Anna Italian Cafe is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Jerusalem. The restaurant specializes in Italian cuisine, with a kosher dairy menu that includes fish but not meat. Anna Italian Cafe has received positive reviews from customers, with many praising the quality of the food and the friendly service.
The restaurant’s rustic chic dining room features sturdy wooden tables and chairs, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The portions served are perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and the lemon pie is highly recommended by many customers. The restaurant’s menu also includes a variety of pasta dishes, salads, and desserts, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients.
Overall, Anna Italian Cafe is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for delicious Italian cuisine in Jerusalem. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, the restaurant’s menu has something for everyone. With its friendly service, cozy atmosphere, and mouth-watering dishes, Anna Italian Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy a memorable dining experience.
History of Anna
Anna Italian Cafe is located in the historic Ticho House in Jerusalem. The house was built in 1864 by a Jewish doctor and was later purchased by the Ticho family in 1924. The Ticho family was known for their contributions to the cultural and artistic scene in Jerusalem, and their home became a gathering place for artists, writers, and intellectuals.
Anna Ticho, the daughter of the family, was a renowned artist who lived in the house until her death in 1980. She was known for her drawings of Jerusalem and her love for the city. Her artwork can be seen throughout the house, including in the cafe.
In 1984, the Ticho House was converted into a museum and cultural center, with the cafe opening its doors in 2000. The cafe is named after Anna Ticho and pays homage to her legacy. It has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, known for its delicious Italian cuisine and charming atmosphere.
Today, the Ticho House and Anna Italian Cafe continue to be an important part of Jerusalem’s cultural landscape, providing a space for art, music, and community events.
Location and Ambiance
Anna Italian Cafe is located in Ticho House, at 10 Ha-Rav Agan, Jerusalem. The building itself is a 200-year-old stone villa that was once the home of the artist Anna Ticho. The restaurant is situated on the top floor of the historic building, providing a stunning view of the city.
The ambiance of Anna Italian Cafe is warm and inviting. The interior is decorated with a combination of Italian and Israeli influences, creating a unique and cozy atmosphere. The walls are adorned with artwork and photographs, adding to the charm of the restaurant. The lighting is dim, creating a relaxed and intimate setting.
The outdoor terrace is a highlight of the restaurant, providing a beautiful view of the city. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal during the warmer months. The terrace is decorated with greenery and flowers, adding to the overall ambiance.
The staff at Anna Italian Cafe are friendly and welcoming, providing excellent service to their customers. They are knowledgeable about the menu and are happy to make recommendations. The restaurant is suitable for both casual and formal occasions, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Overall, Anna Italian Cafe provides a unique dining experience in a historic building with a warm and inviting ambiance.
Menu Highlights
Anna Italian Cafe offers a variety of Italian and Kosher dishes that are sure to please any palate. Here are some of the highlights from their menu:
Sea Bass
The Sea Bass at Anna is a must-try for seafood lovers. Cooked to perfection, this dish is served with a side of roasted vegetables and a flavorful sauce that complements the fish perfectly.
Pappardelle
If you’re in the mood for pasta, the Pappardelle at Anna is a great choice. This dish features wide, flat noodles that are cooked al dente and served with a rich tomato sauce and fresh Parmesan cheese.
Gnocchi
For something a little different, try the Gnocchi at Anna. These soft, pillowy potato dumplings are served with a creamy sauce and fresh herbs, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Tiramisu
No Italian meal is complete without dessert, and the Tiramisu at Anna is a standout. This classic dessert features layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder.
Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, pasta, or something sweet, Anna Italian Cafe has something for everyone.
Chef’s Profile
Anna’s head chef, Moshiko Gamlieli, is a renowned Israeli chef who has been in the culinary industry for over two decades. He has worked in various restaurants in Israel and has won several awards for his innovative and creative dishes.
Before opening Anna in May 2016, Chef Moshiko renovated the restaurant to give it a modern and elegant look. He wanted to create a space where people could enjoy delicious food in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Chef Moshiko’s cooking style is a fusion of Italian and Israeli cuisine. He uses fresh and locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful dishes that are both healthy and satisfying. His signature dishes include homemade pasta, seafood risotto, and lamb chops with rosemary sauce.
Aside from being a talented chef, Chef Moshiko is also passionate about helping young people. He has partnered with several organizations to provide training and employment opportunities for disadvantaged youths. Anna Italian Cafe is a social enterprise that supports this cause by providing apprenticeships and job opportunities for young people who want to pursue a career in the culinary arts.
Overall, Chef Moshiko’s dedication to his craft and his commitment to helping others make Anna Italian Cafe a unique and inspiring place to dine.
Customer Reviews
Anna Italian Cafe has received numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers. Many praise the restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and attentive staff, as well as the delicious food. Here are some examples of customer reviews:
- “The food was amazing and the staff was so friendly and welcoming. We felt like we were part of the family!” – Sarah, TripAdvisor
- “Anna’s is a must-visit if you’re in Jerusalem. The pasta dishes are out of this world and the tiramisu is to die for!” – David, Yelp
- “I was blown away by the quality of the food and the warmth of the staff. This place is a gem!” – Rachel, Google Reviews
Customers also appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to social enterprise. By providing opportunities to deprived youths, Anna Italian Cafe is making a positive impact on the community. This mission is reflected in the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Overall, customers consistently rave about the delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff at Anna Italian Cafe. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, pizza, or a sweet treat, this restaurant is sure to leave you satisfied and smiling.
Awards and Recognition
Anna Italian Café has received numerous awards and recognitions for its outstanding food and service. In 2021, the restaurant was awarded the “Best Italian Restaurant in Jerusalem” by the local food critics. This award is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity in its dishes.
In addition to this, Anna Italian Café has also been recognized for its social enterprise model. The restaurant provides opportunities to deprived youths, giving them a chance to learn valuable skills and gain work experience. This initiative has been recognized by several organizations, including the Jerusalem Foundation and the Israeli Ministry of Social Affairs and Social Services.
Anna Italian Café has also been featured in several international publications, including the Los Angeles Times and the Evening Standard. These articles have praised the restaurant’s innovative approach to Italian cuisine, as well as its commitment to social responsibility.
Overall, Anna Italian Café’s awards and recognitions reflect its dedication to providing exceptional food and service, while also making a positive impact on the local community.
Community Involvement
Anna Italian Café is not just a restaurant, but also a social enterprise that provides opportunities to deprived youths. The restaurant is committed to making a positive impact on the community by giving back and supporting those in need.
The restaurant’s owner, chef, and founder, Yotam Levy, is passionate about community involvement and has made it a core part of his business model. Levy also owns the Talbiyeh restaurant under the Jerusalem Theater and the Wine Bar on Aza Street, both of which are committed to community involvement.
Anna Italian Café provides training and employment opportunities for young adults from underprivileged backgrounds. The restaurant’s staff is made up of individuals who have completed a culinary training program that teaches them the skills they need to succeed in the restaurant industry.
In addition to providing employment opportunities, Anna Italian Café also donates a portion of its profits to local charities and organizations. The restaurant’s commitment to giving back to the community has made it a beloved spot in Jerusalem, not just for its delicious food, but also for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Overall, Anna Italian Café is a shining example of how a restaurant can make a positive impact on its community. By providing training and employment opportunities to young adults and donating to local charities, the restaurant is helping to create a better future for all.
Contact Information
Anna Italian Cafe is located at 10 Ha-Rav Agan Ticho House, Jerusalem, Israel. The restaurant is easily accessible by car and public transportation. Visitors can reach the restaurant by taking a taxi or bus and getting off at the Ticho House stop. The restaurant is open daily, except for Saturdays, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
For those who prefer to contact the restaurant directly, Anna Italian Cafe has a phone number that guests can call to make reservations or ask questions. The phone number for Anna Italian Cafe is +972 2-543-4144. Guests can also visit the restaurant’s website, annarest.co.il, to view the menu, make reservations, or learn more about the restaurant.
In addition, Anna Italian Cafe is active on social media and can be found on Facebook under the name “ANNA – אנה.” Guests can follow the restaurant on Facebook to stay up-to-date on the latest news, events, and promotions. The restaurant also has a presence on Instagram, where guests can view photos of the food and the restaurant’s interior.
Overall, Anna Italian Cafe is easily accessible and has multiple ways for guests to contact the restaurant. Whether guests prefer to call, visit the website, or follow the restaurant on social media, Anna Italian Cafe is always ready to provide friendly service and answer any questions guests may have.
