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The best Jerusalem restaurants

From out-of-this-world hummus to market fresh produce, Jerusalem’s restaurants have a wide range of delicious options

Written by
Jennifer Greenberg
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Whether or not you’re looking for kosher restaurants, Jerusalem offers a wide range of options that are both mouthwateringly delicious and suitable for a plethora of palates. Unlike many of the world’s other top destinations, in the Holy Land, you’ll find fantastic culinary experiences that aren’t solely expensive (thanks in large part to the city’s unparalleled Israeli markets). Here’s a look at the best restaurants in Jerusalem and what the thriving restaurant scene has to offer. Believe us, after a day of travelling throughout Israel or shopping at Mamilla Mall for Israeli jewelry and designer clothing, you'll be grateful for a reason to wear your newest purchases. And for those of you that are still up and pumping, try out the Jerusalem nightlife scene, it will surprise you. 

Jerusalem restaurants you've got to try

  • Restaurants
  • Mediterranean
  • Machne Yehuda
  • price 3 of 4
With three Jerusalem chefs running the show, this rustic haven for foodies offers a changing market-to-table menu with all ingredients sourced from the nearby Machne Yehuda Market. The open kitchen gives you a front seat to the action, and the lively, spirited vibes are like no other. This restaurant was the inspiration for two of the most-talked about restaurants in London, The Palomar and The Barbary. Both are known for bringing this ‘Machneyuda’ genre of energetic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine to the city.
  • Restaurants
  • Mediterranean
  • Mishkanot Sha'ananim
  • price 2 of 4

There’s much to love about Satya, but it can be summed up in a combination of fresh seasonal ingredients and the attention to detail in each dish. Opened by Ilan Garussi, former head chef and owner of popular restaurant Chakra, this hotspot serves up Mediterranean food inspired from all over with a focus on fresh seafood along with specials like the hand-made pappardelle pasta with tomato butter, the colorful seafood risotto and 8-hour slow-cooked Japanese barbecue short ribs.

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  • Restaurants
  • Bistros
  • Mishkanot Sha'ananim
  • price 3 of 4
This spacious restaurant and wine bar presents an eclectic French/Italian menu with many options from meat to seafood. The vino here takes center stage with an extensive wine list featuring great international picks as well as a huge selection of Israeli boutique wineries. The people flow in as steadily as their wine, while their everchanging menu makes Adom a must frequent spot.
  • Restaurants
  • Italian
  • Jerusalem City Center
  • price 3 of 4
Located in downtown Jerusalem in the Ticho House, a place to immerse yourself in Jerusalem’s art and literary works, a kosher dairy and fish Italian restaurant called “Anna” immediately became one of the city’s most-beloved spots. Handmade pizzas and pastas, fresh fish and the best seasonal ingredients all come together for a memorable dinner. Anna is more than a restaurant, it is also an organization that helps disadvantaged students gain work experience in the kitchen and helps them get back on track.  
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  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Talbiya
  • price 2 of 4
Israeli top chefs Assaf Granit, Yossi Elad and Uri Navon long ago established the famous Machneyuda group, which operates restaurants all over the city. Talbiye is defined as a wine bar and functions during the day as a café. Next to your coffee, you can enjoy freshly baked goods, and next to your wine you can choose from various elegant dishes. The meticulously designed space and selection of seating options make Talbiye the perfect host for your weekend.
  • Restaurants
  • Mediterranean
  • Nachlat Shiva
  • price 3 of 4
Situated in the old stone Artists’ House, this vibrant restaurant is further enlivened by its select menu where unusual, flavorful combinations always sing and are never heavy-handed. Expect to try the best seasonal and raw ingredients with menu items like fresh pastas made by hand, light and refreshing sashimis, and ultra creative desserts.
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  • Restaurants
  • Mediterranean
  • Jerusalem City Center
  • price 3 of 4
This well-loved restaurant attracts locals in the know. Chakra showcases an Italian-inspired menu with a global influence and an extensive seafood selection. The menu boasts handmade pastas, fresh-baked focaccia, and an extensive wine list.
  • Restaurants
  • Italian
  • Jerusalem City Center
  • price 2 of 4
Situated in an ancient building, this kosher mehadrin Italian eatery offers a tasty menu of dairy and fish dishes. Piccolino offers a menu that combines innovation and tradition for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and special events. Enjoy freshly baked focaccias and pizzas from their ‘tabun’ (clay oven), antipasto, and decadent desserts. The warm Jerusalem atmosphere is not only due to the tabun, the family oriented owners are personal, friendly and inviting.
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  • Restaurants
  • Mediterranean
  • Jerusalem City Center
  • price 3 of 4
On the roof of the luxurious Mamilla Hotel, you’ll find breathtaking views of the Old City and an extensive bistro menu with dishes straight from the ‘tabun’ (clay oven). Expect dishes like fresh handmade pastas, grouper shawarma, and a multitude of vegetables made from the best produce of the season.
  • Restaurants
  • Mediterranean
  • Jerusalem City Center
  • price 3 of 4
This long-standing restaurant has been catering to the residents of Jerusalem and the city’s visitors for the past 43 years. The restaurant showcases the best of the season, including an extensive menu of fresh fish and seafood including calamari, shrimp, and more.
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