Transported from another world and time, Chef Deli exudes an old-world charm. Nestled in Bnei Brak, an ultra-orthodox city, it stands apart from the typical tourist-filled high street and food tour hotspots. It’s located on a tranquil side street, facing the Ponevezh Yeshiva, and operates without a menu. It does a busy take out business, but there are also a few tables outside where guests are served by family members of the owners. Co-founded in 2012 by Shmuel Farkash and his wife Sara, their son Yossi now works with them. Despite the deeply Ashkenazi feel of the place, Shmuel’s menu also includes Moroccan chraimeh and other dishes from the Levant and North Africa.

Chulnt, Photo by: Noam Preisman

Ruthie Rousso explains: “I always return here for a culinary delight I never imagined I’d enjoy — a slice of sweet challah with gefilte fish, house mayonnaise, and a touch of hot horseradish. I have never been a fan of gefilte fish or kholodets (calves’ foot jelly), but Shmuel’s creations are infused with a great soul and grace. I return time and again for these unexpected pleasures and, of course, the excellent hamin.”