Must-Try Foods In Safed Candle Shop (Safed (Tzfat)) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Safed Candle Shop, Safed (Tzfat), Israel

The Safed Candle Shop is not primarily a food destination but is renowned for its beautiful handmade candles and its rich history in the mystical city of Safed, known for its historic synagogues, cobblestone lanes, and artists' colony. However, the food in Safed is an eclectic mix of traditional Jewish cuisines, influenced by the various diasporas that have resettled in Israel, bringing with them Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and Mizrahi culinary traditions. Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences are also strong, with an emphasis on fresh vegetables, cheeses, and herbs.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Safed (Tzfat), Israel for Tourists

Falafel - A deep-fried ball made from ground chickpeas and herbs, commonly served in pita bread. (Veg)

Hummus - A smooth spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. (Veg)

Shakshuka - A dish of poached eggs in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions, often spiced with cumin. (Veg)

Boureka - A flaky pastry filled with cheese, mushrooms, or spinach. (Veg)

Sabra Salad - A salad made from prickly pear cactus fruit, typical to the Galilee region. (Veg)

Labaneh - Thick, strained yogurt that can be served in a variety of ways, often with olive oil and za'atar. (Veg)

Halloumi Cheese - Grilled or fried cheese that has a high melting point, serving as a delicious appetizer or snack. (Veg)

Tabbouleh - A Lebanese salad made of bulgur, finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, and onion, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. (Veg)

Stuffed Grape Leaves - Also known as Dolmas, these are grape leaves stuffed with a mix of rice, pine nuts, and spices. (Veg)

Malawach - A traditional Yemenite bread, similar to a pancake, served with fresh tomato dip, hard-boiled egg, and often with zhug, a spicy chili sauce. (Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Safed (Tzfat), Israel

HaAri 8
Address: HaAri Street 8, Safed, Israel
Famous Food: Kosher Mediterranean cuisine with dishes such as herb-infused fish. (Non-Veg)

Art Coffee Mikael
Address: Alkabetz 4, Artist Colony, Safed, Israel
Famous Food: Freshly brewed coffee and pastries with vegetarian options. (Veg)

Auberge Shulamit
Address: Derech HaRishonim 91, Safed, Israel
Famous Food: Gourmet meals with a variety of pastas and salads, some with cheese. (Veg)

Tree of Life Vegetarian Café
Address: Alkabetz Street, Safed, Israel
Famous Food: Vegetarian and vegan dishes, including homemade soups and salads. (Veg)

Elements Café Restaurant
Address: Jerusalem Street 53, Safed, Israel
Famous Food: A mix of Mediterranean and American-style dishes including vegetarian lasagna. (Veg)

When visiting the Safed Candle Shop, tourists can also walk around the mystic alleyways of Safed to find a variety of eateries and taste the local cuisine. Note that Safed is a city with many kosher establishments, which respects the dietary laws of Judaism and therefore some food items like seafood and pig products are generally not served.