Israel is a land of diverse flavors and unique traditions, and its coffee culture is no exception. When stepping into an Israeli cafe, you’ll find a coffee scene that’s both intriguing and vibrant. To truly immerse yourself in this experience, it’s crucial to understand the different coffee terms and styles used in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee aficionado or simply looking to enjoy a delightful cup, our guide will help you navigate the world of coffee in Israel with ease.
Coffee Culture in Israel
Cafes are not just places to sip on coffee in Israel; they’re havens of culture and community. In Tel Aviv, the thriving cafe scene takes center stage, earning the city the reputation of being the “Cafe Capital of the World.” As you explore the varied cafes in the city, you’ll be exposed to a multitude of flavors and experiences that contribute to this rich coffee culture.
Almost a quarter of Israelis drink four to eight cups of coffee each day, above the world average. Coffee is extremely valued in Israel – from a morning cup to coffee at dinner or even coffee outdoors – Israelis drink coffee in many different forms.
Deciphering the Coffee Lingo
Ordering a coffee in Israel is actually a bit different than in other places around the world, and using the wrong description might result in an unexpected surprise. So, before ordering your first cup-a-joe in Israel, understand the lingo:
When it comes to espresso, Israeli cafes offer various options:
- A “regular espresso” (in Hebrew: espresso ragil) equates to a short Italian-style espresso.
- A “long espresso” (espresso arokh) provides a similar experience to a regular espresso.
- A “double espresso” (espresso kaful) treats you to a double dose of regular espresso.
But the difference doesn’t stop here.
An “americano” mirrors its American counterpart, combining espresso with hot water.
A “cappuccino” presents the classic blend of espresso and frothy milk, available in varying sizes.
An “ice coffee” (ice cafe) offers a refreshing option, perfect for cooling down during hot months. similar to the American Frappuccino, blending cold coffee with milk, sugar, and ice, not to be confused with the normal “coffee with ice”.
“Cafe Kar” presents an Israeli twist on iced lattes.
“Cafe Hafuk“, translating to “upside-down coffee,” offers a latte-style experience.
“Cafe Turki,” or Turkish coffee, delivers a strong, dark-roasted brew with a lemony undertone.
“Nes” in Hebrew means miracle, a fitting term for instant coffee that miraculously dissolves into water. Although initially branded by Nestle, the most common “nes cafe” in Israel is from the Elite brand, offering a surprisingly flavorful instant coffee experience.
“Nes al Chalav” combines instant coffee with hot milk for a unique yet lesser-known choice. Although rarely ordered, it’s an interesting take on coffee indulgence.
Other options, less common but ones you might see in menus across the Cafes in Israel:
“Chocolata” provides a thick, rich chocolatey treat akin to Spanish hot chocolate.
“Nana Tea” / “Te Im Nana” introduces herbal teas, often featuring fragrant wild herbs like Mediterranean spearmint.
“Cider Cham,” or hot spiced cider, presents a delightful way to stay warm with freshly juiced apples and aromatic spices.
Conclusion
Ordering coffee in Israel is an adventure in itself, reflecting the country’s diversity and creativity. From strong Turkish coffee to innovative twists on classic brews, the coffee culture here offers something for every palate. So, whether you’re sipping on a “Cafe Hafuch” or enjoying the unique “Nescafe” experience, each cup tells a story of tradition and innovation in the heart of Israel’s cafe scene. Take your time, explore the menu, and savor every moment of your journey through Israeli coffee culture.
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