded by Abdulla Awad, whose vision is rooted in preserving and sharing the culinary traditions passed down through generations. Inspired by his mother’s exceptional cooking, Abdulla has reimagined these cherished recipes with a modern twist, blending authenticity with artistic flair.”
According to the Independent, Awad was at the Elm Street property on September 11 to check out the space and expressed appreciation for the community’s interest in Yafa’s expansion. Staff confirmed Tuesday that the second location is still in the works, though additional details—including an opening date—were not immediately available.
What Now Boston has reached out to Awad for more information about Yafa Bakery & Café’s upcoming location and will share specifics as they become available. In the meantime, hungry locals can visit Yafa’s existing Somerville Avenue location and follow @yafabakerycafe on social media for updates on what’s coming to Davis Square.
