The breakfast of champions: treat yourself to some utter luxury at the Waldorf Astoria in Jerusalem!

Waldorf Astoria Breakfast

We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, right? I’m not sure what your parents told you, but mine never let me leave the house without some cereal or toast and marmalade inside me. And the ritual continues with my own wee brood, who know that they have to squeeze something in before they make the mad dash for the school bus…

Breakfast in Israel is a whole different ball game of course. The sheer number of options today are mind-boggling, ranging from the simple but delicious Shakshuka, to the diet-unfriendly and irresistible Jachnun. And then there’s the ever-growing number of cafes throughout the country, who have mastered the art of a great Israeli breakfast, with salads and eggs and plenty of things that make you go mmmmm…

Waldorf Astoria BreakfastBut forget all those options. If you’re looking for the ultimate breakfast in Israel, it has to be at the Waldorf Astoria in Jerusalem.

It might not be for the budget conscious of you (the breakfast menu is now open to non-guests of the hotel, but costs 144 shekels per person), but if you’re looking to spoil yourself or a loved one, this is the place to start your day.

Just walking into the hotel lobby, past the suited and booted (and with a top hat!) doorman, you soon realize that you’re in for a bit of a treat.

Once you’re seated, enjoy the service of the excellent waiting staff as they take care of pretty much every whim. The fixed breakfast menu is fairly limited in terms of breakfast options (I chose an exquisite Eggs Benedict (photo above), Mrs iGoogled chose a superb omelette – you can also choose eggs on toast or go for the sweet option of waffles/pancakes), but you don’t have to order from the menu. The buffet is simply mind-boggling, and hey, it’s the breakfast buffet you really came for…

You’re going to drool like crazy if you like fish; head to the smoked fish table for a mouth-watering range of smoked salmon, tuna, mackerel and herring. The cheese buffet wasn’t too shabby either – you might need a second plate with the fresh Gouda, Camembert, Brie and goat’s cheese on offer, among others. And – oh my – there’s a whole range of other options to consider, including the very best of traditional Israeli breakfastness in the form of burekas and shakshuka. Of course, if you’re a bread fan, don’t forget to add a fresh roll, or slice of freshly baked bread, to that already full plate…

There’s also a variety of healthy options of course, with a great array of exotic, fresh fruits on offer. And if you’re that way inclined, you could always try some healthy cereal, yogurt, granola, and dried fruits.

Browse the various tables at your will. But be warned, you’re likely to leave the Waldorf holding your bloated stomach…and forget about eating lunch!

The BIG question: is breakfast at the Waldorf Astoria really worth the money? In one word, yes. Especially if you look at it as an experience, and something just that little bit special. I’m not sure where else you’re going to get top-hatted doormen welcoming you in Israel and, all in all, this is what life is all about sometimes, experiences. Sure you can find better value breakfasts, but that’s not what the Waldorf is about  (think: awesome service, fine china, top hats…).

The breakfast restaurant (the Palace Restaurant) is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Sunday through Friday. To make a reservation call 02-5423353 / 02-5423352.

Below are some more photos to help you get an idea of what your stomach can expect…

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Disclaimer: We were invited guests of the Waldorf Astoria.

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