Yekutiel was a storyteller through his food. Born in Jerusalem, he was a living testament to the fusion of Israeli and Moroccan cultures. His Jewish heritage was deeply intertwined with the vibrant tapestry of his Moroccan roots, creating a unique blend that would later become the essence of Balady.
From a young age, Yekutiel discovered his love for cooking while helping his grandmother prepare traditional Moroccan dishes. The fragrant spices, the rhythmic chopping of ingredients, and the stories shared in that kitchen ignited a passion that would shape his life’s journey. As he grew older, he decided to follow his culinary dreams. Yekutiel’s journey took him across continents to the vibrant city of London. With a heart full of memories and a desire to share his roots, he opened “Balady,” a Middle Eastern haven celebrating the essence of Israeli and Moroccan cuisine.
The name “Balady” encapsulated the very essence of Yekutiel’s vision. In Arabic, “Balady” means “my country” or “local,” a homage to the heartfelt connection to both the Israeli homeland and the Moroccan heritage. The restaurant is a canvas of warm colours, intricate patterns, and a sense of belonging – a place where cultures converged over plates of falafel, Sabich, and other Middle Eastern delights.
Each dish at Balady is a symphony of flavours, a harmonious blend of the traditional and the innovative.
The falafel is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and made from a recipe handed down through generations.
The Sabich, a beloved Israeli sandwich, is a burst of colours and textures, a testament to the diverse influences that shaped Yekutiel’s culinary journey.
Just like Yekutiel’s grandmother’s kitchen, our dishes are made with love and care. From the freshly baked pita bread to the meticulously crafted falafels, every bite carries the essence of homemade goodness.
