Good Baklava’s “Baklava Guy” Goes Viral at Knicks Games
Good Baklava founder Roy Donk became a viral sensation during the New York Knicks’ NBA Finals run by handing out free pieces of baklava to fans outside Madison Square Garden.
What began as a fun side hustle at Phish concerts eventually grew into a full-fledged business. After moving back to New York City, Donk began selling Turkish pistachio baklava in parks and around the city. Today, Good Baklava imports its baklava from Türkiye and finishes it in New Jersey by baking it and adding syrup and extra pistachios.
Donk says the Knicks games were the perfect setting for Good Baklava because of the energy and excitement surrounding the city. Rather than selling the baklava, he chose to give it away, believing that a piece of baklava could make an already unforgettable moment even sweeter.
His unique approach to sharing baklava has taken Good Baklava far beyond New York. The brand has appeared at major events including the New York City Marathon and Coachella, while Donk has traveled internationally, including to Türkiye to source pistachios.
For Donk, the best part of the business is seeing people's reactions. Baklava can bring back memories of family and celebrations, while the unexpected experience of receiving a piece from a stranger creates moments of surprise and joy.
The story of the “Baklava Guy” is ultimately about more than dessert — it’s about community, humor, generosity, and turning a simple passion into something that brings people together.
Read the Full Story
Read the complete exclusive interview with Roy Donk and learn more about how Good Baklava became a New York sensation.