Hidden Jerusalem Hills Bakery Serves Exceptional Focaccia and Tahini
A taxi driver's culinary discovery in the moshav of Ta'oz reveals Ishlachem, a hidden artisanal bakery offering exceptional kamut bread and a signature focaccia with tahini.
A late-night bicycle ride through the Jerusalem hills led to an unexpected culinary discovery in the moshav of Ta'oz. While navigating the winding paths opposite the village of Tarum, friends mentioned a hidden bakery tucked deep within the settlement: Ishlachem. Weeks later, driving a taxi along Route 44 toward Ramla, the recommendation resurfaced, prompting a daytime detour to investigate the remote artisanal spot.
Finding the Hidden Bakery
Reaching the bakery requires navigating the interior of Ta'oz, past speed bumps, tight turns, and sloping residential lanes before arriving at a spacious parking lot with a scenic balcony view. Inside, the rustic counter presents a compact yet exceptional selection of rare artisanal loaves, including ancient kamut grain bread, alongside freshly baked goods pulled straight from the oven by the resident baker.
The Signature Focaccia Discovery
Among the offerings, a vibrant focaccia topped with colorful vegetables, peppers, zucchinis, and a generous drizzle of tahini immediately catches the eye. Priced at just 25 shekels, the dish—known as meshwia antipasti focaccia with tahini—delivers a comforting softness in every bite, perfectly balanced by the roasted vegetables and creamy tahini finish. Ishlachem proves to be a hidden gem well worth the journey into the Jerusalem hills.
