The Eucalyptus is a modern Israeli restaurant located in Jerusalem’s Artist Quarter, just a stone’s throw away from the magnificent walls of old Jerusalem. Owned and led by Chef Moshe Basson, the restaurant serves a modern interpretation of biblical cuisine. The Eucalyptus offers indoor and outdoor seating, with the latter providing picturesque views of the Hutzot Hayotzer artists colony and the Old City walls of Jerusalem.
The Eucalyptus has gained a reputation for its unique approach to Israeli cuisine, incorporating traditional ingredients and flavors in unexpected ways. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by the herbs, spices, and ingredients used in biblical times, and Chef Moshe Basson has spent years researching and experimenting with these ancient flavors to create a truly unique culinary experience. The Eucalyptus is known for its use of local, seasonal ingredients, and many of the dishes on the menu are vegetarian or vegan.
Visitors to The Eucalyptus can expect a dining experience that is both delicious and educational, with each dish telling a story about Israel’s rich culinary history. The restaurant’s intimate setting and stunning views make it the perfect place for a romantic dinner or special occasion, and its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing make it a favorite among foodies and eco-conscious diners alike.
Location and Ambiance
The Eucalyptus restaurant is located in the Artist Quarter of Jerusalem, just a stone’s throw away from the magnificent walls of the Old City. The restaurant is situated in a beautiful 200-year-old building that was once a hostel for pilgrims. The building has been renovated to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a meal with family and friends.
The ambiance of the restaurant is both modern and traditional. The decor features a mix of ancient and contemporary elements, with exposed stone walls and beautiful wooden beams. The lighting is soft and warm, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with beautiful artwork and unique pieces that add to the overall ambiance.
The seating at the restaurant is comfortable and spacious, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The outdoor seating area is surrounded by beautiful greenery and provides a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The indoor seating area is cozy and intimate, with comfortable chairs and tables that are perfect for enjoying a meal.
Overall, the location and ambiance of The Eucalyptus restaurant provide a unique and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a meal with family and friends. The combination of modern and traditional elements creates a warm and welcoming environment that is sure to make diners feel right at home.
History of Eucalyptus
The Eucalyptus restaurant was founded by Moshe Basson, a native of Iraq who moved to Israel with his family as a refugee when he was an infant. Basson’s parents owned a bakery in Jerusalem’s Beit Safafa neighborhood, and cultivated a vegetable garden and raised chickens to supplement their government food rations.
After serving in the Israel Defense Forces, Basson worked as a chef in various restaurants in Israel and Europe before opening his own establishment in 1986. Initially, the restaurant was located in the Talpiot neighborhood of Jerusalem, but in 2008, it moved to its current location in the Artist Quarter of the city.
The restaurant’s name comes from the eucalyptus tree growing in the center of the dining room, which Basson actually planted more than 60 years ago. The tree serves as a symbol of the restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients in its dishes.
Basson’s cuisine is based on the ancient traditions of biblical and Middle Eastern cooking, but he adds his own modern twist to each dish. He is known for using a wide variety of herbs and spices, many of which are grown in the restaurant’s own garden.
Over the years, the Eucalyptus has become one of the most highly regarded restaurants in Jerusalem, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Basson has won numerous awards for his cooking, and the restaurant has been featured in a variety of international publications.
Chef and Staff
The Eucalyptus restaurant in Jerusalem is owned and led by Chef Moshe Basson, who is a renowned culinary expert in Israel. Chef Basson grew up on the southern edge of Jerusalem and has a stockpile of traditional family recipes. He knows the wild herbs and plants that grow around the city like the back of his hand. His passion for biblical cuisine and local ingredients is evident in every dish he creates.
Chef Basson’s team at The Eucalyptus is composed of experienced chefs and professional staff who share his vision and passion for culinary excellence. The kitchen staff is skilled in preparing the traditional dishes of biblical cuisine with a modern twist. They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a unique culinary experience for their guests.
The waitstaff at The Eucalyptus is knowledgeable and attentive, providing excellent service to every guest. They are trained to recommend dishes and wine pairings based on the guest’s preferences and dietary restrictions. The restaurant’s sommelier is also available to assist guests in selecting the perfect wine to complement their meal.
Overall, The Eucalyptus restaurant in Jerusalem is staffed by a team of professionals who are passionate about providing their guests with an exceptional dining experience. Chef Moshe Basson and his team are committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create unique dishes that showcase the flavors and traditions of biblical cuisine.
Menu Highlights
The Eucalyptus restaurant in Jerusalem offers a unique dining experience with a modern interpretation of biblical cuisine. The menu features a variety of traditional soups, salads, tapas-style spreads, and main courses that are sure to satisfy any palate.
One of the menu highlights is the sweet-and-sour meat and eggplant casserole called “Ingria,” which is a popular dish among the restaurant’s regulars. The dish is made with slow-cooked beef, caramelized onions, and roasted eggplant, which are then simmered in a sweet and sour sauce made with tamarind and pomegranate molasses. The result is a rich and flavorful dish that is both sweet and tangy.
Another popular dish is the chicken and rice casserole, which is served with great ceremony. The dish is made with slow-cooked chicken, saffron-infused rice, and a variety of aromatic spices. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the rice is fluffy and fragrant, making it a perfect comfort food.
For vegetarians, the roasted cauliflower steak is a must-try. The dish is made with a thick slice of roasted cauliflower, which is then topped with a savory tahini sauce and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds. The dish is both flavorful and filling, making it a great option for those looking for a meatless meal.
Overall, the menu at The Eucalyptus restaurant in Jerusalem offers a variety of dishes that are both traditional and modern, making it a great choice for those looking for a unique dining experience.
Specialties and Signature Dishes
Eucalyptus restaurant in Jerusalem is known for its modern interpretation of biblical cuisine. The restaurant offers a wide range of specialties and signature dishes that are unique and flavorful. Here are some of the must-try dishes at Eucalyptus:
Stuffed Vegetables
One of the most popular dishes at Eucalyptus is the stuffed vegetables. The dish is made with fresh vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, which are stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices. The dish is then baked until the vegetables are tender and the rice is fluffy. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and filling.
Lamb Kebabs
Another signature dish at Eucalyptus is the lamb kebabs. The lamb is marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection. The dish is served with a side of tahini sauce and pita bread. The lamb is tender and juicy, and the spices add a depth of flavor to the dish.
Jerusalem Mixed Grill
For those who want to try a variety of meats, the Jerusalem mixed grill is a must-try dish. The dish includes a mix of lamb, chicken, and beef, which are grilled to perfection. The dish is served with a side of hummus, tahini sauce, and pita bread. The meats are tender and flavorful, and the hummus and tahini sauce complement the dish perfectly.
Desserts
Eucalyptus also offers a variety of delicious desserts. One of the most popular desserts is the halva ice cream. The ice cream is made with sesame halva, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. Another popular dessert is the date cake, which is made with fresh dates and spices. The cake is moist and flavorful, and it’s the perfect way to end a meal at Eucalyptus.
Overall, Eucalyptus restaurant in Jerusalem offers a unique and flavorful dining experience. The restaurant’s specialties and signature dishes are delicious and well worth trying.
Customer Reviews
The Eucalyptus has received numerous positive reviews from customers, with many praising the restaurant’s fusion of healthy Israeli cuisine and unique flavors. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor based on over 2,100 reviews.
Customers have praised the quality of the food, with many describing the dishes as flavorful and well-prepared. The restaurant’s use of fresh, local ingredients has also been noted as a highlight by many reviewers.
In addition to the food, customers have also praised the restaurant’s atmosphere and service. The outdoor seating area provides picturesque views of the Old City walls, while the indoor area is described as cozy and inviting. The staff have been commended for their friendly and attentive service, with many reviewers noting that they went above and beyond to make their dining experience enjoyable.
Some reviewers have noted that the prices at The Eucalyptus are on the higher side, but many have stated that the quality of the food and service justifies the cost. Overall, customers have highly recommended The Eucalyptus for those looking for a unique and flavorful dining experience in Jerusalem.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, The Eucalyptus has received numerous awards and accolades for its innovative and authentic cuisine. In 2010, Chef Moshe Basson was awarded the title of “Ambassador of Israeli Cuisine” by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism.
In 2012, the restaurant was included in the prestigious list of “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” by Restaurant Magazine. The following year, it was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor, based on consistently high ratings from travelers.
In addition to these notable awards, The Eucalyptus has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and the use of locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has been a member of the Slow Food movement since 2008, and Chef Basson has been a vocal advocate for preserving traditional culinary techniques and ingredients.
The Eucalyptus has also been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, National Geographic, and Travel + Leisure, among others. Its unique blend of biblical and modern cuisine has garnered attention from food critics and enthusiasts around the world.
Contact Information
The Eucalyptus restaurant is located in the Artist Quarter of Jerusalem, a stone’s throw away from the magnificent walls of old Jerusalem. The address of the restaurant is Felt St 14, Jerusalem, Israel. Visitors can easily reach the restaurant by taking a taxi or walking from the nearby attractions.
For those who want to make a reservation, the restaurant can be contacted through phone or email. The phone number of the restaurant is +972 2-624-4331, and the email address is info@the-eucalyptus.com. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
The restaurant also has a website that provides information about the menu, the chef, and the history of the restaurant. Visitors can also make a reservation through the website. The website is https://www.the-eucalyptus.com/.
The restaurant accepts different modes of payment, including credit cards and cash. The restaurant also offers catering services for events and parties, and interested parties can contact the restaurant for more information.
Overall, The Eucalyptus restaurant provides easy access and convenient contact information for visitors who want to experience the modern interpretation of biblical cuisine in Jerusalem.
Future Plans
Eucalyptus has been a staple in the Jerusalem restaurant scene for over two decades, and Chef Moshe Basson has no plans of slowing down. In fact, he has several exciting plans for the future of the restaurant.
Firstly, Chef Basson plans to expand the restaurant’s offerings by introducing a new tasting menu. This menu will feature a variety of dishes that showcase the restaurant’s unique blend of biblical and modern Israeli cuisine. The tasting menu will be available for both lunch and dinner, and will provide diners with a comprehensive culinary experience.
In addition to the new tasting menu, Chef Basson plans to expand the restaurant’s wine list. He has been working with local wineries to curate a selection of wines that pair perfectly with the restaurant’s dishes. The expanded wine list will feature a variety of Israeli wines, as well as international selections.
Another exciting development for Eucalyptus is the addition of a cooking school. Chef Basson plans to offer classes that teach students how to prepare traditional biblical dishes, as well as modern Israeli cuisine. The cooking school will be located in a separate space adjacent to the restaurant, and will provide a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about Israeli culture and cuisine.
Finally, Chef Basson plans to continue to support local farmers and producers by incorporating more locally-sourced ingredients into the restaurant’s dishes. Eucalyptus has always been committed to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and Chef Basson plans to take this commitment even further in the future.
Overall, Eucalyptus is poised for an exciting future, with plans to expand its offerings, support local producers, and educate visitors about Israeli cuisine.
