Jerusalem's Top Cafes and Bars: Premier Spots to Unwind and Recharge
Jerusalem's historic allure and bustling energy can be overwhelming. With endless sights to explore and diverse perspectives to encounter, a respite is essential. Fortunately, locals across the city cherish their own havens, offering an array of exceptional cafes and bars perfect for relaxation in every neighborhood.
Notre Dame Cheese & Wine Restaurant
As sunset approaches, make your way to the rooftop of the Notre Dame Center—a renowned lodging for Christian clergy and pilgrims, including the Pope. Enjoy a glass of wine or beer with a cheese platter amid tranquil vistas. Positioned at the Old City's edge, this restaurant delivers one of Jerusalem's scarce rooftop escapes, ideal for a premium indulgence.
American Colony Hotel
In East Jerusalem, the elegant American Colony Hotel draws politicians, diplomats, journalists, and discerning travelers. Sip premium coffee in the idyllic courtyard or fine wines in the atmospheric cellar bar. Housed in a 19th-century structure, it fulfills all dining and drinking desires—though at a premium. Budget travelers: Complimentary mixed nuts, vegetables, and cheese accompany your wine.
Kadosh
Kadosh boasts devoted patrons, from longtime locals and politicians entertaining guests to those recovering from nearby bureaucratic errands. Renowned for robust coffee, irresistible pastries, and inventive twists on classic mains, it blends tradition and innovation in a revered—or kadosh—Jerusalem ritual. Though upscale, its pastries like homemade meringues, chocolate cakes, and tarts rank among the city's finest.
Sarwa Street Kitchen
This fresh East Jerusalem gem epitomizes laid-back vibes for coffee, meals, or beer. Fresh offerings span homemade pizzas and burritos to Palestinian staples like makloubeh (inverted chicken, rice, vegetable, and spice dish), plus vegan and vegetarian choices. With reliable Wi-Fi and abundant natural light, linger as long as you wish.
Café Betzalel
A West Jerusalem favorite, Café Betzalel delivers relaxed ambiance with creative spins on dishes like artichoke-enhanced salade niçoise and fresh jachnun (Yemenite Jewish pastry). Notably open on the Jewish Sabbath, it expands onto a pedestrian street for ample seating—arrive early Saturdays for prime people-watching.
Sira Pub
The Sira, a uniquely Jerusalem venue, attracts young, progressive crowds. Its dimly lit, eclectic interior fosters a multilingual, chill atmosphere with late-night DJ sets and dancing. Tucked on a downtown alley, it defies norms by opening Friday nights during the Sabbath, providing essential stress relief.
Viennese Café
After navigating the Old City's labyrinthine, slick stone paths, retreat to the Austrian Hospice's Viennese Café. Indulge in robust coffee topped with whipped cream or sweetened milk, plus strudel and goulash. Nestled in the Arab Quarter, it offers quiet Wi-Fi-enabled solace from sacred sites.
Casino de Paris
Hidden in Mahane Yehuda Market's heart via a narrow alley, this cozy West Jerusalem spot features a private courtyard. Anytime haven for craft drinks—including signature cocktails like Yitzhak Rabin or Arab Spring—plus bites such as grape leaves and pizza. Proximity to the market's delights is a bonus.
T’mol Shilshom
For over 20 years, this West Jerusalem bookstore-cafe has been a literary sanctuary with soaring ceilings and book-clad walls, hosting top Israeli authors. Its book-shaped menu highlights nourishing fare like signature shakshuka and warming sahlab. Spot the Jaffa Street signs for entry.
Carousela
Escape the center at this Azza Street hideaway in West Jerusalem, perfect for bold coffee, inventive cocktails, and warm vibes. Evoking vintage Middle Eastern charm, it doubles as a cultural hub with monthly music and events. Kosher note: Food complies technically, but uncertified due to owners' stance on inspectors.
Educational Bookshop & Cafe
A beloved East Jerusalem nook for work, reading, and events, this spot pairs drinks and sandwiches with titles on Arab-Israeli issues, Palestinian art, and culture. Upstairs seating is snug—browse books while waiting.
