Jerusalem on a plate: discover the Holy Land’s 17 must-visit restaurants

Jerusalem, a city steeped in history, is a melting pot of cultures, each contributing distinctively to the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Make sure to add these best restaurants in Jerusalem to your itinerary!

Jerusalem’s food history dates back thousands of years, and it intertwines with the city’s religious and cultural past, with influences from Jewish, Muslim, and Christian traditions.

The Jerusalem food culture is as diverse as its people. Here, you can find traditional Middle Eastern dishes, such as falafel, hummus, and shawarma, sold in bustling markets like Mahane Yehuda.

The best restaurants in Jerusalem are diverse and dynamic. Classic eateries stand shoulder to shoulder with trendy, modern establishments.

👉🏽 See also: 26 essential restaurants in Tel Aviv

The city boasts everything from humble street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, with Michelin-starred chefs crafting innovative menus.

Local, organic, and farm-to-table concepts are increasingly popular, showcasing the region’s fresh produce.

The city’s gastronomic evolution is an ongoing journey, continually reshaped by its multicultural residents and innovative chefs.

🗺️ Map of best restaurants in Jerusalem

🥘 17 best restaurants in Jerusalem

Arafat Hummus: extremely popular

📍 Shuk ha-Basamim St, Jerusalem
💲 from $5 USD

Renowned for its velvety hummus, Arafat Hummus is a staple for locals and tourists and is one of the best restaurants in Jerusalem, in the Old City.

The restaurant embodies a minimalist, yet vibrant vibe, with splashes of colorful art adorning the walls.

Come here during lunchtime to enjoy their hummus bowls topped with warm chickpeas, tahini, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pair it with a fluffy, fresh pita for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.

🌟 Tip: The place is small, and the line is always long. Hard to get a seat, and the hummus runs out fast!

Jacko Street: Kurdish cuisine

📍 Agripas St 74, Jerusalem
💲 from $18 USD

Jacko Street is a must-visit gastronomic oasis in Jerusalem’s bustling market scene. It is one of the best restaurants in Jerusalem’s Machne Yehuda Market.

Its history echoes through the stone walls of the former carpenter’s shop, now hosting a classy, relaxed ambiance with warm lighting and eclectic decor.

Order the sour Kurdish risotto for entree and the entrecote (Jacko Street’s prime burger).

🍹 Tip: They have an extensive one-page Israeli wine menu from all regions!

Hachapuria: Georgian food

📍 Ha-Shikma St 5, Jerusalem
💲 from $18 USD

Tucked away in the bustling alleys of the Mahane Yehuda market, Hachapuria is a Georgian gem that serves an authentic slice of the Caucasus in the heart of Jerusalem.

A family-owned joint, it brings with it a rich culinary legacy passed down through generations.

It’s small and cozy, allowing for an intimate dining experience where you can watch the magic happen in their open kitchen.

The restaurant shines during lunchtime, as the market buzzes with shoppers and vendors, adding a lively backdrop to your meal. However, if you’re not a fan of crowds, the early evening offers a more serene atmosphere.

Their menu stars the eponymous ‘Hachapuri’, a cheese-filled bread that’s gooey, comforting, and addictive. The Khinkali, Georgian dumplings, are plump little pockets of joy that are not to be missed.

To drink, go for the traditional Georgian wine or try their homemade Tarragon soda, a unique flavor experience.vgg

Kinor Bakikar: outdoor dining with music

📍 Ma’avar Beit HaKnesset 8, Jerusalem
💲 from $26 USD

Kinor Bakikar tells a tale of old-world charm merged with contemporary cuisine in the historic Music Square. Inside, patrons are wrapped in a symphony of live music and culinary excellence, making every dinner feel like a special event.

Surrounded by art galleries and quaint antique shops, this upscale establishment elevates dining to high art.

For a dining experience worthy of their Gault & Millau award, try the Beef Tartare, followed by the Rack of Lamb, and wash it down with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon from Amphorae (Galilee, Israel).

Round off your meal with their decadent Chocolate Fondant and a glass of their in-house crafted cocktails.

🍛 Tip: Order the business lunch set menu for $26 USD, available daily from 12 PM – 4 PM.

American Colony: restaurant in a hotel

📍 Open on Google Maps
💲 from $26 USD

Nestled inside a converted Ottoman-era palace, the American Colony’s dining spaces are steeped in history and grandeur.

Each complex dining space has unique charm, from the elegant Arabesque to the sun-kissed courtyard.

Dine here to savor a fusion of Middle Eastern and international flavors, including their succulent Shish Barak or a classic Chicken Schnitzel, each paired beautifully with their curated wine list.

🥘 Tip: For a meal that truly embodies the spirit of Jerusalem, try the Maqluba with a refreshing Limonana.

Piccolino: best Italian

📍 Yo’el Moshe Salomon St 12, Jerusalem
💲 from $17 USD

A slice of Italian haven in the heart of Jerusalem, Piccolino offers rustic charm with its warm, wooden interior and charming outdoor seating.

It’s a great place for a family meal, business lunch, or a romantic dinner. Their fresh-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas are crowd favorites.

Their Tagliatelle Bolognese is a must-try, and their Tiramisu is legendary for dessert. The drinks menu features an array of Italian wines and liquors.

Nuna: sophisticated street food

📍 Ha-Tut St 3, Jerusalem
💲 from $9 USD

Modern, sophisticated, and undeniably chic, Nuna charms with its fusion of local flavors and global influences. With an ambiance as eclectic as its menu, dining here is intimate and exciting.

Their creative menu has dishes with Mediterranean, European, and Asian influences. Their rich Shakshuka is a breakfast hit, and the Asian-style Sea Bream is an innovative twist on a local favorite.

Pepito’s: Latin street food

📍 Agripas St 117, Jerusalem
💲 from $10 USD

Bringing the Latin spirit to Jerusalem, Pepito’s offers a lively atmosphere, Latin tunes, and food that will make your taste buds salsa. Visit during their lively evenings for the full experience.

The decor is colorful, the music is lively, and the food is a perfect fusion of Argentinian and Israeli cuisine.

Their tender Argentinian steaks and specialty cocktails, such as the Pepito’s Mojito, have been the talk of the town.

Their empanadas are crowd-pleasers, and their dulce de leche crepes are a sweet dream. The tangy margarita will also take you to a Latin American vibe!

Uzi Eli: Yemenite juice bar

📍 HaEgoz St, Jerusalem
💲 from $5 USD

Uzi Eli is a unique landmark and Jerusalem institution, a legendary juice bar rather than a traditional restaurant.

For years, this beloved stall in the bustling Machane Yehuda market has been serving healthful juices and traditional Yemenite herbal remedies based on recipes passed down through generations.

Known as “The Etrog Man”, Uzi Eli offers a blend of healthy juices, spiced with generations-old Yemenite medicinal wisdom.

For a unique experience, try the Etrog Citron, a refreshing mix of citron, lemon, and mint.

🫱🏻‍🫲🏽 Tip: You can chat with Uzi Eli himself, a Jerusalem character full of fascinating stories!

Iwo’s Meatburger: burger joint

📍 Hillel St 24
💲 from $9 USD

Tucked away in the capital’s buzzing city center, Iwo’s Meatburger is the stuff of local legend. Garnering a cult following for their dedication to all things meat, this joint is known for its no-frills, rock’n’roll approach to classic American dining.

Inside, it’s a stripped-back, retro haven that focuses on one thing: the burger.

The signature Iwo Burger with bacon and cheese is a must-have. Wash it down with a cold Israeli beer!

🍔 Tip: Bring your appetite, these burgers are mammoth.

Adom: romantic dining

📍David Remez St 4, Jerusalem
💲 from $5 USD

Situated in the historic Feingold Courtyard, Adom blends old-world charm with modern elegance. The warm lighting and comfortable seating create a romantic, relaxed ambiance, perfect for a date night.

They’ve earned a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide for their Mediterranean and European culinary fusion. Pair the melt-in-your-mouth Filet Mignon with a glass from their extensive wine list.

🥀 Tip: Book a table in the beautiful courtyard, especially during the evening.

Cafe Yehoshua: best breakfast

📍Azza St 17, Jerusalem
💲 from $25 USD

In the heart of Jerusalem’s Rehavia neighborhood, Cafe Yehoshua is a favorite local hangout. This laid-back cafe exudes a casual, artsy vibe with its bohemian decor and sidewalk seating.

It’s a perfect spot for leisurely afternoon brunches or evening cocktails. Their signature Shakshuka and a freshly brewed cup of coffee is a classic Jerusalemite start to the day.

🍃 Tip: Their vegan options are equally delicious even if you are not vegan!

Rooftop: dining with a view

📍Shlomo ha-Melekh St 11, Jerusalem
💲 from $25 USD

Elevate your dining experience (literally) at Rooftop, a stylish venue atop the Mamilla Hotel with panoramic views of the Old City.

Especially enchanting during sunset, this spot combines luxe ambiance with an award-winning menu. Try the Grilled Calamari followed by the Herb-crusted Lamb, and a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.

📸 Tip: The views are Instagram-worthy.

Beer Bazaar: artisanal beers

📍Etz Hayyim St, Jerusalem
💲 from $8 USD

Tucked inside the famous Machane Yehuda Market, Beer Bazaar is a dream come true for beer lovers.

With over 100 craft beers from Israeli microbreweries, this little pub is a lively hub buzzing with locals and tourists alike.

The food menu features classic pub grub with a Middle Eastern twist. Try the Beer Bazaar Burger with a beer sampler for an authentic taste of Israeli brews.

🍺 Tip: It’s also a retail shop so that you can take your favorite brews home!

Miss & Mr: date night restaurant

📍Yo’el Moshe Salomon St 12, Jerusalem
💲 from $18 USD

Miss & Mr, a funky eatery downtown and one of the best restaurants in Jerusalem, is famed for its eclectic menu and retro vibe.

Housed in a renovated 1920s building, its quirky decor and lively atmosphere make it an unmissable spot. Their menu offers an array of modern Israeli cuisine with an international twist.

The Jerusalem Mix dish, a local favorite, is a must-try. Sip on their refreshing Sangria for a perfect night out.

🪕 Tip: The restaurant hosts live music events on weekends.

Coffee Nadi: sophisticated small bites

📍Hillel St 39, Jerusalem
💲 from $18 USD

The bustling Nahalat Shiv’a pedestrian mall is home to Coffee Nadi, an iconic establishment known for its laid-back ambiance and delicious fare.

With its vintage decor, outdoor seating, and people-watching opportunities, this is the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or late-night snack.

Their Creamy Shakshuka and freshly brewed coffee are local favorites.

📖 Tip: The spot is equally famed for its rich cultural events like poetry readings and live music performances.

Brasserie Ein Kerem: modern brasserie

📍Hillel St 39, Jerusalem
💲 from $12 USD

Nestled in Jerusalem’s picturesque Ein Kerem neighborhood, Brasserie Ein Kerem serves up French-Israeli fusion in a charming, rustic setting.

The cozy interior and outdoor seating offer fantastic views of the historic village and the green hills beyond.

Their Duck Confit and Beef Bourguignon are not to be missed, paired with a glass of local boutique wine.

🌇 Tip: Visit during sunset for a great view!

Knaf: best knafeh

📍HaEgoz St 15, Jerusalem
💲 from $9 USD

Located in the vibrant Machane Yehuda Market, Knaf is a haven for street food enthusiasts.

This tiny, unpretentious stall has earned a big reputation for serving the best knafeh (a cheese pastry soaked in sweet syrup) in the city.

Pair your knafeh with a traditional mint tea for a perfect sweet break while exploring the market.

🍮 Tip: Be prepared for a queue, this place is popular!

Eucalyptus: best culinary experience

📍Felt St 14, Jerusalem
💲 from $12 USD

Set within the ancient stone walls of Jerusalem, Eucalyptus takes you on a gastronomic journey through biblical times with a modern touch.

Chef Moshe Basson’s award-winning menu revives ancient recipes with locally sourced herbs and produce. Try their signature Stuffed Figs or the Maklubah, paired with an Israeli wine.

👨‍🍳 Tip: Book the ‘Chef’s Experience’ for an extremely unique culinary tour!

Lechem Basar: meat and bread

📍 David Remez St 4, Jerusalem
💲 from $16 USD

Translated to “Meat and Bread”, Lechem Basar in the industrial area of Talpiot, delivers exactly what it promises: mouthwatering steaks and fresh-baked bread.

The interior has an urban-rustic vibe, with its high ceilings and minimalist decor. Order their legendary Rib Eye steak, and sip on their craft beers.

🥖 Tip: Their bread is baked on the spot.

Sea Dolphin: late-night seafood

📍 Shim’on Ben Shatakh St 9, Jerusalem
💲 from $16 USD

Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling market, Sea Dolphin (formerly Dolphin Yam) serves some of the freshest seafood in Jerusalem. The maritime-themed decor creates a relaxed, coastal atmosphere.

Enjoy their Mixed Seafood Grill alongside a chilled glass of Chardonnay.

🕒 Tip: They are open til 11:30 PM, so this is a great late-night spot!

Al Dente: Italian flare

📍 Menahem Ussishkin St 50, Jerusalem
💲 from $18 USD

Nestled in the heart of Rehavia, Al Dente is a quaint Italian Trattoria that offers authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and welcoming setting.

The menu includes classics like Osso Buco, fresh-made pasta, and Tiramisu for dessert. Pair your meal with a full-bodied Italian red wine.

☀️ Tip: Enjoy the alfresco dining experience in the warmer months.

Crave: gourmet street food

📍 Menahem Ussishkin St 50, Jerusalem
💲 from $12 USD

Crave brings a unique twist to the Jerusalem food scene with its gourmet kosher street food. The brainchild of a classically trained chef and a former punk rocker, Crave’s hip ambiance is reflected in its innovative fusion menu.

Their famous Ramen Burger and craft beer are a match made in foodie heaven!

🍃 Tip: The restaurant is also vegetarian-friendly, with innovative plant-based options.

Mona: best fine dining

📍 Shmu’el ha-Nagid St 12, Jerusalem
💲 from $12 USD

Housed in an old Ottoman-era building that doubles as the Jerusalem Artists’ House, Mona is both an elegant bistro and a contemporary art showcase.

The ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed, ideal for romantic evenings or business dinners. The award-winning menu features dishes like Lamb Carpaccio and Monkfish Fillet.

🖼️ Tip: Visit during an art exhibition to enjoy a cultural feast alongside your food experience!

⁉️ FAQ: Jerusalem restaurants