If you're not a mall food court devotee, dining options can be a bit light in Jerusalem's far-flung Malcha neighborhood - an unenviable situation that Cafe Avichayil seeks to address.

 

Packing loads of style (a circular space, with a similarly curving patio) and a clean, modern decor (everything white except the matching honey-colored hardwood of the floors and tables), Avichayil plays it pretty safe with the menu: kosher dairy cafe and Italian fare, distinguished by a chef's touch. Offerings include breakfasts, salads, the pasta-pizza-focaccia nexus, a modest tapas menu, fresh fish and scrumptious little desserts. Whatever you get, the patio's a lovely place to eat it.