+962 7 9635 8199
[email protected]
The old port of Jaffa is where modern-day Tel Aviv originated. The Jaffa district of Ajami, which is situated south of the Old City and the Port of Jaffa, gained notoriety across the world in 2009 because to the name of a movie that was filmed there and was nominated for an Oscar. One of the first Israeli movies made primarily in Arabic was this exploration of life in the area, which continues to be home to a sizable Arab community.
Due to its location further south than the majority of the “tourist sights” in the Old City, Port, and Flea Market regions, this section of Jaffa is frequently overlooked by visitors. Yet, with some local knowledge, Ajami offers a distinctive cultural experience. Samy D., an ex-Ajami resident, has allowed us to share some of the sights, sounds, and characters that contribute to the unique character of this area of Jaffa below. This article is more than simply a tourist guide; it offers a window into the daily routine and viewpoint of a local, highlighting a few aspects of local life that distinguish and distinguish this location:
Falafel on Saturday morning
On Saturday mornings, two families make their own falafel right across the street from where we used to live (one on Emmunim Street, the other on Even-Sinna Street; just follow the delicious-smelling aroma). Crisp pita, tomato slices, and flavorful falafel balls—more of a patty than a ball—are all included. In a pita, the happy life is lived.
A nice and understanding woman who works as the local greengrocer. She has several herbs and roots that I had no idea even existed, in addition to pears, tomatoes, and any other veggies I was familiar with. There is no one like Um-Ali when it comes to picking the best watermelon or for the best olives, despite what some might say about her pricing and the car you park on the curve in front. Some might also argue that the brown part of the banana is not rotten but rather “Baladi,” which is the local term for organic (she sells them by the cashier).
Um- Ali
This decadent, authentic bread pudding goes by the name of “Umm Ali” and is a breeze to make! Crispy puff pastry is smothered with a sweet cream and milk mixture and topped with an array of nuts, raisins and coconut! Delicious and the prefect dessert for a gathering!
Stuffed Grape leaves
Jaffa for the knowledgeable. While she is not the only one, those of Noel (from Kedem Street). You can give her any size and color empty pot, and two days later it will be filled with flawlessly curled grape leaves filled with rice and rolled like a Buddhist monk on Ritalin.