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Although Jerusalem can't compete with Tel Aviv in terms of the number of nightlife attractions, what the city lacks in quantity it more than makes up for in quality. Pubs, bars, and nightclubs in Jerusalem tend to be more relaxed than those in Tel Aviv—they're friendlier, more informal, and often less expensive. As in Tel Aviv, the nightlife scene in Jerusalem starts very late: some places only begin to fill up after midnight, and most pubs are open until the early hours of the morning. Given the university presence in the city, there’s often a younger crowd at many places.
Helmed by the geniuses behind Machneyuda restaurant and housed in an old factory, this is a temple to the craft of cocktails on the outskirts of Jerusalem's First Station shopping and dining complex. The drinks—mixed with outstanding homemade syrups and juices—change frequently, but if it's on the menu try a celery daiquiri. Tapas-style dishes emphasize expertly prepared seafood and include a sea-bass bruschetta, seafood curry, and smoked octopus.
An unmarked door opens to a library with bookshelves that slide apart to reveal a bar inspired by the Roaring '20s. Eager young bartenders mix classic cocktails and drinks of their own creation, accented by crushed star anise, arak liquor, absinthe, or honey syrup.
