Derech HaGefen
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A delicious rain forest in the desert!
Brunch in the Rain Forest
In the valley of Bet Zayit, near Moza, just before David’s Harp welcomes you to Jerusalem, you can find nestled in the gardens of the valley a treasure called, Derech Hagefen. To get here, you need a car (or an uber) and that means you will see this place frequented by locals and they have the beat. You will have to look hard for a tourist.
Derech Hagefen feels a bit like eating in a rain forest or a Thai garden, though it is not hot or sticky. Perhaps that is from the mists that spritzes frequently but are elevated so that they do not douse those sitting under them. This thoughtful touch of mist placement is emblematic of this restaurant.
The earthy, farm to table environment makes you feel healthier just walking in. The wait staff is attentive and not shy to share their favorites though each one looked like their clothes were designed from hemp.
The breakfast and brunch menu was not overwhelming. A small sampling of some of the go-to dishes that are sure to please.
We started with the grape leaves, served warm on a bed of labeneh and pico de gallo. It was delicious. We also enjoyed the sautéed artichoke with shaved parmesan on a bed of arugula. For brunch I had the Benedict, and it was perfect. Made on a soft and thick-cut Challah toast with pesto and hollandaise, this was created to perfection. The salad was a beautiful and fragrant blend of bulgar wheat and dried cranberries mixed with olive oil and spices that could be eaten by the liter. The presentation of each dish was delectable! My wife had the Tuna sandwich, made with pickled lemons. If you love that sour, vinegar kick in your sandwich, this will hit the spot. It was perfect for the hungry but not starving. The orange juice that came with the meal tasted like candy; squeezed minutes before it was in a glass on our table.
Lemon Pie
We closed off our meal with a “lemon pie” which you and I would call lemon meringue and truffles. Both were excellent but, truth is we were so full it was hard to finish. Surprisingly, the bill was modest. We used the extra money we saved to buy some flowers and earthy crafts and wares that are for sale in the shop in the center of the restaurant. Kind of like a Jewish Cracker Barrel!
Get on the Derech…..to Derech Hagefen as soon as you can. It will not disappoint.
