The David Citadel Hotel

Terrible hotel stay at the David Citadel. Severely understaffed, terrible service, very over-crowded and the food was just horrible. At breakfast every day we would need to ask at least 5 times for coffee and they would refuse to just leave a pot of coffee on the table for us. And they don't put spoons on the breakfast tables. So every morning it was a test of wills to see if we could get anybody to bring us a spoon to stir our coffee. Why oh why would any breakfast restaurant not have spoons on the table? I was tempted to buy some plastic spoons and bring them with me in the morning. The rooms themselves are fine, but I would never stay here again because the level of service is so poor. There is a new Waldorf nearby and I recommend staying there instead.

David Citadel hotel is across from Mamilla mall and the Waldorf, nearest the Old City’s Jaffa Gate. It seems to attract mostly American and South African Jewish families. The Terrace on the 4th floor, directly off the lounge bar above the lobby entrance, has excellent views of the Crusader citadel/walls. I recommend eating there at sundown before the lights illuminate Citadel walls. It is wheelchair accessible and the closest major hotel to the market (Old Arab bazaar) inside Jaffa Gate. Parking is located across from Mamilla mall stairs. Days before Shabbat, guests should reserve well in advance of the busy atmosphere on Friday. The 2nd floor grand ballroom and outdoor covered terrace are fully booked early with Bar Mitzvah and Shabbat dinner reservations. The nearest bank machines for cash/ tip are two buildings uphill, under the Yellow gas station in the David Court, facing budget El Dan hotel. The location of David Citadel can’t be beat!