Located in the heart of Kazimierz, this exceptional fast-food kosher restaurant seamlessly blends into the vibrant atmosphere of the neighborhood. With the enchanting backdrop of Israeli music and the tantalizing aroma of spices wafting through the air, the authenticity of the experience is truly captivating.
While primarily geared towards takeout, the establishment offers a cozy dining area featuring two tables and a counter with comfortable chairs. Nestled adjacent to the Isaac Synagogue, this restaurant operates under the esteemed kosher supervision of Rabbi Eliezer Gurary, ensuring that all culinary offerings bear the coveted kosher certification.
Their diverse menu boasts mouthwatering Israeli falafel and pizza, but it doesn’t stop there. Delve into an array of culinary delights such as Shakshuka, the daily soup special, Sabih, and a tempting selection of sandwiches featuring eggs, veggies, or pita with falafel. What sets this restaurant apart is their commitment to crafting fresh and delectable dishes onsite every single day.
After ordering pizza and falafel, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of what arrived. The pizza stood out immediately, featuring a crisp, well-crafted crust that spoke to its freshness and careful preparation. While it may not be the main reason to seek out this spot—unless a craving for kosher pizza in Krakow strikes—it certainly delivers and exceeds expectations.
That said, the true star of the menu is the falafel. These bite-sized gems are exceptional, striking a perfect balance between light, fluffy interiors bursting with flavor and a crisp, golden exterior. The generous selection of fresh salads pairs beautifully with the falafel, and the bright lemon sauce drizzled over everything ties the flavors together, elevating the entire dish.
The pita bread deserves special mention. Freshly made, soft, and airy, it’s exactly what great falafel demands. Stuffed with plentiful, perfectly crunchy falafel and crisp vegetables, each bite reflects the care and culinary skill that define this establishment.
My enthusiasm for Szalom Falafel reached new heights after tasting their flawlessly prepared falafel and shakshuka. The kitchen’s depth of culinary expertise is evident in every bite. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend Szalom Falafel to anyone seeking a quick, health-conscious meal that never compromises on flavor or authenticity.
Having sampled falafel and hummus in many corners of the world, I can confidently say there is nothing quite like what is served here. It’s a true culinary revelation—one that sets a new benchmark for these beloved Middle Eastern staples.
And then there’s dessert. The gelato is exceptional, with the chocolate flavor emerging as the undeniable star. Rich, dark, and deeply indulgent, it delivers the intensity only a generous use of high-quality cocoa can provide. For chocolate lovers, this gelato easily earns a place among all-time favorites.
For group dining, Szalom Falafel can comfortably accommodate up to 30 guests. If you’re hoping to reserve the larger dining room for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Prices fall within a moderate range and offer an excellent value for the quality provided—especially noteworthy given that this is the only kosher restaurant in town. For travelers seeking an authentic and strictly kosher dining experience, Szalom Falafel is an absolute must.
During the summer months, the restaurant extends its hours to satisfy late-night cravings, remaining open on Saturdays from 10:00 p.m. until midnight. On regular weekdays, service runs from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Contact Information
General Manager: Luba
Address: ul. Jakuba 21, Kraków (קראקוב)
Phone: +48 508 316 348
Website: www.shalomfalafel.pl
For more information, visit:
To plan a trip to Poland, contact the Polish National Tourist Office North America or log on to:
https://www.poland.travel/en http://www.mot.krakow.pl/ and www.krakow.pl
Story & Photography by Meyer Harroch – New York Jewish Travel Guide
