Our Story
Honouring Palestinian heritage through handcrafted sweets and coffee
Welcome to Kanafani Sweets & Coffee, where the timeless traditions of Palestine are brought to life in every bite and sip. More than a café, Kanafani is a celebration of heritage, passion, and community.
The Founders
Kanafani was founded by Dr. Fersan Marei and Ali Youssef, bringing together a shared love for heritage and exceptional craft.
Dr. Fersan Marei - a licensed dentist and educator - was born and raised in Nablus, Palestine, a city celebrated worldwide for its iconic knafeh. His partner, Ali Youssef, of Palestinian origin, refined his skills as a knafeh Chef under the name Knafeh King, creating memorable desserts for events and gatherings.
United by their roots and vision, they set out to introduce the authentic taste of Nablus to their new home in Canada. From slices and cupcakes to trays made for every occasion, they ensure that each piece reflects true Palestinian authenticity and the flavors they grew up with.
The Meaning Behind Our Name
The name "Kanafani" was chosen with intention and care. In Arabic, a kanafani is someone who prepares knafeh - a reflection of our dedication to this craft and our commitment to preserving the culinary traditions of Nablus.
The name also pays tribute to Ghassan Kanafani, the celebrated Palestinian writer whose work symbolizes resilience, identity, and freedom. This dual inspiration honors our cultural roots while allowing us to share them proudly with the world.
500 Years of Tradition
At Kanafani, the star of the menu is Knafeh—a dish that symbolizes joy, togetherness, and tradition. Our signature offering, Nablus Knafeh, represents over five centuries of culinary excellence. This iconic Palestinian dessert, with its golden semolina crust, sweet cheese filling, and aromatic syrup, has been perfected across generations in the ancient city of Nablus.
We honor this legacy by preparing our Knafeh using traditional methods, ensuring every bite carries the authentic taste that has made it beloved across the world. Known for its unique flavors and textures, our Knafeh is a tribute to the culinary excellence of Nablus.
Premium Coffee, Expertly Crafted
Beyond our renowned knafeh, we are equally passionate about specialty coffee. Each cup is crafted by skilled baristas who understand that coffee is more than a beverage - it's a ritual, a moment of pause, and a meaningful connection.
From traditional Turkish coffee to modern espresso creations, every drink reflects our commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Every item on our menu tells a story - one of tradition, passion, and pride.
Our Commitment
Authentic Ingredients
We choose only premium ingredients and prepare everything fresh, every single day - honoring traditional recipes while upholding uncompromising quality.
Cultural Heritage
Each dish is a tribute to Palestinian culinary traditions, thoughtfully shared with the diverse communities that make up the GTA.
Expert Craftsmanship
From classic Palestinian desserts to modern specialty coffee, our team blends time-honored techniques with contemporary skill to ensure excellence in every creation.
Community Connection
We believe in genuine hospitality. Our cafés are welcoming spaces where people gather, cultures connect, and stories are shared over good food and good company.
At Kanafani Sweets & Coffee, we invite you to experience the flavors of our homeland - a journey of heritage, warmth, and the true taste of Palestine.
Visit Us
Discover the flavors of Palestine at our Mississauga and Scarborough cafés - crafted fresh, served warm, and made with heritage.