5 Dishes You Have to Eat in Jerusalem
#1 – Falafel
Perfectly fried, golden bits of heaven which are crispy on the outside, but warm, soft, juicy and bursting with flavor inside. These chickpea delights are perfect for any occasion – as a sandwich on-the-go or be enjoyed during a leisurely afternoon at a restaurant. The chickpea mixture is traditionally seasoned parsley, scallions, garlic, cumin, and coriander, then shaped into a ball and deep-fried. The falafel balls are then usually served on a pita sandwich with tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, hummus, and tahini.
This Mediterranean / Egyptian dish is ubiquitous in Israel, but one of my favorite places is Tala Humus and Falafel. Their food is not only delicious, but also very reasonably priced.
#2 – Shawarma
Think thinly sliced, succulent cuts of marinated, roasted lamb served on a flatbread with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, pickled vegetables, hummus and tahini sauce.
Yes, please, and can I have another one.
Head on over to Shawarma Tzanany, and get you one to go so that you can continue to explore the city.
#3 – Kebab / Qabab / Shish Kebab / … 
Is it meat? – Yes!
Is it skewered and cooked over an open flame (aka grilled)? – Yes!
Then its a kebab, and it is delicious.
Splurge a little and treat yourself to some kebabs at Mona. The restaurant feels like you walked into someone’s beautiful home. The aromas of the open kitchen and the decor immediately make you feel at home.
#4 – Tabbouleh
If you are in the mood for something on the lighter side, go ahead and get you some Tabbouleh.
Don’t let the name throw you off, it’s just a salad. Tabbouleh is made of tomatoes, chopped parsley, mint, bulgur, pomegranate seeds and onions. It is seasoned with olive oil, lemon, juice, and salt.
Of course different places give it their own spin to set themselves apart, but the overall concept is the same. I’d recommend staying traditional and enjoying it outdoors during a nice summer day to keep you cool, light and refreshed. Pairs great with a glass of wine.
#5 – Moussaka
Don’t even think about ordering it cold – regardless of what anyone tells you.
Think eggplant parmesan makes a trip to the Holy Land and drops the parm.
Thin eggplant slices are pan-fried and layered with a tomato sauce and minced beef, but has more of a vinegary taste than a tomato sauce.
My favorite place is Azura – great food, good size portions, great atmosphere, and very good service.
