Iconic Monka Bulgarian Restaurant Reopens in Jaffa with Famous Kebab Window

Monka, the first Bulgarian restaurant in Jaffa and a historic Israeli culinary institution, has reopened after closing in June 2026. The restaurant, which operated since Israel's founding, closed due to years of neglect, as explained by current owner Michael Halfon, grandson of the founders. Promising a revamped version, Halfon fulfilled his commitment just two months later with a complete renovation and updated branding.

The new Monka features a minimalist design while preserving the original 1940s charcoal grill, now refurbished. A street food window was added, serving the restaurant's signature Bulgarian kebab wrapped in traditional pita with hummus, fries, and salad for 40 shekels. The kebab is praised for its tender, juicy meat and smoky aroma. Another popular dish is the kebab meatball pita, similarly priced and seasoned more aggressively.

In addition to kebabs, the menu offers grilled chicken shashlik, chicken hearts, liver pitas, and various stuffed vegetables and stews priced between 30 and 65 shekels. Salads and soups, including goulash and cold yogurt soup, complement the offerings. The restaurant plays Bulgarian music and displays Bulgarian cultural decorations, evoking nostalgia among older patrons.

Halfon emphasized that Monka represents family memories and simpler times, recalling his grandfather and father dining there. The renovation was led by the Matbachon Studio team, who maintained the restaurant's traditional essence while modernizing its look. Monka is open Sundays and Tuesdays through Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. at 15 Yehuda Hayamit Street in Jaffa. The restaurant is not kosher.