Falafel Legend Afif Sweit, Owner of Haifa's 'Old Man Falafel,' Dies at 70s

The Israeli street food scene is mourning the loss of Afif Sweit, the proprietor of the beloved "Old Man Falafel" eatery in Haifa's Wadi Nisnas neighborhood. For over 40 years, Sweit was the face behind the counter of the establishment, which he transformed from a humble stand into a nationally recognized culinary institution.

Sweit was known for his dedication to simplicity and quality, maintaining the original tradition of offering every customer a complimentary hot falafel ball upon entering. The falafel stand's history dates back to the 1950s when George and Nagla Afara, an elderly couple, opened a small stall. Initially known as "Nagla's Falafel" to Arab residents and "Old Man Falafel" to Jewish patrons, the name "Old Man Falafel" eventually stuck.

Sweit, a loyal customer, purchased the business in 1984 from the aging founders and officially adopted the popular nickname. He arrived at the stand daily before dawn to prepare the falafel mixture using the original recipe. He meticulously fried the falafel in a deep pot and served it simply, greeting everyone from the mayor to students with a smile and generosity.

Sweit's funeral is scheduled for today at the Catholic Church in Haifa, followed by burial at the Kfar Samir cemetery. He leaves behind a significant culinary legacy.