Beit Elfarasha – Authentic Akko Cooking

The name Beit Elfarasha, which translates to butterfly house in Arabic, is related to our vision. The term “butterfly effect” is derived from chaos theory and describes how the delicate flapping of a butterfly’s wings sets in motion an endless chain of transformations that will change the world. Thus, with a slight wave of a wing, a small act, may give rise to big changes. At Beit Elfarasha we believe that a humane, intimate meeting and honest dialogue with one another can lead to extensive intercultural change and encourage closeness, friendship, and respect between the residents of Old Akko and the guests who come to it.

Cathy Raff, the entrepreneur and owner, fell in love with Akko many years ago. Beit Elfarasha is the fulfillment of her dream of opening a center where local women can share their love of local cuisine with guests from Israel and around the world. Her aspiration is to allow visitors to Akko to feel the place, to experience daily life through personal meetings with local residents, to get to know the unique multiculturalism that makes Akko a diverse, warm and special city. The meetings at Beit Elfarasha and in the alleys of Akko will allow, as Cathy hopes, an experience with added value, a dialogue that will change perceptions and start a small change that will lead to a big change through those new friendships.

Beit Elfarasha is located in a picturesque alley in the heart of the old city of Akko, near the Mediterranean Sea and a minute’s walk from the Old Sea Wall. It is housed in a beautiful Ottoman building that was recently renovated. The entrance floor includes a modern kitchen where the workshops are held and a reception room for cultural events. The residents of Akko, warm hosts and proud of their diverse culture, will share in personal experiences the special multiculturalism that makes Akko a colorful and warm destination. The special Akko-style cuisine has existed for over 4,000 years and is based on the produce of the sea and the hills that surround the area. The origin of many of the typical dishes of the Akko cuisine comes from the Lebanese and Syrian culture. At the root of the local culture is family values ​​and food are the basis of who they are.

A visit to Beit Elfarasha will leave you with an unforgettable experience. Just come and leave the rest to us!