Ballin on a budget? I totally understand! Luckily, Jerusalem has tons of cheap, delicious eats around every corner. Falafel and hummus are obvious low cost dinner options but what else is there? Tons! Here are my five favorite spots for cheap eats in Jerusalem.
1. Sushiya Veggie Rice Bowl, 28 Shekel or 38 for Fish
Located on Trumpledor right off Betzalel, Sushiya is a tiny little sushi joint known mostly to locals. In my experience, the staff is knowledgable about allergies and always has gluten free Tamari on hand! For less than 30 shekel, their Veggie Rice Bowl is one of the most filling cheap eats Jerusalem has to offer. It comes with a mix of rice noodles, rice, veggies, and tofu.
2. Injera from Habesh– 40 shekel FEEDS 3
Want to chow down on curries, salad, and a giant teff flour sourdough flatbread for less than $12 total? Grab a couple of friends and head to Habesh for their vegetarian Injera. A traditional Ethiopian dish, Injera is full of flavor. The plate comes filled with tons of different homemade lentil dishes and makes for a filling yet healthy lunch or dinner.
3. 3 Tacos (and a drink) from Tacos Luis– 48 shekel
Whether it is Taco Tuesday or not, Tacos Luis is the spot! With homemade corn tortillas, high quality fresh fillings, and an amazing staff- it can’t be beat. Tacos Luis is just steps from Mamilla Mall and the Old City making it super central and convenient. (Make your soda a beer for just 10 shekel extra!!)
4. Arepas from Pepitos- 25 to 39 shekel
Pepitos, opened by Andres and his wife who made Aliyah from Colombia, it is as authentic as it gets. Pepitos has tons of options from vegan to eggs to steak and goes above and beyond to protect from cross contamination. Add an empenada or yucca fries on the side for only ~15 shekel more. It’s located in the shuk and I highly recommend you stop by next time you’re picking up produce from your favorite local vendor. (pictured above)
5. Gluten Free Pizza from Bardak– 45 shekel
A cheap, gluten free option just off Emek Refaim and near many of the major hotels in Jerusalem, Bardak has great vibes and decent pizza. For the price, it’s one of the cheapest gluten free pizzas in Jerusalem. You can pick from a list of toppings ranging from goat cheese to broccoli, so you’re sure to find something you love!
The best part of this list, everything is gluten free! Headed to Machane Yehudah, here is a list of all the gluten free options the market has to offer.
