This 100-Year-Old Bakery in Damascus Is Now Also a Cozy Reading Spot

Some places are more than just cafés or bakeries; they have a story behind them. That’s exactly what Al Manhal Bakery and Books in Old Damascus feels like. It’s a bakery that’s over 100 years old, but today it’s been brought back to life in a completely new way. Located on Straight Street near Al Buzuriyah, Al Manhal is now a bakery, café, and library all in one space. You can stop by for fresh bread baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, grab a coffee, read a book, or just enjoy the calm atmosphere.

How Did It Start?

The idea came from baker Brent Stewart and Syrian journalist Asser Khattab. Brent wanted to create a project in Syria that combines good baking with real job opportunities, while Aser wanted to create a simple cultural space where people could gather, read, and have conversations in a relaxed setting.

Together, they turned Al Manhal into a place that mixes food, books, and community in a really warm and welcoming way.

A Historic Oven Back to Life

One of the coolest things about Al Manhal is its old wood-fired oven, which hadn’t been used since the 1970s. The team restored it and started baking in it again, giving the place a real, authentic feel.

What’s on the Menu?

At Al Manhal, you’ll find sourdough bread made with natural fermentation, along with manakeesh, pastries, sweets, cakes, cookies, and specialty coffee.

People who visited the spot have been talking about the fresh food, cozy atmosphere, and the love and care put into every detail.

Books, Reading, and Events

Books are a huge part of the idea here. The space offers both new and secondhand books, and visitors can either buy them or borrow them through a simple, free borrowing system.

Al Manhal also plans to host reading clubs, book signings, discussions, and cultural events, making it more than just a bakery or café.

More Than Just a Bakery

What makes Al Manhal special is the community side of the project, too. The space creates job opportunities in a welcoming environment, and the team includes former detainees and people with disabilities.

Why Visit?

Because it’s one of those places that feels different the second you walk in. It’s peaceful, full of history, and has a really warm atmosphere. Whether you go for the bread, coffee, books, or just the experience itself, Al Manhal is definitely worth visiting in Old Damascus.

Location: Damascus, Al-Mustaqeem Street
Working Days: From Saturday to Thursday.
Hours: From 12 PM to 6 PM.

Check out the Old Damascus section on our website for more!