Cinnabon croissant, taboon pizza and 'corrupt' cookies: the coffee cart scene driving the Gaza Envelope crazy
The food scene in the Gaza Envelope has changed since October 7: new coffee carts have become meeting places, memorials, and community hubs, telling the story of the region through food, nature, and local entrepreneurship.
The current food scene in the Gaza Envelope is inextricably linked to the events of October 7, 2026. While coffee carts existed before, the war and the subsequent events became a catalyst for their widespread development. Today, these mobile cafes, scattered across settlements and sites in the region, have become much more than just food stops: many are named after the fallen, while others were born from a sincere desire by residents to support their community.
'Cafe Ba'Sivuv': From a Dream to Reality
The 'Cafe Ba'Sivuv' (Cafe on the Turn) cart at the 'Atar HaRishonim' site in Kibbutz Ruhama has its own special story. Hagai Horowitz from Kfar Aza dreamed of creating a lively meeting place for locals, tourists, and soldiers. His first cart was opened at the 'Black Arrow' memorial, but it was destroyed during the events of October 7. After evacuating to Kibbutz Ruhama, Hagai opened a new location and later restored the first one. Now, two establishments operate under the same name.
At Atar HaRishonim, visitors find shaded seating areas, accessibility for those with limited mobility, and decor reflecting the region's agricultural past. The menu includes pastries, sandwiches, pizza, ice cream, and excellent coffee.
'Etzel Dandan': A Taste of Home in Gevim
The 'Etzel Dandan' coffee cart opened in the spring of 2024 next to the restored security house of Kibbutz Gevim. Inbal and Idan (Dandan) Havroni, having returned from reserve duty, decided to contribute to the kibbutz's revival. Dandan, a professional chef, and Inbal, a pastry chef, created a spot that has become a hub for locals and soldiers alike. Their 'corrupt' cookies and vegetable patties, based on a family recipe, have become local favorites.
Memory and Flavor: 'Itamar Cafe'
'Itamar Cafe Im Sipur' (Itamar Cafe with a Story) is also located at the 'Black Arrow' site. Rozi Zilcha Levin opened it in memory of her brother-in-law, Itamar Levin, a counter-terrorism unit fighter who fell in battle in Jabalia on November 11, 2024. The cart serves dishes Itamar loved: Caesar salad, white chocolate cheesecake, and artichoke sandwiches.
'Mor Cafe' and 'Amit Cafe': Community Spirit
In Kibbutz Alumim, Alon and Mor, formerly of the high-tech and catering worlds, opened 'Mor Cafe'. They admit to waking up at 3:00 AM to prepare everything, viewing their work as a mission to boost morale. Meanwhile, in Kibbutz Re'im, 'Amit Cafe' operates in memory of Amit Gabai, who was murdered on October 7, 2023, at the age of 18. It is a place where Amit's favorite music plays, serving as a gathering point for friends and neighbors.
'HaCafe Shel HaTeva': Nature and Tunisian Traditions
In Moshav Sde Avraham, Adir Dimari and his wife opened 'HaCafe Shel HaTeva' (The Nature Cafe). Adir, who served in the Navy and had experience in the ice cream business, wanted to create a pastoral spot for relaxation. Today, they serve Cinnabon croissants, Tunisian sandwiches, and taboon pizza, offering visitors a unique outdoor experience.
