Falafel HaZkenim
פלאפל הזקנים
Historic falafel stand in Wadi Nisnas, open since 1950, offering a free tahini-dipped falafel while you wait in line.
Located at 18 Wadi Street in Wadi Nisnas, the Arab old quarter of Haifa's Lower City. It was founded in 1950 by an Arab Christian couple. The name HaZkenim (the Elders) came from the elderly Jewish regulars who called it that, and in 1984 the business was passed on to longtime customers. The signature is freshly fried falafel in pita, and while you queue, the staff hand out a falafel dipped in tahini for you to sample. Across the street is its longtime rival, Michel's Falafel, which makes for an easy comparison. A fully stuffed pita costs under 20 shekels and is usually eaten standing up or taken away. It is about a 10-minute walk from the German Colony or below the Baha'i Gardens.
Opening hours
Monday–Saturday about 8:30–18:30; closed Sundays (confirm on site)
Nearby sights
- Wadi Nisnas
- German Colony
- Bahá'í Gardens & Shrine of the Báb
- Madatech – Israel National Museum of Science
- Louis Promenade
- Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art
- Stella Maris Monastery & Cable Car
- Clandestine Immigration and Naval Museum