Aricha Sabich

Jerusalem is basically a combination of three 300,000 person cities: the Arab city, the Orthodox Jewish city, and the new Jewish city. Most of Jerusalem's main tourist sites are in the Arab city (the Old City and its Holy Sites for instance). However, there are a few must see items in the new Jewish city. Yad V'Shem and the Israel Museum are probably the top two items. But to really get a glimpse of modern day life in Jerusalem's Jewish side, you must take a trip to Mechane Yehuda market - colloquially known as the Shuk. A cornucopia of food experiences, Mechane Yehuda is the place Israelis come to eat by day. At night the Shuk turns into a colorful array of murals and cafes serving beer and other drinks to lively patrons. While both experiences are worth having, this article focuses on where you should go during the day in the Shuk based on my time living in Jerusalem. At night, follow the crowds - they know the best hangout spots.