Revisiting The Coffee Mill in Jerusalem, Israel: A Taste of Nostalgia from 2013 to 2024
Café in Jerusalem, Israel ✈
In 2013, I had breakfast at The Coffee Mill, a kosher café on Emek Refa'im Street in the German Colony neighborhood of Jerusalem, Israel. Eleven years later, I returned in 2024 to find that The Coffee Mill is still a great place to grab a quick bite. The only noticeable change is that the coffee bean cabinet, which was once a light-colored wood, has now been stained to a dark brown color.
The Coffee Mill has been a fixture on Emek Refa'im Street for years, serving the local community and visitors alike. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, the cafe has always been a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a quiet moment with a good cup of coffee. Over the years, The Coffee Mill has maintained its reputation for quality and consistency, which is no small feat in a neighborhood where cafés come and go.
Book a Tour: Top Jerusalem Tours
“Eleven years later, I returned in 2024 to find that The Coffee Mill is still a great place to grab a quick bite. The only noticeable change is that the coffee bean cabinet, which was once a light-colored wood, has now been stained to a dark brown color.”
The German Colony in Jerusalem, known for its charming streets and historical significance, has been home to several notable figures over the years. Among them was Amos Oz, one of Israel's most celebrated authors and intellectuals. Another prominent resident was Teddy Kollek, the longtime mayor of Jerusalem, who served from 1965 to 1993. Menachem Begin, Israel’s sixth Prime Minister, lived in the German Colony during a crucial period in his political career. Begin, who led the Irgun and later signed the Camp David Accords, added to the neighborhood's historical significance as a center of political activity.
The Coffee Mill was founded by cousins Debbie and Rosie, who started their chain of coffee shops in 1996 and entered Jerusalem's coffee market in 1999. Both originally from Chicago, USA, they shared a passion for coffee and fulfilled their dream of owning a small business. The cafe in the German Colony quickly became a key player in Jerusalem's coffee scene, known for serving and selling quality coffee from around the world, complemented by fresh, hand-baked pastries made from family recipes.
In 2016, after two decades, the café was passed on to the second generation, with Leah Breslow and Avi Katz taking over. Leah, who had previously managed Bridgeport Coffee Roasters in Chicago, brings her extensive experience in the coffee industry to The Coffee Mill. Under their management, the café has become part of the Specialty Coffee movement in Israel, offering 40 different types of specialty coffee. The Coffee Mill continues to provide a unique experience with its artisanal coffee wall, fresh pastries, and a wide variety of drinks.
The menu at The Coffee Mill offers a range of options, perfect for breakfast or a light meal. They serve a variety of coffee drinks, from espresso to cappuccino, made with freshly ground beans. The breakfast menu includes items like omelets, sandwiches, and pastries. For those looking for something more substantial, they offer salads and quiches as well. Their pastries are particularly noteworthy, with fresh croissants and cakes that pair perfectly with their coffee.
Coffee culture in Israel has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting a rich blend of global influences and unique local traditions. Traditionally, one of the most popular forms of coffee in Israel is Turkish coffee, locally known as botz, meaning "mud" due to the thick sediment that settles at the bottom of the cup. This strong, unfiltered coffee is similar to that enjoyed in Turkey and the Arab world, prepared by boiling finely ground coffee beans in water with sugar and sometimes a hint of cardamom, and served in small cups that pack a flavorful punch.
In recent decades, Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem have wholeheartedly embraced espresso-based drinks such as cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos, showcasing a strong European, particularly Italian, influence. These cities boast a vibrant café culture where establishments serve as social hubs for people to gather, converse, work, or simply relax over a well-crafted cup of coffee, much like the café scenes found across Europe.
Instant coffee also holds a significant place in Israeli daily life. It is especially popular for quick and convenient consumption at home or in the office, mirroring its use in countries like the United Kingdom and Australia. Additionally, cold coffee beverages, or kafé kar, are widely enjoyed throughout Israel, particularly during the hot summer months. These range from simple iced Americanos to more indulgent blended frozen drinks akin to frappés or frappuccinos.
When comparing Israel's coffee culture to other countries, several influences become apparent. From the Middle Eastern perspective, Israel shares a common appreciation for strong, unfiltered coffee like Turkish coffee; however, Israel distinguishes itself by offering a more diverse mix that includes a wide array of espresso-based drinks, unlike some neighboring countries where traditional coffee styles remain predominant.
European influences are evident in Israel's robust and dynamic café culture, though the Israeli approach tends to be more casual compared to the more ritualized coffee traditions found in places like Italy or France. The impact of American coffee culture is also noticeable through the emergence of specialty coffee shops focused on high-quality beans and innovative brewing methods, reflecting the third wave coffee movement prominent in the United States. These Israeli cafes often emphasize direct trade and artisanal roasting, contributing to a sophisticated and evolving coffee scene.
Unique aspects of Israeli coffee culture include considerations of kosher dietary laws, especially in more religious areas, which influence factors such as the types of milk used and the selection of accompanying pastries and food items. Furthermore, Israel has been quick to adopt and integrate global coffee trends, embracing modern brewing techniques like pour-overs and cold brews while still maintaining and honoring traditional favorites. This seamless integration showcases Israel's adaptability and enthusiasm for coffee innovation.
Coffee in Israel represents a harmonious blend of Middle Eastern tradition, European café sophistication, and contemporary global influences. The country's diverse and dynamic coffee scene offers something for every coffee enthusiast, all within a cultural context that respects tradition while eagerly embracing new trends and experiences.
The Coffee Mill remains a solid choice for anyone in the German Colony looking for a quick, tasty meal or a good cup of coffee. Despite the small change in the decor, the cafe has kept its charm and continues to deliver the same quality experience it did over a decade ago. If you're in the area, it's worth a visit.
Book a Tour: Top Jerusalem Tours
Comments