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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.
Set within the American Colony Hotel, this in-the-know place has the feel of an intimate wine cellar, with small tables, quiet corners, and a mix of languages that makes you feel far away from all the political problems of the day. It's open only during the winter months, but from June to October you can enjoy the same well-made cocktails at the outdoor Summer Bar.
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.
Across from the New Gate of the Old City, this rooftop eatery offers an unrivaled vista of Old Jerusalem and the hills beyond. Take it all in while nibbling on some of the 45 local and imported cheeses and sipping one of the 85 wines. There's also a rather pricey menu, but the best reasons to come here are the drinks and the view.
A great watering hole with a gritty edge, Sira features a variety of music spun by DJs. Open until the wee hours, it's one of the most fun places in the city to dance. Here you'll find a hodgepodge of students and young professionals who gather on weekend afternoons.
This austere open space in the center of town once served as a cistern and a storage area, but today the Distillery is the center of Jerusalem's art and alternative music scene. During the day it's an artists' workspace, and at night it's a performance space where you can get Palestinian beer on tap and dance alongside throngs of art students. Try to make it when local DJ mini-celebrities Tali Ben Itzhak or Markey Funk are on the lineup.
A not-for-profit music center, Yellow Submarine offers performances by emerging artists alongside major Israeli and international rock and pop artists, as well as a smattering of free events throughout the calendar year and lunchtime shows as well. A decent bar also serves salads and other light fare.
Owned, operated, and across the street from the well-regarded Machneyuda restaurant, this vibrant bar serves smaller versions of the classics served there. It's good for a drink before dinner or before hitting the town. It is definitely worth trying your luck here if getting a reservation at Machneyuda doesn't work out.
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