Jerusalem Cafe to Close on Saturdays Amid Ultra-Orthodox Protests

Yoel Ben-David, owner of the Jerusalem cafe "Ba-Simta," has announced that the establishment will cease operations on Saturdays. The cafe, which opened in June on Agrippas Street, quickly became a point of contention between the ultra-Orthodox community and secular activists due to its Saturday operations.

"Ba-Simta" advertised its non-observance of Shabbat, including outdoor seating, and was promoted by left-wing activists on social media. This drew ultra-Orthodox residents from the Geula and Mea Shearim neighborhoods, who would gather outside on Saturdays shouting "Shabbat." In response, left-wing activists began arriving to "defend" the cafe, leading to frequent clashes with law enforcement, media attention, and political involvement.

The ongoing disturbances created a tense atmosphere at the cafe every weekend. The situation escalated as large crowds, including families and groups, began flocking to the cafe on Saturdays, causing long queues and a chaotic environment inside, contrary to the establishment's intended bohemian, student-friendly ambiance.

While other Jerusalem cafes operating on Saturdays have historically faced similar ultra-Orthodox protests, these typically subsided. "Ba-Simta" became a focal point due to its perceived role as a symbol in the conflict between secular activists and religious observers, exacerbated by the pre-election political climate.

Ben-David hopes that once the political tensions ease, "Ba-Simta" may attempt to reopen on Saturdays without the associated controversy.