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Asia Israel Jerusalem Dining American Colony Hotel

Overview

American Colony Hotel

The guide was updated: 2024-08-19

A dinner in this historical palace is worth its price, if only for the beautiful location and peaceful, charming interiors. Found near the Damascus Gate, the building was formerly a pasha's estate, converted into a hotel in 1902. Inside, there are several high-class eateries open for non-guests: the Arabesque dining room specialises in Middle-Eastern cuisine, while Val's Brasserie Lounge offers European dishes. Underground you will find a popular, atmospheric Cellar Bar, for a refined drink after dinner.

Useful Information

Address: Louis Vincent Street 1, Jerusalem
Website: www.americancolony.com/en-gb
Phone: +972 2 627 9719
Email: events@amcol.co.il

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

First Station

First Station

Inaugurated at the turn of last century, this Ottoman building no longer operates as a train station, and has been transformed into a lively entertainment, culture and leisure complex. There's always something going on and plenty of restaurants to choose from, especially for dinner, when live music is played and the atmosphere is vibrant. Take the occasion to explore the nearby downtown area in the new part of Jerusalem.

The Eucalyptus

The Eucalyptus

With a focus on cultural memory and local produce, this fine Kosher restaurant in the Artist Quarter won't be a cheap eat, but it will provide a memorable experience. All dishes are based on biblical scenes, and give a modern interpretation to meals mentioned in the sacred text. The chef uses spices and herbs that have been typical of the land for millennia. The location is also great: from their elegantly decorated balcony, you'll be able to admire the sun set over the Old City walls.

MachneYuda

MachneYuda

Loved for its vibrant, typically loud atmosphere, the MachneYuda restaurant offers great food, and music to dance to while the staff sing. They use fresh ingredients from nearby stalls of the Mahane Yehuda Market and change the menu according to seasonal produce availability. While in the Old Town, make sure to give it a try.

Azzahra

Azzahra

Try out authentic Palestinian cuisine at Azzahra, located in a beautiful mansion only a ten minute walk away from the Old City. If in doubt, choose their typical, well-reviewed makloubeh: its Arab name literally means "upside down", because this dish of lamb, rice and toasted almonds is served upside down after cooking. Their bakdoonsiyyeh, a parsley salad served with bread and tahini dip sauce, is also recommended. They also offer stone-baked pizzas, and their wine list is extensive.

Abu Shukri

Abu Shukri

An institution in the Old City, Abu Shukri offers great value for money, serving Middle-Eastern cuisine for every budget: this traditional, unassuming restaurant is a favourite among locals, and prepares delicious hummus and falafel served with pita bread and vegetables. It is only open for lunch, and it's usually quite crowded.

Chakra

Chakra

Lively and elegant, Chakra boasts a creative and eclectic choice of dishes, accompanied by an extensive list of drinks. Located in the centre, it's the perfect place to taste different specialities – share with your friends, and maybe order a tasting menu. Just be aware that the prices are rather high.

American Colony Hotel

American Colony Hotel

A dinner in this historical palace is worth its price, if only for the beautiful location and peaceful, charming interiors. Found near the Damascus Gate, the building was formerly a pasha's estate, converted into a hotel in 1902. Inside, there are several high-class eateries open for non-guests: the Arabesque dining room specialises in Middle-Eastern cuisine, while Val's Brasserie Lounge offers European dishes. Underground you will find a popular, atmospheric Cellar Bar, for a refined drink after dinner.

Menza

Menza

Open seven days a week, this cosy restaurant mixes traditional ingredients and international dishes. Set in a central location, it serves meals all around the clock and has tasty vegan options. Try their fattoush, a typical salad made with fried or toasted bread, tomatoes and other vegetables.

Azura

Azura

Another well-loved and unpretentious spot for lunch, Azura serves Iraqi Jewish dishes in huge portions and also features many alternatives in the Jewish Fusion Style. The Cube Soup is a must-try. The restaurant is located in the Iraqi section of the Mahane Yehuda Market and has tables to sit outside. Expect to find it packed with people.

HaMotzi

HaMotzi

Experience some North African cuisine in this kosher restaurant, whose creative chef mixes traditional Algerian recipes with elements from Jerusalem. In a central position inside the Old City, the restaurant is set in an ancient building, and carefully re-decorated — in a North African-inspired style, of course.

Nafoura

Nafoura

At Nafoura, a very charming location and good dishes come reasonably priced. With its beautiful outside area in front of the Old City Walls, near Jaffa Gate, it is a good option for an atmospheric dinner, especially on Saturday, when many other restaurants close for Shabbat. They have a lot of space, so big groups will have an easy time finding seating. Cuisine is mainly Middle-Eastern — try their well-reviewed eggplant starter.

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