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Jerusalem
The Levy Way
Isaac and Orna Levy believe that the best way to get to know a new
place is to be led by hand by a native who can fill you in on all that you
need to know and experience in the new city, country or neighborhood.
“I will be happy to be your guide,” says Isaac, “when you are ready to
come to Jerusalem, we are ready to host you!”
Where to Dine:
The one thing that connects human beings across the globe is
our ever present need to eat. Isaac believes that the quickest
and most enjoyable way to learn about a culture is through its
food. Luckily, Jerusalem is full of exciting and very diverse culinary
delights, from traditional and Kosher cuisines to Mediterranean
and Arab delicacies.
Having traveled the globe and visited many exciting international
cities (New York, Las Vegas, Singapore, Hong Kong, etc), Isaac
prefers tranquil and peaceful places in his home town, which
brings us to his favorite restaurant:
Magda, in the Arab Village of Ein Raffa
Isaac’s favorite restaurant in Jerusalem is Magda in the Arab
Village of Ein Raffa. Magda is located in a charming environment,
surrounded by foliage and lovely views as seen through the
glassed-in terrace. The cuisine at Magda reminds Isaac of his
grandmother’s home cooking as she was Egyptian and often
prepared Arab specialties. The flavors and aromas at Magda bring
on a flood of memories for Isaac, heart-warming flavors that bring
him back to his roots, his “home”. The simple dishes and warm,
friendly environment at Magda make for pleasant evenings where
photo: Ishai Parasol Photography
one can easily feel like a local while garnering a sense of Middle Eastern
culture, deeply rooted in traditions that date back thousands of years. A
great place to visit on your first night in Jerusalem, an enjoyable way to
overcome jetlag and hang with the locals.
Machane Yehuda, in the center of the Jerusalem market
For a livelier evening, Isaac recommends the hip, young and unusual restaurant Machane Yehuda in
the center of the Jerusalem market. Even Tel Aviv natives travel all the way to Jerusalem and make
reservations months in advance to experience this unusual fusion cuisine, where Arab traditions meet
Israeli favorites, both with innovative modern twists. Located in the heart of the Jerusalem market,
Machane Yehuda is a vibrant study in contrasts between the Old World and the New. The place
is extremely noisy, warns Isaac, but the energy of the place is captivating and dinner here is a truly
unique experience.
Of course the most highly recommended bistro in Jerusalem is Orna’s Kitchen. “If Orna were not a
jeweler, she would be a chef,” says Isaac. “The world of fine cuisine is missing a star player in Orna.”