Palestinian National Authority (PNA) still has an existing culture, and, therefore, the cuisine found in the PNA includes international influences as well as traditional delicacies. Meat is the main ingredient in most of the local food, so vegetarians may find it challenging to find variety in their meals. Lamb, hummus, casseroles, and pastries are extremely popular within the PNA. Restaurants come in a range of shapes and sizes throughout the region. However, the larger cities like Ramallah, Bethlehem, and East Jerusalem are the best places for gastronomical options. There is only one locally brewed beer in the PNA, Taybeh Beer, which can be found in the nightclubs and bars around the territories. Some clubs open until the early hours of the morning, while others close around midnight.
Bars and Pubbing in Palestinian National Authority
Cosmos (Beit Jala, Bethlehem) is where the hip youngsters go out in the PNA. For an Arabic pop music experience, holidaymakers should visit Layal Nightclub(Beit Jala, Bethlehem) on the weekends. Also found in Beit Jala is the Taboo Bar (Beit Jala, Bethlehem), which boasts excellent live music and relentlessly flowing drinks.
Ramallah’s nightlife is still developing. Orjuwan Lounge (Masyoun Heights, Ramallah) is among the newest and most trendy places in town. Another popular spot in Ramallah is Beit Aneeseh (al Hajjal Street, Ramallah), with its long bar and good music. For a late night drink, tourists should head to the Sparkles Bar (Movenpick Hotel, Almasyoun, Ramallah), which opens until early in the morning.
The East Jerusalem districts have some great nightlife venues to choose from. However, it’s the American Colony Hotel that gets most of the attention. The Courtyard Bar (American Colony Hotel, Nablus Street, East Jerusalem) is a fantastic place to socialize. In comparison, Val’s Brasserie Lounge (American Colony Hotel, Nablus Street, East Jerusalem) is a more laid-back establishment. Outside the hotels, East Jerusalem also contains some interesting night spots in the PNA. Gossip (Nablus Road, East Jerusalem) is one of the younger generation’s most adored evening hangouts.
Dining and Cuisine in Palestinian National Authority
Bethlehem is a great city with plenty of dining options. La Terrase (Karfakeh, Behtlehem) is an international restaurant with a menu of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine. Abu Shanab (Manger Street, North Bethlehem) is perfect for meat-eaters, especially for those who love lamb. The best barbeque in town is found at Qaabar (Beit Jala, Bethlehem).
East Jerusalem, otherwise known as the Palestinian-side of the city, is home to many wonderful restaurants too. The Arabesque Restaurant (American Colony Hotel, Nablus Road, East Jerusalem) is where the best Western meals in the city can be found. Pasha’s (13 Shimon Hazadiq, East Jerusalem) is where Lebanese cuisine and other Middle Eastern delights come to life. The Courtyard (American Colony Hotel, Nablus Road, East Jerusalem) offers delectable meals and a fantastic atmosphere.
Even though Gaza City is not the most tourist-friendly place, there are still several nice restaurants. Roots (Cairo Street West, Gaza City) is the city’s most expensive eatery. Al Salam (Rimal, Gaza City) is the best seafood restaurant in the Gaza Strip, while for those looking for baked goods and patisseries, Delice Café (Sheikh Izz ed-Din-el-Qassam Street, Rimal, Gaza City) simply can’t be beaten on taste and atmosphere.