Known as Israel’s food bowl, the Galilee region is home to some of the world’s best hidden kosher culinary experiences. From sampling artisanal cheeses, to experiencing authentic Druze cuisine, or learning about what it takes to become the next kosher master chef, Israel’s north has a buffet of options with something for everyone.
Below are five favorite kosher culinary destinations, as selected by Jewish National Fund-USA’s Western Galilee Now Tourist Information Center, that you can enjoy as a solo travel or with the whole mishpocha! See them all and more at westgalil.org.il/en.
Alto Dairy Café
Located in the heart of the Galilee with a picturesque view of rolling orchards, Alto is your perfect destination for blending astonishing scenery with delicious food. At this delectable dairy destination, you can enjoy the privacy of an indoor booth or dine outside surrounded by the north’s natural beauty. Located on Kibbutz Shomrat, the fully kosher menu under the supervision of the Rabbinate of Mateh Asher offers a variety of dairy delicacies, including locally sourced cheeses, handmade desserts, and artisanal small batch coffee. Make sure you buy yourself something delicious before leaving at Alto’s Dairy Store & Delicatessen, which offers an unparalleled array of goat’s cheeses and other assorted delicacies.
More info: altodairy.co.il or click here.
A selection of Israeli cheeses and other locally sourced items available at Alto Dairy
Jullius Distillery
If you’re a wine or liquor enthusiast who wants a behind-the-scenes look at how schnapps gets made, Jullius Distillery is the place for you. Winner of the Excellence Award in the field of wine, beer, and alcohol production at the 2021 Israeli Cuisine Awards Ceremony, the distillery was established in 2008 by Yuval (Joov) Har Gil, a former food and liquor critic who decided to turn his passion into reality. Built on sustainability principles and powered by solar energy, Jullius Distillery is one of the most advanced and environmentally friendly distilleries in the world.
Options are available for alcohol tastings, meals, and distillery events where you can also witness the alcohol-making process for yourself. Located at the picturesque Kibbutz Hanita, you’ll be impressed both by Jullius’ impressive display of beverages and the gorgeous views of the Galilee.
More info: jullius.com or click here.
American and French Oak barrels used by Jullius Distillery
Safta Maha – Druze Experience
For those looking for a more intimate kosher dining experience that reflects the beauty of the Galilee’s diversity, Safta Maha’s will make your tastebuds come alive. Located in the beautiful Druze village of Hurfeish, guests are welcomed directly into Maha’s home where they’re treated to a gorgeous open view from the terrace as they dig into a variety of authentic Druze breakfasts, lunches, and dinners depending on the time of day.
Maha serves classic Druze dishes such as shulbato, beef or chicken stew, grape leaves, stuffed cabbage, maqluba, and mugrabi (stew of chickpeas with meat, pumpkin, and bulgur). In addition, guests can learn more about Druze culture as Maha shares her life story and explains what it was like growing up in a Druze community.
More info: instagram.com/maha7amer/ or click here.
Safta Maha serves up her famous wrapped vine leaves in front of breathtaking views of the Galilee
Galilee Culinary Institute by JNF
Jewish National Fund-USA’s Galilee Culinary Institute (GCI by JNF) is set to redefine culinary education both in Israel and around the world. A revolutionary experience, GCI by JNF will offer a 12-month community immersion and intensive culinary arts program designed specifically for students to acquire a combination of practical culinary skills – and a broad application of the major themes driving the food industry today. Students will leave GCI by JNF with a fully developed and practical culinary skillset on which to launch their own food focused careers.
In addition, visitors from all over will be able to come to the campus and take optional, single-day courses that can expand even the most seasoned of home chefs’ repertoires. Whether you want to know more about chocolate-making, dairy farming, or how to make wine, you can learn about it at GCI by JNF with classes set to commence in 2023.
More info: galileeculinaryinstitute.com or email nhoffman@gcibyjnf.com.
GCI by JNF’s Chief Culinary Officer and Co-Founder, Lior Lev Sercarz
Hadaral’e Restaurant
Looking for a romantic farm-to-table dinner destination with that special someone? Hadaral’e Restaurant has got you covered. With its candlelit setting and classical wooden furniture, Hadaral’e provides the perfect ambiance for a memorable night out. Enjoy a menu that features some of the best local dishes around – fresh fish, quality meats, and fresh vegetables hand-picked by the restaurant’s chef. Hadaral’e is also incredibly accommodating towards dietary restrictions, with a variety of vegan and gluten-free dishes available.
More info: hadarale.co.il or click here.
Ceviche mullet, purple onion, olive oil, lemon, Atlantic sea salt, and crispy eggplant strips