Jerusalem Cafe
516 SE Chkalov Dr,Ste 45, Vancouver, WA, 98683
Jerusalem Cafe Menu
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Address :
516 SE Chkalov Dr,Ste 45
Vancouver, WA, 98683 - Phone (360) 891-1490
- Website https://thejerusalemcafe.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Nicole B.
The food here was excellent. I had the garlic chicken which came with an appetizer of pita bread with some toppings like potato salad, a kind of salsa, and two kinds of pickled cabbage. It was a substantial amount and very fresh. The owners wife who served us, helped show us how to eat the food and helped with good suggestions. The meal came with rice and the chicken was very flavorful. The only downside would be the decor which was a little "dive-y" for the price of the food. For two meals it was about $40.
(4)Yelena K.
Love this place! Always service the best food! With great customer service! Friendly as soon as you walk in
(5)Ahsan M.
this place is so -so I had to drink a gallon of water an hour after eating, because the food was very salty for my taste. Customer service was good with a friendly staff, but not sure about the food if its halal. they said yes before then said no later...so not sure Luckily i found a place that blows this place out of the water in terms of food, service, and ambiance!!! if you love middle eastern food you should give PETRA HOUSE in Vancouver a try! YUMMY!
(2)Howard H.
Come on! The server asked me if I saw the specials, I said no. He responded by bringing the freakin special sign to my table to read it!! Are you an idiot, or do you just like embarrassing your customers??
(1)Shauna M.
Free parking, good service, food is not great, have had better. Prices are a little high for what you get. I have been here three times, will not be headed back.
(2)Quisha F.
I never have any idea what I'm ever ordering, all I know it is always good! I've only ate lunch here. Usually get some sort of pita sandwich. And oh boy, does it fill you up! Cheapest lunch ever! Most pitas are $5-6 I've only been here twice, and the lady working there is amazing!! She really goes up & beyond to help you. I've always wanted to eat here, I don't know why it has taking me this long to come in. I feel like I have been missing out on this gem for too many years. It is my new favorite lunch spot!
(5)Derrick R.
Very expensive. I got there and was practically force fed a hummus platter. They critiqued my scooping technique and degraded my self worth. As I looked at the menu I saw nothing but outrageous prices, I bought a "chicken kabab" with "jasmin" rice. It was good I guess. But after a delicious a meal I was deceived into buying baklava, a mediocre treat for 1. After I got the check I had learned that they had charged me for the hummus platter which I initially thought was free. All in all it was $20 for one person. I felt robbed, degraded and alone.
(2)Michelle C.
This is definitely one of the best restaurants in eastern Vancouver, if not the best. The location downtown is good as well, but this review is specifically for the location on Chkalov. Service: Jerusalem Cafe appears to be family owned and operated. They seem to genuinely care about their product and their customers' satisfaction. We were seated immediately. When another couple came in, they were not forced to wait. Another person came out of the kitchen and sat them immediately as well. We had just enough time to look the menu over and the young lady who served us came as soon as we were ready to order. She brought the drinks right away and was pleasant and helpful. When our food came, it was fresh and hot. She noticed that I needed iced tea and brought me a new one without me even having to ask. As soon as we were done with our meal, our plates were cleared. When we complimented to food, she was genuinely pleased that we were satisfied. Food: I had the falafel lunch special and my husband had the garlic chicken lunch special. Each dish came with two kinds of cabbage salad, tabouleh, hummus, a tomato and cucumber salad, and two kinds of sauces (I don't know what they were but they were yummy). The meal also came with flatbread. While the portions of sides were small taken on their own, as another reviewer noted, taken on the whole, they made a nice little salad sampler and there was plenty. Of these little salads, the cabbages were my favorite, lightly vinegary, a little sweet, and cool. Very nice on a summer day. My falafel was cooked perfectly, perfectly crisp on the outside, and just the right size for folding into a little piece of soft, warm flatbread with a little dollop of hummus. My husband and I are rarely excited about the same restaurants and the same kinds of food, but he was very happy with his meal as well. He had the garlic chicken which, again, was hot, cooked perfectly, and seasoned just right. It came on a small bed of rice. At last! A restaurant we both can agree on. Environment: While I would not say that the environment is bad, I would say that it isn't on par with the food and the service. This is the sole reason that I won't give five stars. The neighborhood is safe, but it's located in a 1970s strip mall and is hardly noticeable from the street. This is certainly not a fault of the restaurateurs, but it needs to be included in my review. While the decor inside isn't something to write home about, it is clean and pleasant. I don't know about you, but I will sacrifice ambiance for a good meal any day of the week. If you want better ambiance, the location downtown is more attractive. I am writing this review, although I ordinarily don't write reviews, because the location isn't the best but the place is just so good! Don't just drive past it because of its exterior. Give it a chance. It's totally more than it seems from the street.
(4)Erica H.
Food: Amazing. Staff: Amazing. Food poisoning for husband and me & 5 days of throwing up: Bummer.
(2)Mahnaz H.
Funny owner or manager :) the appetizers were good though the pita bread would better be softer. Appetizer are included in the entree items. I ordered kofta kabob and my husband order maisa kabob. Kofta was made of lamb and beef. The serving size was not enough actually. Less than one fourth of a medium plate was kofta, 1/4 rice ( again less than expected), 1/4 chopped green veg, 1/4 tomato salad. We had to use pita breads given with appetizers to finish our food. Maisa was a good chicken and beef preparation. Liked the manager guy. Faced no wait time on a Saturday night.
(3)Lien D.
I was pleasantly surprised with this restaurant. After reading a lot of the reviews about the horrible service, I was very hesitant. But alas my friend wanted to try it anyways so on we went. The waitress came off a bit brash and short but after talking to her she was quite friendly. We asked if they had a lunch menu. She told us they don't usually offer it on the weekend but she let us have it anyways. I ordered the chicken and lamb special for about 10 dollars. It was pretty delicious. The portion was right. The taste was right. Overall I had a good experience. They do seem a bit pushy. Yes, I thought the whole moving the special sign thing was a bit weird too. But they seem to go out of their way to accommodate as much as they can. It is a good restaurant. I will definitely come back.
(4)Abigail V.
Iv been there twice and both times have been very pleasant. I went my first time with some family who had already been there. I'd never had that type of food before and to be honest I wasn't expecting it to be too great but it was all delicious! You have to get the baklava for desert
(4)Brad N.
We really like this place! The owner and staff are friendly and welcoming and the food is always very fresh. We've ordered about four or five dishes and never been disappointed. In fact, we are mostly surprised how good things are here. Come try it!
(4)Victoria M.
Casual atmosphere, delicious food, very friendly and personable service. We rarely venture over to Vancouver, and there are probably more quaint and cute places than the strip mall where we happened to find this place, but I would absolutely come here again. Falafel sandwich was not quite like any I've had before, with bits of pickled sweet cabbage. If I'd realized that came with the dish, I probably would have asked them to omit it, because I normally hate cabbage of any kind. But this turned out to be a very delicious accent.
(5)Marybeth S.
This used to be my favorite middle eastern restaurant. We'd been there about 4-5 times over the past 2 years and it was a great value and delicious every time. Probably won't go back again. Went last week and the portions for my hummus pita were so bad I had to send it back. A new pita came out which was a little better but not by much. My side salad was on the smallest plate I'd ever seen in my life. My daughter's side of pilaf was on a same tiny plate and it was $3. Measly. I don't know what happened - same people were there that I've always seen - portions are WAY SMALL now and not worth it.
(2)Christopher S.
Love the the flavors of garlic and lemon. The chicken and lamb are always juicy. Free appetizers with meals. I recommend the lemonade with the meal. The owners are friendly and helpful with recommendations if you have never experienced Jewish food before.
(5)Julie D.
My friend and I visited this restaurant on Sunday. I had the personal mazza and she had a lamb dish. I got an 8 or 9 inch plate with 1 spoon each of red cabbage, green cabbage, potato salad, red salsa type stuff, hummus, cucumber tomato salad and tabouhli. My total was $17 because i had a guava - lemonade. My friend had a measly portion of lamb, a pile of rice and a pile of cucumber tomato salad. Her total was $21. We were there with one other party of people and they turned 1 group away because they were closing. My friend didn't get to order what she actually wanted because they were out of her meal of choice. Also, the server hovered over us because he was in a hurry to close the kitchen. We're thinking maybe they really didn't have much food left and kind of just gave us bottom of the barrel. The food wasn't terrible but it wasn't amazing either. It most definitely wasn't worth the price we paid. I'm super disappointed. I called to speak to the manager on Tuesday. I wanted to give them a chance to make things right. The manager let me know that I should have just asked for more food if I was still hungry??!??! He also stated that he didn't really think I was unhappy because when I was there I was smiling and engaging and didn't complain. Right, I didn't complain because he made it clear the kitchen was closed. I'm not sure how he would have served us extra food since he made it very clear they were in a hurry to close and that their chef was gone for the night. I really wanted to like this place since it's so close to my home. I won't be going back. They are over priced and their service is terrible.
(1)Wendy P.
First time here.The owner was very welcoming and the cafe charming. I ordered the lamb/ chicken special to go. Menu said it came with tabouli, beets, and cucumber salads on the side so I figured it would be ample , but I was wrong. The food was very good but the portion was so tiny ~barely any meat , not much salad 1/2 of a pita for $10. I have a moderate appetite, am a small 5 '4 female , but seriously I'm going to have to go out and get something else to eat in a couple hours! It's probably a better experience if you eat in so take my suggestion and don't do take takeout!
(2)Luke P.
I had the garlic chicken off the lunch menu. It was delicious and fresh. The meat had a ton of flavor, but the portion was a little small for the price. The owner said the dinner portions are more my style. The owner also was very helpful and made sure we were well fed. You could tell he was from the region all the food was made from his personality. I will visit again.
(4)Abby D.
Just finished a marvelous meal at the Jerusalem Cafe. We Ordered: 1. Mezza Plate - delicious, savory and even came with a friendly tutorial of how to eat it! Family size was easily enough food for 4 + a taste of everything. Falafel was killer. 2. Chicken & Lamb Dinner Plate - savory, flavorful without too much spice. Fair portion size for $13.99 3. Handmade Pistachio Bacchlava - OMG, best I've ever had. So flaky & not overly sweet. Our server was awesome and so friendly. He even made a special order of mini "burgers" with fries for my picky 5 year old. His wine recommendation was perfect - the house Cabernet was outstanding. I will definitely be making the drive back to Vancouver for this place.
(4)Deanna H.
This place was delicious! The grilled shrimp tasted like it came from an outdoor grill! Definitely a must visit! !!
(5)Rollin F.
The sandwiches are amazing, totally worth it! The staff build great employee-customer relationship.
(5)Melissa H.
My taste buds came alive with all of the different flavors.I ordered an assortment of things and was so impressed. I am a Pescetarian so I am limited as to what I can eat.I ordered the shrimp and it was full of flavor. If you are a vegetarian they have a whole plate for you! Loved it!
(5)Melanie S.
There's not too much to write about this place other than it was an awesome experience! Small little place with great food. The waitress will even help you with how to properly eat the appetizer that they provide and the hummus is to die for good! I have known about this place for a long time, but being that I live out of town, I don't get to come try these places often because I'm stuck running to all my go to places when I'm home. This will definitely be on my list of go to places from now on! Great service. Wonderful food, and great prices!
(5)Jason H.
My wife and I ate here last night. She is highly allergic to gluten and is very limited in choice of restaurants. They were very accommodating and the service was from the heart. The seasoning on our chicken and lamb was amazing!! The grape leave rolls were the best I have ever had! They were served hot. My wife actually ordered a second serving instead of desert. Lol We highly recommend this place.
(5)David G.
Meat dish was good, pita not fresh and not made in house though
(2)michael l.
It has been a while since we have been to this restaurant but I really like it. I vegetarian and there are a lot of vegetarian options. I especially like the pickles that are included with the meal. The owner is friendly and usually stops by the table to chat.
(4)Andre B.
Jerusalem Cafe has some of the best falafel I have ever tried. I would give it five stars if they just used more sauce. They found out I was new to the area and gave me free humus as a 'welcome' present. The staff here have a good sense of humor and always entertain. It is a good place to bring your mother in law.
(4)Tami D.
2nd time here! Love it even more then the 1st time! Looking forward to coming back soon. The food is delicious!
(4)Igoryok F.
There is only a few times I've been to a fancy restaurant. All the meals are so yummy! This restaurant is so nice!
(4)Maureen M.
Meh. I had the lunch special chicken kabob and was fairly unimpressed. The chicken was essentially tasteless and rubbery. There was perhaps one tablespoon of rice on the plate and other than the tahini (which I don't care for) there were blobs of tasteless unknown items on the plate. I don't think I will be back.
(2)M H.
I'm not sure what everyone else is raving about (must be the family friends writing fake reviews), but we had a bad experience at this place. First, slow service. Couldn't get seated because the only visible server was having a long chat with some folks. Once we got seated (and the place was nearly empty) it took another 20 minutes just to get water. The server was overbearing and patronizing. When I told him I didn't want tabouli (I'm low carb), he asked me if I even knew what tabouli was. Rude! When we got our appetizer, the server picked up the pita bread in his hands to demonstrate how to put the various ingredients into it to make a little sandwich. As if he couldn't have just told us that. Then when he made mine, as a joke he started to walk away with it, which would have been just fine with me since I had no idea if he had washed his hands or not. Unfortunately he returned with the bread he had handled extensively. This is just gross since we saw him to the same for another table and clearly he didn't wash his hands in between doing all sorts of other stuff. The bread was cold and not fresh. One of the best reasons to eat this sort of food is the warm, soft bread decent places offer. Can't they even warm the pita bread they apparently bought from the day-old bread store? Our dinners, which were both lamb/chicken shwarma were also well below par with similar restaurants. Just mediocre with no flavor. Also, when my mother said thanks at the cash register, the server told her to address him as "sweetie". Sorry, that is just too forward and lacking basic respect. We're customers, not buddies. Overall a very disappointing experience and fairly expensive too. Choose any other middle Eastern restaurant and you'll be much happier. Or, try a food cart, at least they won't charge you $50 for a terrible lunch for two.
(1)Sharon M.
Been a fan of Jerusalem Café since it opened downtown. I crave the chicken on fire sandwich and my spouse loves the garlic fish or chicken. This is a family business that began on Evergreen Blvd. near Main and then expanded as the brothers took over for their parents. I didn't give them 5 stars because the prices have increased, like everywhere, but the portions have shrunk below what this hearty eater wants. Their style of service still reflects their roots in Lebanon and Israel where dining is unrushed and a social occasion. There is a playfulness and chattiness service style that we enjoy along with the excellent food. Most menu items can be made into pita sandwiches and I recommend trying that. Gotta stop, I'm salivating all over the keyboard and need to head over to the Jerusalem Café closest to me on 516 SE Chkalov Dr. for a chicken on fire sandwich..
(4)Mac U.
Been eating here over 10 years, either this location or the original downtown Vancouver one. The food is great, the service is good. I agree that they've drastically cut the portion sizes, don't know why. It's usually sufficient, though sometimes we still walk away hungry. They have the BEST falafel balls in town, light and crunchy, highly recommended. What's been drastically cut is the portion size of the vegetable side dishes, which are the restaurant's best feature. Tiny, tiny amounts to put into the pita bread, put onto tiny plates which the entire table has to share. Awkward to do in a group, so nobody ever feels like they've had enough. The pita bread tastes store-bought and is nothing special. If you want fantastic pita bread go to Nicholas in Portland, but their sides aren't as nice, and good luck with the parking.
(5)Mike S.
I'm in town on business. Found this place. Very informal. Had to get the hummus. The server asked if it was my first time there. He delivered the appetizer, then grabbed my fork and showed me how to prepare it. I'm glad he did. I got the nightly special. He also said everything was a special..just ask. Great food! I might be back this week.
(5)Clint R.
F wording delicious food. Calming atmosphere. Excellent personal service. I ordered the garlic chicken and a side of hummus. The owner showed me that their food is meant to be eaten all together. Add each part if the dish to a pita. An explosion of flavor. These guys know what they're doing and are very personable. I will definitely be back.
(5)Dennis K.
Excellent food, wonderful value, a personal touch to the dishes made this a dinner to savor and remember! The toppings for the hot pita bread were excellent (could gave been happy with them alone), but then the main entree of broiled garlic chicken topped with a dash of hot sauce: marvelous! The tabbouli and cucumber salad were complimentary and just right in terms of portions! Do save room for their baklava: I've had my share of overly sweet, overly hard offerings, but this one was flaky, buttery, with a perfect balance of pistachio and honey/savory that just melted in your mouth. Negatives? There could have been more patrons! Otherwise, a meal to remember and friendly staff that was low keyed but there when you needed them. I'll be back!
(5)Tracy M.
I've eaten at the downtown location for years and just tried this location tonight. The decor is a little nicer here and the staff is just as fun and outgoing. But I like the food Downtown better. I ordered the salmon and was disappointed by a very small piece of overcooked tilapia. My rice was cold and clumpy. And I thought they skimped a bit on the hummus, potato salad and cabbage which are always my favorite part of the experience. My companion ordered the kebabs which were savory, juicy and hot. There was plenty enough for us to split so at the end of it all I was satisfied with the meal. We shared a piece of buttery, flaky baklava and Turkish coffee which was strong, thick and satisfying. I love Jerusalem so next time I'll be sure to hit the downtown location where I've never had a miss!
(3)Stan Z.
Absolutely fantastic food and great service. Anton & Maisa really take pride in their restaurant and it truly shows! Food portions are just perfect and absolutely delicious. I will definitely be back and would recommend this place to anyone who enjoys the Mediterranean fare. Ordering seconds....
(5)Ginger M.
The ONLY place in my life where the food was so come-to-Jesus good that I came back the very next day and ate there again. Now I'm a reg and they know me by sight. I bring friends to Jerusalem Cafe and expectantly watch as reactions of joy and bliss come to their faces. The chicken shawarma is sooooo good that I ate there probably six times before I could manage to tear myself away enough to order something else. The babaganooj is outstanding. The baklava is exceptional. Well, I've not had anything that wasn't mind-blowing. I have no idea how they get their meat that tender and juicy; let's just say you could cut it with a spoon. As others have mentioned below, the male owner (very big dude with a booming voice) might take it upon himself to come to your table and manhandle your pita bread to teach you the proper way to combine the food together. Some people may find this offputting. He means well -- and the food takes on an AH-MAZING to-all-new-heights synergistic relationship with itself when you actually do it the way he shows. But if you don't want him touching your junk (although it must be pointed out that he was the one who just put it all together in the back and, in so doing, touched it then), I recommend doing a body block of your plate. One thing the owners did tell me: The flavor profile here is different than what you'll get at another type of Middle Eastern, say Lebanese, restaurant. This is authentic food from Jerusalem. Not only is the technique for cooking the meat different, but so are the spices used. This might explain why a friend told me once this place was just "okay." The joint is a no-frills mom-'n'-pop-in-a-strip-mall-in-a-lower-middle-Âclass-neighborhood-with-the-wife/owner/waitress-Âsinging-along-to-traditional-music-and-plastic-Âflowers-as-decor sort of operation. It is beyond me why this place isn't packed constantly. Jerusalem Cafe on Chkalov is my favorite restaurant in Vancouver.
(5)Shawn L.
One word describes this place. Wow!!! The lamb and chicken lunch special is amazing. We will be back
(5)James L.
Words cannot even begin to describe the joy that my tongue experienced at this establishment. If you dont at least open the door and let your nose travel to utopia, you mighy have issues in the head.
(5)Just Ask J.
First time here, Wanted something different. This is a great small place and food is excellent. Very healthy and flavorful. Minus a star as meat veal was a little tough, but the taste more then made up for that. Well worth a visit for some great healthy food that's different. Great friendly atomsphere!
(4)Cody B.
We got food to go. The service was friendly and the restaurant was clean. I got the lamb and chicken garlic lemon special for the evening and my husband got the saniha. The saniha was too over seasoned, it was inedible and we shared my DELICIOUS special. The appetizers that came with the dinners was light and refreshing, a nice change from the ordinary dinner salad. I will go back, it's a nice change of flavors but a learning of the menu is in need.
(3)N B.
I have always used yelp for finding new restaurants and never did I think that I need to make an account for me to say that the customer service completely sucked at Jerusalem café. I always get take out but I have never in my life been treated the way I was just treated on the phone by Antoine. I asked the difference between the shish kabob and the shawarma. he said one was grilled and one was charbroiled. I asked which one is prepared which way. I said, okay, I don't want the shawarma and he kept trying to sell me on it. I kept saying NO I want the "shish kabob" and not the "shawarma" he kept correcting the way I said it, obliviously he knew what I was saying and he didn't need to spell it out to me like I was in fourth grade. shÄwarmÄ isn't hard to say. Either he is a damn retard or a f***ing idiot. Antoine can decide. Good luck to them because I will not be ordering from them any longer.
(1)Juliet V.
I have nothing but great things to say about this restaurant, the food is pretty awesome and I can't say that about a lot of restaurants here in Vancouver. Sorry to say I've had way better in California where I'm from originally. I'm a regular at Jerusalem Cafe and thank goodness I don't live too close by otherwise I would be broke, because I could literally have their food everyday. The owners are great, very hospitable. If you're lucky, you'll catch the big guy singing to some of the traditional radio that's playing in the background. He's a very good singer. I usually start off with the hummus and order the chicken kabob with rice, I've tried the lamb, falafel, Jerusalem hot tea, very excellent, the Turkish coffee, kofta kabob and Garlic chicken... All to die for. Prices are reasonable and really worth what you're getting. I've tried similar restaurants in Portland that don't even compare to Jerusalem Cafe. Something about the way they prepare or grill their meats, really retains all the flavors, very juicy. I recommend this place definitely. It reminds me of some of the really great Mediterranean /Middle Eastern food located in and around San Francisco Bay and Silicon Valley California.
(5)Dorin N.
Food was alright (I had lamb shawarma). Considering the multitude of customers ( three, myself included) the service was in need of some "TLC".
(3)Megan B.
The service here is almost always awful. Extremely unprofessional. The food isn't served hot enough. This restaurant used to be a lot better a few years back.
(2)jonathon k.
took my mom to the chaklov location to check the place out. The restaurant is very clean, the workers nice. It -put me off a bit to have the server grab the sign showing the specials and pound it down on the floor to show us, but whatever. tried the babaganooj. It was okay, but the pita bread was store bought, cold and hard. Mom hated it and so my search for yummy lebanese food in vancouver continues.
(2)Colette W.
My mom daughter and I have gone twice now... and have had about 1/3 their lunch menu between us... Not a thing has been mediocre... we are fans... and will be at the least monthly customers.... this is as good as it gets!
(5)A E.
Hidden wonder! I just moved to the area this year and I drive past this place ever day. I have been wanting to try it for a long time and I am SOOOO sorry I waited so long. The people here are great, you feel welcome, they educate you about the food and what you get, and they don't try to up sell anything. The meals come with a assortment of appetizers with fresh warm pitta bread, I suggest ordering the humas to go with all of this, we did and the humas is STELLER! ME: Garlic Chick - TO DIE FOR! The chicken is thin, tender, and juicy. The flavor is AMAZING! I don't really like chicken, but if chicken tasted like this all the time, I would eat it every day! It comes with an amazing rice medley, tomato and herb combination salad. FRIEND: Lamb, I don't like lamb, I always think it has a sharp taste to it, but this didn't I tried it and it was also AMAZING. It was tender, moist, and lots of herb and seasoned flavor. It was also served with the rice medley and tomato herb salad. One of the owners over heard another customer say they didn't like rice. He made a point to go back and get her a small side of rice to just try. He said, "just try it". She LOVED it. Turkish Coffee: Also extremely good. The Price: It was cheap compared to how much you got and how good it was. $40 for both meals, coffee, and wine.
(5)David M.
As soon as the mumbling, surly "waiter" brought the room temperature, store bought pitas to the table, I knew this joint was going to disappoint. The place was almost dead at 1pm lunch rush, which we should of taken as a sign. We mentioned it was our first time in, which most decent restaurants would take as an opportunity to explain lunch specials or specialties..not here. This dude just wanted to leave, sorry we wanted to grace you with my money. The chicken kabob was bland, the lamb was a weird hamburger patty smothered in earthy tasting goop, everything else tasted pickled. I was expecting some flavor, spices, mint, dill, something. Tabouli= sour, salad= how do you ruin a 3 ingredient salad?, rice= try a Chinese food place, then pickle the rest to hide any sort of flavor. Between the two of us, a dozen different items, and 3 different tastes. Unwelcome vibe, big prices, crap food. Don't bother.
(1)Ian S.
A tasty explosion of mediterranean flavors served by individuals who really couldn't care less about your conceptions of what wait staff is supposed to be. Service is prompt and sassy. They'll answer any questions you have, but don't expect olive garden type ass kissing. Food is flavorful and well portioned, with a good variety of different meats and veggies. Their humus is tasty and I'm a big fan of their tabbouleh. Prices are eminently reasonable. Just remember, they march to the ebat of a different drummer.
(4)Sindhur S.
I took off the one star as the quantity seemed to be 1/2 of nicholas and persian house in portland which are good middle eastern restuarent's. Rest of that the food is really awesome.I ordered chicken shawarma and felt the same way the critic feel's in ratatouille,though it didn't remind me of my mother's food :) .I would have been really impressed if the quantity was a little more ,due to which i went for a second order (falafal) which came to a reasonable price though.
(4)Jason T.
5 stars, the food was great and service wonderful. Period.... We arrived for lunch and tried 3 different dishes. Each of them were wonderful. The service is warm and not overbearing. One word of warning for people that are afraid of new experiences, the servers will explain AND show you the best way to assemble certain dishes. This means they will handle your food while explaining. This caught me off guard since I am not used to seeing domestically. Aboard its certainly common and more accepted. Try it and enjoy! I will be returning.
(5)Whitney G.
Every time I've been here, the food and service have been out of this world. Always quick to offer up the specials or some of their favorites. And always with a smile.
(5)Garrett J.
I really enjoyed coming here. I had a delicious falafel and lamb. Absolutely amazing food. The lamb kabobs were also amazing. I'll come back again
(5)Lisa H.
Ordered the special which was a chicken and lamb dish with veggies over rice. It was ok but the meat wasn't well trimmed and unfortunately had bits of fat attached. The texture was extremely off putting. The waiter also felt it necessary to show me how to eat my really cold pita and condiments by picking up the pita with his bare hands off my plate, mixing the condiments together and slopping it on the pita then handing it back to me. I don't think I'll be back...
(2)Michelle B.
They had excellent service. The cook/ server was very friendly and interactive. He kindly showed us how you are properly suppose to eat the appetizer and went over the menu with us since it was our first time. I got the lamb and chicken special and it was delicious and my boyfriend got the chicken and beef and it was just as wonderful. Next time he suggested the garlic chicken so I'll be trying that next. Everything was so flavorful and delicious. Going back here again very soon!
(5)Dwayne P.
The food was pretty tasty but the lunch portions were small for the amount charged. I had the garlic chicken and the piece of chicken was super thin and only 3"x4" at best. Another thing that bugged me about this place was the pita was delivered in an unlined wicker basket, gross! I don't want hundreds of other people's hands where my food is.
(3)Sheryl J.
I admit that I'm not brave about trying foods that aren't in the American, Italian or Mexican categories but we had a coupon for Jerusalem Cafe so decided to try it. Wow! I was pleasantly surprised. The service is great. Very attentive and not gushy. We were greeted by the owner and immediately seated. He gave us some menu suggestions, which we followed. Our food arrived quickly. He showed us the best way to assemble one of the dishes. What a bunch of wonderful flavors! The beef, pork & chicken special is amazing. We liked everything we ordered. They have a nice house Cabernet Sauvignon. We liked the atmosphere too. We will definitely be back.
(4)Erin K.
I was a little worried about the authenticity of this restaurant but the food was fabulous. The menu provides a variety of foods that are both full meals and lighter meals. The restaurant is very clean, the owners are nice and willing to joke with you as well as offer insight on the food, and the decor is just appropriate for this restaurant. I recommend the falafel and anything lamb. You can dine in or take out. You must try the Jerusalem Cafe.
(5)Marie M.
Wow!! I don't know if they read my recent review, or what. I just ate there again tonight with my husband for the first time in awhile, and I am thrilled with the noticeable changes. Very clean and new feeling, and it made me feel very comfortable. Friendly service, and the food was also very delicious, as usual. Love this place, and will be going back soon.
(4)Steven B.
I have been eating here for years. There are more fancy, finer mediterranean restaurants in the Portland area, but this place is still worth visiting. If I recall correctly, the family that started the business are Christian Palestinians and used to have restaurants in Haifa before coming to the United States. So this is pretty authentic to the Israel/Palestine region. The chicken kabobs are very tender white meat, never dry or stringy. The shish tawouk is my favorite. Note, they don't bring you a check when you are done eating. Simply go to the register when you are ready to pay.
(4)Kate G.
Great food, good service, just all around great :-)
(4)Leah N.
I just finished eating takeout from Jerusalem Cafe. My husband and I order the Mazza family platter, which is enough for us to have dinner with leftovers for lunch. I've had other dishes in the past, and I've always enjoyed them. The food is well spiced, and very fresh. The portions are very generous in my opinion. Service has always been familiar and friendly, and the speed is perfect for ordering takeout. I never wait longer than 10 minutes.
(4)Chris M.
Always a treat.
(5)Cailyn T.
Super friendly and good food; however -2 stars seemed a little less than average in all other categories. Portion to cost ratio wasn't up to standard and on the dirty side.
(3)kelly s.
wow, what a shady joint. I came here out of morbid curiosity when I was craving a felafel like none other. First of all, the restaurant itself is super random, but once I get over the strangeness of the space, I'm confronted with like a $12 dollar bill for a felafel sandwich and a coke....ummm What really soured the experience was that it took forever to concoct what ultimately turned out to be grocery store pita with freezing cold pickles slathered all over a medium warm dried up little felafel nugget. -2 stars
(2)Pam J.
Still a place I love, but don't get to very often. Maybe that's good, I won't tire of it. My hubby ordered a pork special and the seasonings were so awesome. I had the Schwarma plate that was very tasty. My daughter was going to go safe with a burger, and the owner told her she needed to try something different, ha. Thank you sir, she loved what he made for her. He even took her fork and took a stab at her dads plate for her to try it. She did, and admitted finally that she needs to trust us more and try new things. Since this night she has been more adventurous with food. So thanks to this owner for turning a culinary corner with my kiddo. This cafe has been around for years and I hope it stays for many more. Especially with the strip mall being renovated.
(5)David R.
I have eaten here twice now and twice I have come out smelling like greasy smoke. I don't think their ventilation system is working properly. The food here is below average. I don't think they make their own pita, it tastes like they microwaved someone else's pita. Their Humus and Babaganoush is not very flavorful and their Falafel was over cooked and mealy. The wait staff is friendly but not remarkable. I won't be back
(2)Windy S.
When you need a good Mediterranean fix, this is a great place. We have been coming here for 3 or 4 years now and we absolutely love the food and the owner! They start you off with pita bread and a variety of small plates to fill the pitas with! Definitely the perfect way to start the meal. Sometimes we'll add the hummus to come with these. Our favorite dishes: Shish Tawouk (husband's favorite), Shish Kabob sandwich (lamb) (mine and our daughters favorite w/side of rice) and the chicken or lamb kabobs. The rice is pretty darn good. If I could have one request, it would be for them to serve homemade pita bread like Hoda. We love coming in and and being greeted by the owner every time, he's super personable and always remembers what we usually order!
(4)Steve L.
Stopped in for dinner one evening a month ago. The owner was charming and a cutup. We enjoyed our banter with him. He made us feel welcome, nice touch. The food was tasty. Had the Hummus appetizer and Lamb Kabob and Falafel for dinner. Very enjoyable. Since the meals came with Hummus, I wouldn't order it again, as we had plenty with our meals. I'd go back again.
(4)Mike C.
This place is amazing. I have been to so many places in the Mediterranean; & enjoyed some amazing food. This is easily on par. If you've never had Mediterranean food or even been to the Med, this is a great local place to to do it. As close as I believe you'll get. If you HAVE been to the Med...this will take you right back. And enjoyably so.
(5)Alex B.
This restaurant would cater to people that have acquired the taste for these types of food. The dish I ordered with vegetarian "meatballs" was probably some frozen food - thawed, heated and served.
(1)Cristen T.
My vegetarian options here are somewhat limited but I was excited to see other yelpers praising the great falafel dishes. I had never had a falafel before in my life and was pleasantly surprised when I ordered the falafel sandwich. It was packed with flavor and very filling. I enjoyed their pita bread as well. It was soft and chewy and not the least bit dry. My boyfriend had a lamb dish (Shawarma) and said that it was very good. He made the comment about the lamb being perfectly cooked. After he sampled a bit of the sandwich I ordered, he was sold and informed me that when we go back, that's what he'll be having. The service there was good. Our water glasses were always full and our food was prepared quickly. The decor is simple and pleasant- though the music seemed a bit loud while we were there. When you are done with your dining experience, at this restaurant, you go to the register; you don't wait to have it brought to your table. All in all, this pleasant little restaurant was a good find. The staff there are very friendly. This type of food doesn't really appeal to me, but I have a favorite (and how lucky to find it the first time!) that I will order again whenever we go back.
(4)Evan L.
Nice place. GREAT food & Service. Resonably priced. I'm from out of the area but will return again! Try it! I don't think you'll regret it.
(5)Sean G.
I was generally satisfied with the food here. I visited for lunch and had a chicken sandwich which had lots of seasoned chicken meat, interesting crunchy vegetables, and a great sour/savory sauce. There was reportedly hummus inside as well, although I didn't notice that particularly. My brother had some lamb and hummus dish, and I was able to try that as well. It was also very good, their hummus was light and creamy. I didn't like it as much as the hummus from Habibi or El Amir, but it was still very good... my brother thought it was better than either of those places. The prices were moderate and in line for the amount of food you receive. The service was very friendly, from the guy who hurried over to seat us to the young man who served as our waiter. The guy running the register at the end of the meal seemed to be a little distracted, but I will give him a break since everyone else was so nice. The best part of the meal was the dessert, I had a piece of their baklava to go. It was incredible and well worth the modest $2 they ask. It's worth going just for that! Well, if it wasn't so far away it would be. :)
(4)Garrett B.
Best hummus I've ever had, best falafel I've ever had, excellent vegetarian options. Friendly, prompt service, and cool middle eastern music to listen to while you eat.
(5)Christopher H.
I love this place! About 10-12 years ago, I first experienced Jerusalem Cafe, in downtown Vancouver. It was my first run-in with such a style of food. I was vegetarian at the time, and was quickly addicted to their falafel. Now that I have graduated to real food, I expanded to their meat dishes as well. I love the atmosphere here, and the friendly, but casual attitude of the owners. They are great people and they produce great eats! Go there and enjoy a taste of Israel!!
(4)Bill P.
Some of the best food I've ever had... The hummus is great, and the entree I had (the special) was AMAZING. Owner is a very nice guy. Even tried to give me free Baklava. Such an awesome restaurant.
(5)Andrew Y.
Great Mediterranean food. Over the years I've tried just about everything on the menu and haven't had a bad dish yet. My personal favorite is their falafel (best eaten, imo, in a sandwich). Oh, and their Turkish Salad is *amazing*. One of these days, I'm going to go all Mission Impossible on them, break in and steal the recipe. And while I'm there, I'll stock up on tabouli. And grab some baclava (made properly, with pistachios rather than el-cheapo walnut!). And a mug of mint tea. And then I'll pay, 'cuz stealing (even Mission Impossible style) is wrong and these guys deserve every penny.
(5)Juan M.
It's hard to write a review about this place because I've been coming here for years and Anton is such a charming guy, it almost feels like doing a friend a favor to do a five star review. But man... I would give Jerusalem Cafe five stars even if I was asked to never come back (which has happened on several occasions... jokingly of course). This place is that good. Truly a strip mall gem, one of my favorite places to eat in the world and definitely my favorite in Vancouver. The hummus is the best I've ever had, the falafel are perfectly crisped balls of awesome and the tabouli salad is simple but so fresh the parsley crunches in your mouth. The other sides are OK (pickled cabbage and babaganooj), but mainly serve as filler for the kickin' rad pitas pocket sandwiches I assemble from my entrees. Chicken on Fire doesn't conjure up the best visual in my head but it may be the best charbroiled chicken I've ever had. It's marinated in angel tears, probably. The Hummus Bel-Laham feels ostentatious because you get a generous pile of hummus with deliciously seared meat piled on it. And oh.. the Jerusalem Special. Service is prompt; I've never been kept waiting even during a lunch rush. Great atmosphere... there's always some catchy pop music in Arabic playing. If you're unfamiliar with Mediterranean food and shy about it, many of the dinner entrees are available in sandwich form for about $6, which is what I generally do for lunch. Go eat!
(5)Hailey H.
Make sure they give you an itemized bill, especially if you have a coupon, or you will end up paying more than you expected. food is good but they are a little shaddy
(2)Sally B.
Excellent food - service was fun :) Will definitely go back next time we are in the area!
(5)Katrina B.
The owner is very funny and makes you feel extremely welcome. The food has been great every time I have gone. It's nice to find good food in Vancouver for a change.
(4)Terah W.
Absolutely wonderful and friendly service...falafel, hummus and lamb were fabulous! Will certainly look forward to many more visits!!
(5)Jonathan S.
This is easily my favorite place to eat in Vancouver. I go here at least once everything time i visit. I usually order one of the sandwiches as are very filling and super affordable. I recommend the Jerusalem Cafe to any one whom is hungry.
(5)A F.
Great food, nice staff. True sit-down restaurant where they always remember my name and tastes. Nice place.
(5)Soror G.
My husband and I always have a great time here and we LOVE THE SERVICE!
(5)Dominick H.
Yech! Food heated by microwave. Waiter or what I assumed was the owner belched and smacked his lips at our table ( he just got done stuffing his face), When we entered we needed to wait until the waiter/owner and the cook were done with their bite of food. We could see them in the kitchen with their own table placed so they could see into the dinning room....but we could see them too...(I thought it may have been a chefs table...boy was I wrong...)......lol.....Even when we were greeted he was smacking his lips and poorly dressed as if he just got off the dish machine. We heard the microwave door close and then the buzzer/bell go off and then our food arrived. The lemonade had no ice nor did we get any water and the lemonades were delivered in the middle of our meal and they were anything but cold.....We thought about leaving but I guess our manners got the best of us...we just wanted to get out...and for the money it simply was not worth it at all....could have been a lot better and actually showed promise...until we walked in the door......this was the strangest experience we have had in a long time.
(1)Jennifer S.
Tasty, tasty, tasty. I had the falafel sandwich and my partner had some sort of lamb dish. Everything was fresh and the staff are really nice. A nice departure from the usual TGI-Applebees fare in the 'Couve. We'll be back.
(4)