Jerusalem Cafe

Jerusalem Cafe is a Mediterranean restaurant in Mobile that offers a great abundance of dining options for vegetarians. The food is fresh, healthy and delicious.

Mediterranean food consists of many dishes that are safe for vegetarians, and the fare at Jerusalem Cafe is no exception. Starters include hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, falafel, spanakopita, tabouli, fattoush, Greek salad and Jerusalem bean salad. Entrees include a falafel sandwich, a grilled veggie sandwich, eggplant parmesan sandwich, vegetarian lasagna, and a variety of combo platters.

I started out with the hummus/baba ghanoush appetizer. The chickpea and eggplant dips are dusted with pepper and parsley, and then drizzled with olive oil and harissa. It is served with warm pita triangles, and the combination of flavors is fantastic. The hint of heat added by the harissa lends a spicy note to the citrusy hummus, and the black pepper provides a nice contrast to the roasted flavors in the baba.

The stuffed grape leaves are stuffed with rice and tomato. The texture is soft and the flavor is bright.

The falafel and hummus pita is also very good. Soft falafel disks are stuffed into a pita that is slathered in hummus. The pita comes with grilled onions and zucchini as well as fresh tomatoes and lettuce in a tahini dressing. It is served with a side of saffron rice.

Jerusalem Cafe makes pastries, including the ubiquitous baklava in a variety of flavors. Some of the combo platters come with baklava included, so plan your meal accordingly.

The staff at Jerusalem Cafe works briskly and capably. There is indoor and outdoor seating. The restaurant is BYOB. Their website lists specials, including 25% discounts Monday nights, 20% lunch discounts to club members, and Sunday buffets.

Jerusalem Cafe