A Taste of England in Jerusalem: The Charming Kum Kum Tea House in Baka
English Tea House in Jerusalem, Israel ✈
During my visit to the Kum Kum Tea House, located in the Baka neighborhood of Jerusalem, I got to experience a taste of England in the heart of Israel. This kosher tea established itself in 2021 on Derech Beit Lechem - Beit Lechem Road - as a spot where locals and visitors can enjoy a traditional English tea experience.
The décor of Kum Kum Tea House is designed to transport you straight to the UK, with British flags, English teapots, and a variety of English paraphernalia adorning the space. The ambiance reflects a clear effort to recreate the charm of a traditional English tearoom, right down to the cozy seating arrangements and cute small outdoor garden.
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“Over time, English Tea Houses have spread globally, but the essence remains deeply connected to British history and social customs. Kum Kum Tea House in Jerusalem continues this tradition in a new setting, bringing these wonderful experiences to locals and visitors in Jerusalem.”
English tea houses have a long history rooted in British culture, dating back to the 17th century. The tradition of afternoon tea, as it's now known, began in the early 1840s, when Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, introduced the concept of a mid-afternoon snack to stave off hunger between lunch and dinner. This soon evolved into a social event where people would gather to enjoy tea, sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
By the 18th century, tea houses became fashionable spots for people to meet, particularly among the upper classes. Tea rooms and tea gardens grew in popularity, offering a more relaxed and social setting than the formal dining rooms of the time. The Tavern Act of 1757 also played a role in the rise of tea houses, as it limited the availability of alcohol, prompting many to turn to tea instead.
Tea houses became central to British social life, not only for the elite but eventually for all classes, providing a space where people could gather, converse, and enjoy a pot of tea. They remain a significant part of British culture, with many establishments continuing the tradition of serving afternoon tea—complete with sandwiches, scones, and pastries—in a quintessentially British atmosphere.
Over time, English Tea Houses have spread globally, but the essence remains deeply connected to British history and social customs. Kum Kum Tea House in Jerusalem continues this tradition in a new setting, bringing these wonderful experiences to locals and visitors in Jerusalem.
The menu at Kum Kum Tea House offers a variety of items typical of a classic afternoon tea. I was served a selection of perfect little sandwiches, with fillings like cucumber and cream cheese or smoked salmon, which are as close to the traditional English fare as you can get in Jerusalem. The scones were served warm, accompanied by clotted cream and jam, which added to the authentic experience. Additionally, there were mini pastries and cakes, all meticulously prepared and designed to complement the tea offerings.
Speaking of tea, Kum Kum takes it seriously. There’s an extensive selection of teas, served in charming teapots, ranging from traditional English Breakfast to Earl Grey. The quality of the tea, combined with the thoughtful presentation, made for a delightful experience.
In addition to its Afternoon Tea, Kum Kum also offers themed treats for special occasions like Purim, where you can find delightful gift boxes filled with scones, meringues, and even hamantaschen.
The menu at Kum Kum Tea House offers a variety of traditional English tea options and light meals. For Afternoon Tea, you can choose between small or large portions, which include finger sandwiches, including smoked salmon, cream cheese and dill, and egg salad. Scones served with butter, jam, and cream, and an assortment of petit fours are accompanied by a pot of tea.
Their Pastries section features croissants, including butter, almond, and chocolate-filled varieties, as well as scones and brioche with various fillings.
For something more substantial, the sandwiches include options like smoked salmon with cream cheese and dill, and tuna with lettuce and tomato. These are served on Kasten bread, whole wheat, white, or croissant.
You will also find lighter meal options like Caesar salad, Nicoise salad, and a soup of the day. They also offer quiches and avocado toast as well.
Dessert includes classic cakes such as lemon drizzle, carrot cake, apple crumble, and Victoria sponge. These items can also be ordered in advance for takeout.
The tea selection has something for everyone. You can choose from various spice blends, fruit blends or herb blends. If you prefer to stick with the traditional teas, they serve Earl Grey, Black Tea and English Breakfast among many others.
For cold drinks, they have several iced tea options with whimsical names like Iced London Fog, Emerald Frost, and Queen of Hearts Potion. Other cold drinks available are soda, mineral water and Gin & Tonic in a can.
You don’t usually think of coffee at a tea house, but coffee lovers can opt for standard hot drinks like Espresso, Cappuccino, and Americano.
Kum Kum Tea house is in a charming and diverse neighborhood called Baka. It’s located in the southern part of Jerusalem, known for its blend of old-world architecture, green spaces, and a lively community. Originally built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Baka has evolved into a popular area for both locals and expatriates, particularly from France, the United States, and other countries.
The neighborhood is characterized by its tree-lined streets. Many of the old homes feature red-tiled roofs and have been preserved and renovated, giving Baka its unique architectural appeal.
In recent years, Baka has become a hub for families and professionals who enjoy its laid-back atmosphere and proximity to Jerusalem’s city center. Derech Beit Lechem, one of the main streets in Baka, is lined with cafes, boutique shops, and restaurants, offering a variety of dining and shopping options. The street is also home to several synagogues, schools, and community centers, making it a neighborhood with a strong sense of community.
Baka's location also provides easy access to nearby areas like Talpiot, Katamon, and the German Colony, with its famous Emek Refaim Street. The Park HaMesila (Railway Park) is another highlight, a long, green park built on a former railway track that now offers a scenic route for walking and cycling.
Baka strikes a balance between a quiet, residential feel and urban conveniences, making it a sought-after neighborhood for those who want to experience the best of Jerusalem’s modern and historical charm. The Kum Kum Tea House fits into Baka perfectly by offering a unique, kosher take on an English tradition, making it a spot worth visiting for anyone in Jerusalem who appreciates both the charm of British culture and a good cup of tea.
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