5 Fresh Foodie Spots in Jerusalem to Try Right Now

Jerusalem's culinary scene is buzzing with innovative bites, from pop-up trucks to cozy bakeries.

Here are four new(ish) gems, mixing trucks, cafes, and sweets, that highlight the city's vibrant, affordable eats. All are kosher and perfect for a casual outing.

1. Brutus Fried Chicken Food Truck - Crispy Street Eats

What to Expect: A mobile spot slinging gourmet fried chicken sandwiches, tenders, and pieces with bold flavors like spicy harissa glaze, pair with waffle fries for 30-50 NIS. Run by Chef Avi Sinclair (of La Piedra pizzeria), it's a hit for quick, indulgent bites.

Launched in early 2024, it's one of Jerusalem's first dedicated fried chicken trucks, bringing Southern-style crunch to the streets.

Where & When: Roams central Jerusalem (check Wolt app for locations; open evenings, Sun - Thursday, 11am - 10pm)

Kashrut: Machpud

Pro Tip: Order the signature "Brutus Bucket" for sharing, drizzle with their house hot sauce.

2. Oneg Patisserie – Modern Mehadrin Sweets

What to Expect: A sleek bakery-cafe dishing out Mehadrin-kosher pastries like pistachio croissants, matcha eclairs, and savory borekas, plus coffee flights and light salads. Prices hover around 15-30 NIS, ideal for a quick, elegant nosh.

Opened in mid-2024 in the city center, it's part of the wave of artisanal spots blending French techniques with Israeli flavors.

Where & When: City center (Agan Street 2, City Center, open Sun - Thurs 8am- 5pm; Friday; 8AM - 2pm ).

Kashrut: Badatz Belz/ Rubin

Pro Tip: Grab a weekend special: their seasonal sufganiyot (doughnuts) with unique fillings like halva swirl.

3. Lilian Cafe & Deli – Neighborhood Nosh Hub

What to Expect: Cozy spot for deli sandwiches on house-baked rye (pastrami with pickled veggies or smoked salmon bagels), plus salads and housemade pickles. Kosher, with a focus on hearty, shareable plates for 40-60 NIS.

Fresh 2024 opening on Hess Street, off the iconic King David Hotel area, it's become a go-to for locals seeking casual, elevated Jewish deli vibes.

Where & When: 2 Hess St. (near King David Hotel; Mon - Thurs: 8am - 5pm, Friday: 8-2pm).

Kashrut: Rabbanut Yerushalayim Mehadrin

Pro Tip: Pair your sammy with their fermented kraut, pairs perfectly with the area's historic strolls.

4. Tipsy Cafe – American Diner with a Twist

What to Expect: Retro-inspired diner in Rehavia serving all-day breakfast like fluffy pancakes with tahini drizzle, avocado toast on sourdough, or loaded burgers (veggie options galore). Kosher dairy, 35-55 NIS per dish, with killer milkshakes.

Launched in late 2024 by the Bardak Pizza team, it's injecting Yankee comfort food into Jerusalem's scene with local spins.

Where & When: 38 Keren Hayesod Street, Rehavia neighborhood (near Sderot Moshe Schneerson; open 8 AM–11 PM).

Kashrut: Rabbanut Yerushalayim

Pro Tip: Hit it for brunch, their "Jerusalem stack" (pancakes topped with labneh and za'atar) is a must-try hybrid.

5. Magic Ice

What to Expect: Croissants on steroids; Ice coffee to die for

These spots capture Jerusalem's mix of tradition and trend—book ahead for festivals, and always check for holiday closures.