The Old City of Jerusalem may be where one goes to see places of religious importance, but that doesn't mean that one can't find time – between visits to holy sites – to sample some of the best traditional Middle Eastern cuisines that Jerusalem has to offer.
Recommendations
The following are five must-visit restaurants in the Old City.
Lina, Christian Quarter
Photo courtesy of Lina restaurant
Head to the Christian Quarter to Lina, one of Jerusalem's leading hummus restaurants. Lina, which offers a hummus-only menu, is Located close to Station 8 of the Via Dolorosa. It serves a number of variations of the traditional hummus dish, such as hummus with pine nuts and hummus with beans. It is definitely a crowd favorite and is not to be missed.
El-Khanka st, Jerusalem
Austrian Hospice Café on Via Dolorosa St., Muslim Quarter
The Viennese-style cafe at the Austrian Hospice is one of those unique destinations that combine class, ambiance, and delicious food. Enjoy some goulash soup, schnitzel, sacher-torte or apple strudel while sitting on the garden terrace of the café. When you have completed your meal, make your way to the building's rooftop for a great view of the Old City.
37 Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem
Armenian Tavern, Armenian Quarter, near Jaffa Gate
A definite highlight of the Armenian Quarter is the Armenian Tavern which serves traditional Armenian food and is located inside a 1000-year-old building that was once part of a Crusader cloister. Here you can sample home-style food prepared with special Armenian herbs and seasonings.
79 Armenian Patriarchate Rd, Jerusalem
Bulghourji restaurant, Armenian Quarter
Located in a building that was once a bulgur wheat factory, Bulghourji offers Armenian cuisine and is known for its quality meat dishes. Bulghouri hosts events for up to 300 guests. 6 Armenian Patriarchate Rd, Jerusalem
The Quarter Cafe, Jewish Quarter
The Quarter Cafe is a kosher dairy cafe that is ideal for small gatherings or larger events. In close proximity to the Western Wall, it is a great place to eat before or after a tour of the area. It also has a spectacular view of the Old City.
11 Tiferet Israel St, Jerusalem