Best restaurants in Ramallah old town

Ramallah’s Old Town (Downtown Ramallah) is more than just a historic neighborhood—it’s a culinary hive buzzing with cozy cafés, traditional grills, and stylish dining. Whether you’re craving kunafeh, a refreshing smoothie, a soulful plate of musakhan, or a lively bar experience, Ramallah’s Old Town has something for every palate.

Let me walk you through the very best spots that should be on your food map.

Must-Visit Food & Drink Spots in Old Ramallah

Rukab’s Ice Cream

• A legendary favorite in Ramallah, especially loved for its refreshing flavored scoops.
• “Love it!” and “Great ice cream, great location…” rave reviewers (Tripadvisor).
• Ideal stop during a stroll through the charming Old Town streets.

Aker Sweets

• Home to reportedly the “best kunafeh in Palestine” (Tripadvisor).
• Don’t miss this when you want something deeply sweet, traditionally indulgent, and quintessentially Palestinian.

Taghmeeseh

• A hidden gem offering rich Arabic flavors in a cozy setting.
• Reviewers praise it as the “Best Palestinian food restaura…” (Tripadvisor).

Darna

• Perfect for family meals or group dinners.
• Loved for its warm ambiance: “Nice ambience, great food” and “crispy chicken burger, healthy…” (Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor).
• A relaxed Mediterranean spot that balances flavor with comfort and style.

Pronto

• A crowd favorite for casual dining.
• Reviewers call it “a gem!”, “Best spaghetti in Ramallah!” and ideal for lunches or dinners out (Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor).
• Think cozy, convenient, and reliably delicious.

Capers

• Nestled near Birzeit University, a bit beyond Old Town yet well worth a detour for its refined Mediterranean and European menus.
• Hailed as “Finest restaurant in Ramallah” with “great food, great service” (Tripadvisor).

Comfort Soup

• A healthy, homely eatery tucked below apartments in downtown Ramallah.
• Virtually a love letter to homemade comfort: “The best place in Ramallah where it feels and tastes like home!” (Tripadvisor).

Zeit ou Zaater

• Healthy Arabic-European fusion fare.
• Known for being busy but popular and praised for good service in English (Tripadvisor).

Local Favorites Mentioned by Ramallah Lovers

Gathering insights from the vibrant voices on Reddit enhances this guide’s authenticity and flavor:

“Les Saj on St. James St hands down!”
“Yafa Cafe a close second” (Reddit)

These local cafes guarantee flavorful bites and genuine neighborhood character.

“Baraka Pita Bakery on Main St is phenomenal” (Reddit)

Another must for anyone craving outstanding pita and authentic street‑food energy.

Suggested Exploring & Dining Map

Here’s how to savor your day in Old Ramallah the Ramallah‑lover way:

• Start with a hearty breakfast (croissant & coffee mentioned by travelers) near Al‑Manara Square (Reddit).
• Make your way to sweet heavens: Aker Sweets for kunafeh, followed by artisanal Rukab’s Ice Cream.
• Grab a savory lunch at Darna, Taghmeeseh, or Pronto—each brings something unique to the table.
• Prefer light healthy fare? Try Comfort Soup or Zeit ou Zaater.
• For waffle or pita cravings, don’t skip Les Saj or Baraka Pita—local legends worth the taste.

Why These Places Shine

1. Flavor meets culture—Each spot serves more than a meal; it delivers heritage, regional ingredients, and culinary storytelling.
2. Welcoming ambiance—From cozy cafés to friendly diners, many are deeply rooted in the local community.
3. Range of options—Whether you’re looking for sweet, savory, hearty, or healthy, Old Ramallah offers a satisfying palette.
4. Local love—These recommendations come from both travelers and residents who eat here frequently.

Final Delicious Thoughts

Ramallah Old Town is a culinary treasure waiting to be tasted. From world-famous kunafeh to local pita gems and cozy cafés, each block holds a sensory surprise.

Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt or a traveler craving cultural connection, this guide will lead you to the most memorable bites in town.

Dining Snapshot: Quick Table of Top Picks