It’s an interesting thing to feel so at home in Jerusalem since I only officially made Aliyah (immigrated to Israel) in August of last year. However, I was in a long on again off again relationship with Israel prior to my “big move” and thus I feel like I’ve become a native.
I have been exploring the ins and outs of vegetarian food in Jerusalem since 2016. It took me a while to find my favorite spots but I now have a few go to spots when I’m in need of a bite.
My top vegetarian picks in City Center, Jerusalem:
1. Green Shakshuka from Cafe Nadi, City Center
This is the perfect light but filling meal and they even have gluten free bread to go with it! Nadi is my go to breakfast spot and I am all about getting one of their big breakfast spreads. You can get this delicious dish with a side of a dozen spreads, bread, salad, a yogurt parfait, a hot drink and a cold drink. And trust me, their chai latte is hard to beat in Israel!
2. Hummus from Hummus Shel Tachina, Nachlaot
Check out this huge bowl of hummus, its gorgeous right?! This is the “Razor” or traffic light and it is my favorite way to order their hummus. Though Hummus Shel Tachina may not have gluten free pita bread- the cauliflower is on point and fries make a good bread replacement. (not celiac safe- the fryer has cross contamination.) Sometimes, I even byob- bring your own bread. Also, if you manage to finish the entire bowl, they’ll bring you refills!
3. The “Super Tasty” at Cafe Gan Sipur, Gan Sacher
It’s huge. It’s filling. And it comes with gf bread đ
This giant plate of super foods like nuts, seeds, and fresh veggies will keep you going all day! I recommend ordering it with a side of their sangria. Cafe Gan Sipur has a beautiful outdoor space overlooking Gan Sacher which is great for brunch.
4. Cheese plate at Cohen’s Deli, Three Locations
The cheese plate does come with an amazing salad topped with walnuts and extremely yummy tachina. Pro tip: have a great Malbec for 80 shek a bottle and it pairs well with the cheese plate.
Sadly, they don’t have gluten free bread but on the bright side I live down the road! Since I am usually coming from home, I can always just grab some and bring it with me. I generally go to the Rechaviya location but they also have on in town right by the YMCA!
5. The rice bowl from Suhsiya, Nachlaot
You have to ask for it gluten free because it comes with some things that have soy sauce and tempura but they are super accommodating and it makes a great cheap lunch!
Looking for where to eat in Tel Aviv?
Check out this post which features my favorite spots in TLV.
Happy vegetarian eating!
