The snow that has returned to cover Mount Hermon is currently drawing thousands of Israelis to the north. Families, couples, and travelers make their way to the northern site - and discover that there are quite a few stops along the way worth knowing. One of them is in the heart of Majdal Shams, successfully bringing a touch of Europe to the north with excellent coffee and croissants.
Dam, a family café that opened in 2015, started as a small initiative by a local couple and over the years became a regular meeting point and a well-known destination for travelers in the area. The inspiration for the café’s name came from Dam Square in Amsterdam, but the character created there is deeply rooted in the daily life of Majdal Shams.
Since its opening, Dam has operated almost without interruption. The owners devoted all their time to it, making sure not to close even a single day - except for their wedding day. Even during the COVID-19 period, they continued to operate in a take-away format only, an experience that, according to them, strengthened them and prepared them for more complex challenges.
The war in the north interrupted the routine. A missile hit the village soccer field, near the café, causing damage and a temporary closure. After confirming that all family members and employees were unharmed, the owners made a clear decision: To restore, renovate, and reopen - both for themselves and for the local community.
The return to activity was accompanied by a culinary renewal. With the desire to attract visitors and create renewed interest, Soraya Abu Jabal went to study croissant baking. What began as an experiment quickly became the talk of the village, and the croissants baked on-site became one of Dam’s hallmarks.
This winter, with the snow and cold, many travelers on their way to Mount Hermon stop at the café seeking a warm corner. At Dam, they find a family atmosphere, good food, and a local rhythm.
For those making the journey to Mount Hermon, this is a must-stop - a moment before the traffic jams on the ascent.