The Top Downtown Jerusalem Restaurants Open on Saturday

However, in reality there’s no need to fear. There are plenty of great restaurants around Jerusalem open on Shabbat, especially in the vibrant city center. So if you’re looking for a place to eat on Friday night or Saturday, here are the restaurants where you can’t go wrong…

Where to eat on Shabbat in the City Center

With nearly five decades of experience, Dolphin Yam restaurant is now a proper Jerusalem food institute specializing in fresh and high-quality fish, seafood, and meats. The restaurant is located in a beautiful ancient building which complements the cultural and culinary atmosphere. On the menu, you will find barramundi fillet in tomato & baby shrimp with a hint of cream, homemade lamb kebab on piquant tomato sauce, fried soft shell crabs, and a large variety of shrimps, calamari, and scallops. The indulgent dishes, exquisite atmosphere, and homely service are your recipes for a relaxing Saturday. Don’t forget to try their changing menus of wines and desserts. 

Where: 9 Ben Shtach St., Jerusalem

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Focaccia Bar is a Friday night and Saturday afternoon hotspot for locals, expats, and tourists alike. The affordable, something-for-everyone menu boasting everything from Italian and Middle Eastern cuisine to Asian, burgers, steaks, and more makes it a popular choice for groups and families. Meanwhile, the lively bar and friendly bartenders attract their fair share of 20-30’s drinkers and diners. 

Where: 6 Rabbi Akiva St., Jerusalem 

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Sure, you have many options for dining out downtown on Shabbat, but you won’t find a restaurant with a better combination of delectable cuisine and atmosphere than Barood. Located in the charming Feingold Courtyard, Barood serves a variety of Middle Eastern, Balkan, and Mediterranean dishes alongside a fine selection of Israeli and imported wines. Grabbing a table in the courtyard for some drinks and a meal during the summer is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike, and in the winter, the warm, intimate restaurant is the perfect place to escape the chilly Jerusalem nights. Depending on the week, you can also catch a free live concert on Friday and/or Saturday afternoons featuring local musicians playing Jazz, Middle Eastern, or Balkan music. 

Where: 31 Jaffa St., Feingold Courtyard, Jerusalem 

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Mona is fine dining cuisine at the highest level -- perfect if you’re looking to impress or treat yourself. Located in the Jerusalem Artists House building, the interior is exquisite, and the ever-changing menu offers some of the best and most creative fusion cuisine made using only the freshest locally sourced ingredients. 

Where: 12 Shmuel Ha-Nagid St., Jerusalem

The First Station Complex in Jerusalem is where food and culture meet and become an unforgettable and enjoyable culinary experience. A new burger stand has recently opened in the First Station and it soon became one of the most popular food destinations in Jerusalem: The Captain. The Captain's specialty is well-made fresh burgers in sweet and soft buns with crispy onion rings. Bonus: free refills of soft drinks. The best part though is that you get all of that deliciousness for a great price too. The Captain is also vegetarian and vegan-friendly. 

Where: Captain, 4 David Remez St., The First Station, Jerusalem 

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Last but certainly not least, you absolutely must check out the Rooftop Wine & Cheese Restaurant at the Notre Dame Center of Jerusalem, if not for the delectable food, then at least for one of the best views in the city and a lovely atmosphere. 

Where: 3 Hatsanhanim St., Jerusalem

• Open On Shabbat (Saturdays)
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