Calgary’s hidden gem, Arya Bakery & Market, unlocks a world of Persian flavours.
This family-run haven boasts authentic ingredients and delectable treats, perfect for both Iranian expats and curious foodies.
Arya Bakery & Market
We love setting out on local food safaris to see where social media rumours, Google Maps suggestions and eye-catching street signs may lead us. Recently, they led us to Arya Bakery & Market in Manchester Industrial – a haven for all things Persian in Calgary. A family-owned business, Arya is run by Novin Afshar and his mother who scour the planet to bring Persian and Iranian favourites to what might be the neatest, most organized market we’ve ever seen. Afshar was a great guide and led us to pashmak, Persia’s version of cotton candy. Made mostly with sugar and flour, it’s far less sweet than its North American cousin and almost powdery in texture. It comes in bags like potato chips or pressed into balls, which is how we had it. We also enjoyed a pineapple drink with basil seeds and some traditional sangak bread, which is chewy and delicious made with whole wheat. Novin recommends it toasted for breakfast with cream cheese and sour-cherry jam. Our favourite find was the Persia Lady brand faloodeh (also called phaloodeh or paloodeh). Rumoured to be the world’s first frozen dessert, phaloodeh dates back to the Persian Empire. Made with rice vermicelli, sugar and rosewater, it resembles sorbet or shaved ice, but with some texture to it. We love the rosewater, but will go back to try other flavours including Pomegranate and Limeesha (lime and mint). Having been in business just over a year, Arya is sure to become a favourite destination for Persian eats for Iranian expats and food “safarians” alike.
Arya Market and Bakery | 8, 5608 1st St. S.E. | 587.355.7111
