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The top five Jerusalem cafés

Israeli baristas take the art of coffee very seriously...and it shows in these Jerusalem caffeine-loaded masterpieces

Written by
Jennifer Greenberg
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Italy has the best espresso you say? You think France has a monarchy over the café au lait? Clearly, you haven’t discovered the right Israeli bakeries and cafés yet...and not just Israel. Jerusalem cafés, in particular, have been steaming up the best cappuccinos (‘café hafuch’ in Hebrew), the richest seasonal sachlab and the most thirst-quenching iced coffees for ages. Whether you’re a Jerusalem native coffee novice, or you’ve come from a long week of sightseeing in the Galilee or the Negev, these cozy cafés will hit the spot, warm the soul and feed your coffee addiction like never before. Forget the coffee chains, check out our list of the best Jerusalem cafés for the real deal. And you know what? These spots will satify not only your thirst. In these cafés you will find top of line comfort food for every hour of the day. Still hungry? Checkout the most authentic Jerusalem restaurants for more food options. 

 

Jerusalem cafés for caffeine addicts

  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Jerusalem City Center
  • price 2 of 4
Locals love this old-school cozy cafe for its kosher dairy menu with a creative flair, home-baked pastries, handmade pasta, freshly baked quiches, and the warm, inviting atmosphere. Their Eggs Benedict is known as the best in Jerusalem.
  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Jerusalem City Center
  • price 2 of 4
Located in downtown Jerusalem on the corner of charming and quiet Shatz pedestrian street is Nadi. A typical cozy neighborhood cafe, Nadi specializes in sandwiches on fresh bread with quality cheese. They are also popular for their mastery of the Israeli breakfast, with shakshouka shaken up by the addition of interesting vegetables. The portions are huge, the prices affordable and the service is great, even when the place is packed. With a central location and a reputation as one of the best places for brunch in Jerusalem, Nadi is a meal you won’t want to miss.
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Café Bezalel
  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Nachlat Shiva
  • price 1 of 4

Cafe Bezalel is a small, artsy cafe named for the street on which it sits. Open Saturdays, a rarity for the Jerusalem area, Cafe Bezalel is known for its great coffee and huge pastries. It’s menu also contains delicious sandwiches, salads, and other treats, including vegetarian and vegan options. A popular place for students and youth, Cafe Bezalel has a friendly, laid back atmosphere, with a great view of the old town center. Rated as one of the top cafes in Jerusalem, Cafe Bezalel is the perfect place to take a long brunch.  

  • Restaurants
  • Mediterranean
  • German Colony
  • price 2 of 4

Nestled in the heart of peaceful Baka is Kalo, a popular kosher café for Jerusalem’s young and hip. Furnished with rustic-style chairs and tables, Kalo’s down-to-earth, slick vibe makes you want to kick back and enjoy. The colorful breakfasts are abundant: an assortment of fresh salads, homemade jams, toasted bruschetta with warm mushrooms, croissants stuffed with lox and cream cheese, nostalgic French toasts, creative shakshuka - so much to choose from. No matter what you order, Kalo’s ambience and delightful food will keep you coming back for more.

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Shraga
  • Restaurants
  • Vegetarian
  • Jerusalem City Center
  • price 1 of 4

Though Shraga started off as an adorable café with colorful sandwiches in 1998, this kosher spot reinvented itself with a kindred spirit, a new stylish vibe and the strong belief that simplicity makes the sandwich. The hearty sandwiches take center stage here, overflowing with vegetables. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are all available at this warm and ambient café. Don’t miss the daily specials or the rich homemade soups.

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