Piccolino

Piccolino – An Italian Culinary Experience in the Heart of Old Jerusalem
Among the winding alleys of the historic Nahalat Shiva neighborhood in Jerusalem, in an ancient and impressive stone building, lies a culinary gem – the Piccolino restaurant. This is not just another strictly kosher Italian restaurant, but a culinary institution that combines a luxurious family tradition with refreshing culinary innovation.
The restaurant, owned by an old and respected Jerusalem family, is carefully managed by three generations of the family, who bring with them a tradition of excellence in the field of service and hospitality. The high European standards are evident in every detail – from the meticulous design of the space, through the professional and courteous service, to the quality of the dishes that come out of the kitchen.
The atmosphere in the restaurant is an experience in itself. In the restaurant’s courtyard, known as the “Kikar Hamusica”, live music plays throughout the day and evening, adding a romantic and authentic touch to the diners’ experience. Sitting in the courtyard, between the ancient stone walls, gives the feeling of a small restaurant in Tuscany, right in the heart of Jerusalem. Piccolino’s kitchen presents a rich and precise Italian menu, based on only high-quality and fresh ingredients. The chefs there are careful to preserve Italian tradition while adding a sophisticated local twist. Among the restaurant’s flagship dishes can be found the famous onion soup, served in a freshly baked loaf of bread – a culinary experience you will not soon forget. The beetroot gnocchi stuffed with mozzarella cheese presents a perfect balance between the sweetness of the beets and the richness of the cheese, and the seared tuna salad demonstrates the kitchen’s ability to combine flavors and textures in an impressive way. Arancini, stuffed fried risotto balls, are further testament to the kitchen’s culinary prowess.
On Fridays, the restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind experience – a rich Italian brunch featuring an impressive selection of quality cheeses, fresh salads, pastries and breads baked on site, a variety of egg dishes, fresh pastas, pizzas from the tabon and fragrant focaccia. The desserts, both luxurious and homemade, are a perfect end to the meal.
What sets Piccolino apart beyond its fine cuisine is its deep commitment to the community. The restaurant is a warm home for new immigrants, people with disabilities and at-risk youth, who become an integral part of the staff. Moreover, the restaurant regularly donates surplus food from Fridays and events to a yeshiva and an institution for at-risk girls.
During the “Iron Sword War”, starting on 7.10.23, the restaurant demonstrated its deep commitment to Israeli society. It became a focal point of support for IDF soldiers, established an equipment depot for soldiers and evacuees that operated for three months, and continued the long-standing tradition of hosting IDF soldiers on Fridays free of charge.
For private hosts, the restaurant offers a variety of intimate guest rooms suitable for events of various sizes. Each room is carefully designed and allows for a personalized hospitality experience.
Picolino is much more than a restaurant – it is a Jerusalem institution that combines culinary excellence, a magical atmosphere and a deep social commitment. It is a place that manages to preserve the magic of traditional Italian cuisine, while creating a unique experience tailored to the beating heart of Jerusalem in Nahalat Shiva.