Seriously, this Jerusalem cafe is super vibey.
While I don’t really drink coffee, I’m most certainly a cafe-holic. I can’t get enough of sitting in a cafe whether I’m working, reading, or just chatting with friends. There is something special about the ambiance of cafes that you just can’t recreate at home. Every cafe brings their own spice to create their signature vibe, and this week I’ve stumbled upon possibly the most soothing and calming cafe in all of Israel.
And I really needed it. You know those weeks where you are just so overwhelmed you barely have time to breathe? Yeah, one of those just swept by me. But, luckily it’s over and Sunday marks the fresh beginning of a brand new week! In the midst of all the commotion I’ve been having, my sister brought me to a cafe oasis.
Introducing: Casa Lavi
Casa Lavi is a small beautiful coffee shop run by Latin American olim (immigrants in Hebrew). As you step through the entrance, you will instantly feel a wave of relaxation passing through your body. The aesthetic design of Casa Lavi creates a really good ambiance and combined with the super friendly and helpful staff, it will make you feel right at home. The shelves inside are lined with beautiful items from local artists, some of which you could purchase, if you you’d like.
You can choose to enjoy your drink (and food) indoors or outdoors. The indoor seating shown above offers a couple of tables and a couch with really comfortable pillows where you’ll be able to take in the beautiful artwork on the walls. Outdoors you can find a communal table, a bar, and a couple steps with cushions to sit on. If you’re looking to do work here (or another activity alone), these are all perfect places to sit. It’s especially nice when the Jerusalem weather is kind!
What We Ate
Their food is vegan, but don’t let that scare you. It’s absolutely delicious.
My sister and I split their incredible portobello mushroom sandwich on sourdough bread. If you love mushrooms, this was really yummy. If you don’t, make sure to try one of their other amazing offerings on their menu! Additionally, she got a matcha latte with almond milk and I got a chai latte with oat milk. My second time around I got a cha cha chai (or a dirty chai as us Americans like to call it) and a tahini cookie. The cookie was huge and so soft, I highly recommend it for people who like sesame.
As for their coffee, they source their beans straight from Nomad Coffee in Barcelona, so you’re sure to get yourself a great cup of joe.
Things to Do in the Area
Casa Lavi is located in the Baka neighborhood in Jerusalem. While it’s mainly a residential neighborhood, it’s not too far from some really interesting attractions. While you visit Casa Lavi, make sure you also head over to:
- Park HaMesila – 8 min walk
- Emek Refaim Street – 10 min walk
- First Station – 17 min walk, or 8 min bus. Use the 7, 71, or 72 lines from Bethlehem Road/Esther HaMalka and get off at HaPa’amon Garden/Bethlehem Road.
- The Montefiore Windmill and Yemin Moshe Neighborhood – 20 min walk, or 9 min bus. Take the 7 from Bethlehem Road/Esther HaMalka to HaPa’amon Garden/Bethlehem Road.
- The Old City – 28 min walk to Zion Gate, 31 min walk (or 14 min bus) to Jaffa Gate. Use the 231, 232, and 234 lines from Hevron Road/Esther HaMalka and get off at Yaffo Gate to get to Jaffa Gate.
How to Get There
Address: Beit Lehem Rd 41, Jerusalem
From Jerusalem Central Bus Station (or Yitzhak Navon Train Station), you can take the 74 or 75 bus and get off at Hevron Road/Esther HaMalka. It’s a 3 minute walk from there.
Make sure to check out their Instagram here.
And until next time,
Take a shans
