Hosh Al Syrian

“Our mission is to create an attraction around food and tourism in the heart of the Old City of Bethlehem which celebrates locality and seasonality and benefits the local community through ethical values and responsible practices. We require advance bookings because the menu is set and based on the produce available on the day from the local farmers and producers, as well as managing wastage through adequate ordering. We also prioritize foraged herbs and vegetables over farmed produce, although the farmers we work with are small-scale and local to the Bethlehem vicinity, further reducing the environmental impact of transport.”

Aubergines stuffed with labneh; freekeh salad with seasonal vegetables and herbs; and lamb pâté using Baladi meat.

While it’s clear that Fadi Kattan, owner and chef of Hosh Al Syrian, is very passionate about the integrity of his produce and celebrating heritage ingredients, it’s also clear that his restaurant is heavily focused on business ethics, community, and tourism. They pride themselves on having a female majority workforce as well as employing the youth to help transmit and keep alive important knowledge, experience, and values. Hosh Al Syrian also contributes to the rescuing of abandoned heritage buildings under the assistance of Bethlehem Municipality and the Italian government. It’s a win-win for all.

"A memory of Palestine which will last long after the trip has ended."

-Felicity Spector, The Gannet