Orlah Fruits in the Marketplace - Update for Tevet 5778

This post is a follow up to the Kashrut for New Olim post. If you haven't seen it yet, please check it out -- there's important information there! 

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES in Israel

Unlike in other parts of the world, in Israel, fruits and vegetables are NOT automatically "kosher" - here we need to make sure that they are not "orlah" fruits (harvested during a tree's first 3 yrs, with other rules applying to year 4) and that trumot and ma'asrot have been taken (from both fruits and vegetables). 

If you shop at a market that doesn't have an ishur kashrut (kosher certification) on their produce, you'll need to investigate these issues further, if you are interested in adhering to the halachot of the Land of Israel OR if you regularly host people who assume the food in your home is kosher! I must say that it's important to familarize yourself with these special halachot, as they are part of keeping kosher in Israel! (If you say you keep Kosher in Israel, everyone assumes that you have taken care of these issues; and if you don't, then you may be unwittingly putting someone in a situation they don't want to be in!) 

It's definitely possible to take trumot and maasrot on your own (I do it often), so vegetables are easiest to buy without a teudah, as that is all you need to do (and very often, it would be without a bracha). Some of the fruits on the market may be ok to purchase even from a non-certified establishment and just take trumot and maasrot, because of the extremely low percentage of orlah fruits being sold, but those lists change frequently, so you'll constantly need to stay up-to-date.

Other fruits can be a problem, because of a high possibility that they are orlah (from the first 3 yrs after the tree was planted). I have recently begun to post a monthly update on my website, with a list of the fruits where the percentage of orlah fruits on the open market is greater than 0.5%, so should only be bought from a reputable source that does not sell orlah fruits (i.e. a place with a teudah) that should really help everyone avoid the orlah problem:

ORLAH Update for Tevet 5778

Fruits to AVOID buying without a teudah:

• Avocado - Ettinger variety, Haas variety, and one similar to Ettinger called "Ruti" I think
• Blueberries
• Lemon
• Lemon-lime
• Papaya
• Prickly Pear (Sabra Fruit)
• Starfruit
• Passionfruit
• Clementines - Murcott variety, Hadas Variety, and Tami variety
• Valencia Oranges

Please be sure to speak with your personal Halachic Authority about purchasing fruit in Israel without a teudah. Not everyone holds by the 0.5% threshold. This information is just for informational purposes and is not a halachic psak! Even if you follow a psak that relies on the 0.5% threshold, you still must take trumot and maasrot on all produce grown in Israel (or be sure it has been taken), in order to fulfill your halachic obligations.

Also, this list does not apply to fruit grown by an individual. If your friend has a fruit tree, you'll need to find out how old it is! 

I hope you find this helpful! Please follow my Facebook page and don't miss out on updates and other posts!

Restaurant and other Food Deals (Kosher, of course)!

(This post contains affiliate links, and I may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking a link. Thanks in advance for your support!)  

Kosherfrugal.com and Janglo have teamed up to bring you some great Groupon deals and Eluna deals (and other deals) you don't want to miss!

This post focuses exclusively on kosher restaurants and take-out food, so if you're going to splurge, you can now afford to splurge a little more, with discount vouchers and savings. I keep checking for new deals, as I know you've been waiting for some, and this week there are some changes, so check carefully! Be sure to check the Facebook group so you don't miss out!

Also, Janglo Beteavone has a great selection of restaurant coupons. Be sure to check http://shop.beteavone.com for deals you won't find anywhere else! eLuna has a great selection of discount restaurant vouchers too - be sure to check them out before you go out! But supplies are extremely limited, so hurry before they're gone. 
Pre-purchasing your vouchers and saving up to 50% is a GREAT way to save when you want to indulge! Don't miss out on the savings! Check below for savings in your area!

Tel Aviv and Nearby:

Pizza Hut for 19.90 (for a personal pie + a topping!)! Good at any pizza hut in the country except for the airport. Voucher valid thru Feb. 21, 2018

Mifgash HaSteak - meal for 2 for 129nis! Reservations required. Choose your location (Menachem Begin - limited days/hours or Ibn Gvirol) - Voucher valid thru Jan 30, 2018

Eluna offers discount vouchers (most are 20 - 25% off retail price) for the following Tel Aviv area restaurants: Alternative, Aresto (Ceasaria) Armondo, Baker's Pattisserie, Bread & Breakfast (Raanana), Brenner's Wine Bar (Raanana), Cafe Neto (Petach Tikvah), Cafe Neto (Raanana), Cafe Yafo, El Gaucho (Netanya), Entrecoti Petach Tikvah, Fresh Kitchen (Herzliya), Goshen Restaurant, Gueta Restaurant, Hungarian Blintzes, La Lasagna, Marrakesh (Netanya), Matsuya (Ramat Gan),  Meat & Wine (Herzliya), Nagisa (Raanana), Regina, Salta (Raanana),  Sushi Box (Herzliya), Taipei (Netanya), Vici (Raanana), and more!

Sushi Plus in Tel Aviv - 89nis for 2! Voucher valid for 60 days from date of purchase, and not valid on takeaway

La Place in Netanya - Breakfast for 2, for just 59nis. Limit 2 Groupons per table. Show your Groupon before ordering.

Wok and Walk in Kiryat HaSharon - Get a 200nis voucher for just 100nis (use it for a meal for 2)! If you use it for takeaway, there is a 9nis additional fee. Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Limit one Groupon per couple per day. (Over 1000 customers have bought this deal - don't miss out!!)

Gelato Factory in Rishon - starting at 10nis! Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase.

Breakfast Buffet at the Rimonim Tower in Ramat Gan - 59nis for 1, or 115nis for 2. Valid for 30 days from date of purchase. Reservations required. Breakfast buffet is open from 7am - 10am, Sun- Fri

Breakfast Buffet at the Leonardo Boutique Hotel in Rechovot - 59nis for 1, or 115nis for 2. Valid until Oct. 30, but not on Fridays. Reservations required. Breakfast buffet is open from 8am - noon, Sun-Thurs

Dinner for 2 at Hilulim (mehadrin) restaurant in Tel Aviv at the border of Holon, for 169nis. Reservations required. Max 5 Groupons per table. Voucher can be used Sun - Thurs, noon - 11pm. Voucher valid for 90 days from date of purchase, but not on Rosh Chodesh

Shabbat Takeaway from Minei Gan Catering in Netanya - Buy a 100nis voucher for just 50nis! Groupon valid for 90 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed ONLY on Fridays. Limit 1 per household.

HaSushiya in Kfar Saba - Sushi for 2 for 79nis, or an XL sushi platter for 199nis. Valid thru Jan. 10, 2018, but not on Dec. 31. Call in advance!

Lechem Orez in Reut - get your choice of 50% off vouchers. Groupon valid thru Feb. 28, 2018. Max 6 people per table when using Groupon vouchers. Reservations required.

Jerusalem and nearby:

Pizza Hut for 19.90 (for a personal pie + a topping!)! Good at any pizza hut in the country except for the airport. Voucher valid thru Feb. 21, 2018


Breakfast Buffet at the Leonardo Jerusalem, for 69nis per person (or 129nis for 2). Max 6 people at a table using Groupons. Valid thru March 20, 2018. Reservations required.

Eluna offers discount vouchers (most are 20 - 25% off retail price) for the following Jerusalem area restaurants: Atza Sushi Bar, Bardak Bar & Beer, Cafe Cafe Ramot Mall, Fresh Kitchen (Mamilla), Gourmandises, HaSalatiya, Olive & Fish, Sheyan, Waffle Factory

Lunch or Dinner for 2 at Pichonka in Nes Harim, starting at 199nis. Reservations required. Groupon must be redeemed by Feb. 20, 2018. Blackout dates apply. Max 5 Groupons per group. You must show the Groupon before you order, and anyone in your party without a Groupon will be required to place an 80 nis (minimum) order.

Breakfast for 2 at Le Moulinne Dori in the German Colony (55nis or 65nis) Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase, with reservations. Can be redeemed Sun - Thurs, 9am - 3pm

Desserts from "BaTa" in downtown Jerusalem - deals start at just 13nis! (It is kosher, I checked, even though Groupon doesn't specify that it is). Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase, BUT it says to call ahead!

Shakshuk in Machane Yehuda - 58nis for 2! Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Mon - Thurs, 8am - 4:30pm, and Fridays 8am - 1pm

Montefoire (Dairy, Italian) in Yemin Moshe - Starting at 229nis for 2. Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Max 6 Groupons per table. Valid Sun-Thurs, 11am - 9pm and Fridays 11am - 2pm. Reservations required. 

Workshops (meat cooking/butchery) at Ktzizot - including a "Carnivore's meal" and a glass of wine, for 139nis! Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Reservations required. Workshops take place on Mon, Tues, and Thurs, at 6pm and last for 2 hrs.

Takeout for Shabbat/Chag from Ulamei Atzula in Talpiot. Full catered meal for 10 people for 599nis. you must place your order 2 days in advance. Valid thru the end of January

Pescados - (Jerusalem) Lunch for two for just 139nis! Or the Dinner deal for 44% off regular price (your choice of party of 2, or party of 4). 

Buffet Dinner at the Crowne Plaza Hotel (Jerusalem). 1 for 99nis / 2 for 195nis. Groupon valid Sun - Thurs 6:30pm - 9pm. Not valid on Fridays, Shabbat, Holiday eves, or Holidays.

Breakfast Buffet at the Shani Hotel (center of town) - for 49nis (1 person) or 97nis (2 people). Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase.

Get half off at Ta'im BaKerem. Sun - Wed, 4pm - 9pm or Thursday 4pm -8pm. Reservations required. Valid for 60 days from date of purchase.

Haifa and North:

Pizza Hut for 19.90 (for a personal pie + a topping!)! Good at any pizza hut in the country except for the airport. Voucher valid thru Feb. 21, 2018

Eluna offers discount vouchers (most are 20 - 25% off retail price) for the following Northern area restaurants: Baba (Karmiel), Casa Barone (Zichron), Taj Indian Restaurant in Or Akiva, Nili in Zichron Yaakov

300 Grams in Moshav Betzet - All you can eat, starting at 115nis per person (there's an upgrade that includes a glass of wine if you like). Voucher valid thru March 20, 2018. Redeem Sun - Wed, 2-9:30pm or Sat.nights beginning 1.5 hrs after Shabbat until 10pm. Reservations required. Max 6 Groupons per table. Children under 6 can order a kids' meal instead of having a Groupon.

Pizza from Siciliano in Kiryat Chaim for half off! There are a few different vouchers available - a 50nis voucher for 25nis (valid for the whole menu), OR 29nis for a "family size" pizza with a topping, OR  49.90 for a "family meal" deal (pizza plus topping, plus 2 garlic breads plus greek salad). Groupon valid thru Feb. 20th. Not valid for delivery orders.

Takeout food for Shabbat from Pataio Catering in Tirat HaCarmel - get a 100nis voucher for just 50nis! Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase

Breakfast Buffet Deals at the Colony Hotel in Haifa - 49nis for 1, 95nis for 2, or 180nis for 4. Reservations required. Voucher valid for 1 month from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs. (you will be charged an additional 20nis per person if you redeem it on Friday)

Breakfast Buffet at the Leonardo Hotel in Haifa - 79nis for 1/149nis for 2. Valid thru Dec. 31. Can be used Sun-Thurs, 7-10am. Not valid on holidays or erev chag

Sinta Bar (Kiryat Ata) at Kenyon Shaar Hatzafon, Burger meal for 2, for 76nis. Includes 2 burgers, one order of fries, and 2 drinks. Voucher valid for 60 days from date of purchase, and call in advance. Cannot be redeemed on Fridays.

Shela Restaurant (Kiryat Motzkin), for 79nis per couple. Limit 2 vouchers per table. Voucher valid for 90 days from date of purchase, with advance reservations.

Sweet Dream Ice Cream Shop in Lev Hamifratz (Cinemall) for half price! Valid for 90 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs till 9:30am - 9:30pm, Fridays 9am - 2pm, and Sat night from half and hour after Shabbat until 10:30pm 

Two Felafels with French Fries at Olam HaOchel, (or two omelet pitot with french fries) for just 19nis! Valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs till 9am - 5pm, Fridays 8am - 3pm

50% off at Ta'im L'Chulam in Haifa! (The meal includes soup, a meat main dish, 2 sides, a drink, and more!) Voucher valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs till 9am - 5pm.

Olam Ha'Ochel in Haifa (meat restaurant, with tons of salads for the table) for just 35nis per person (69nis for 2!). Groupon valid for 90 days from date of purchase, and only from 8am - 5:30pm (Sun-Thurs) or 8am - 4pm Fridays. limit 8 people with Groupons per table. 


South:

Pizza Hut for 19.90 (for a personal pie + a topping!)! Good at any pizza hut in the country except for the airport. Voucher valid thru Feb. 21, 2018

Greg Kitchen (mehadrin, meat) in Yavneh - here's a deal for a meal for 2, starting at 99nis! Groupon valid thru March 30, 2018. Max 6 people per table with this deal.

Eluna offers discount vouchers (most are 20 - 25% off retail price) for the following Southern area restaurants:  Il Pentolino (Eilat)

Cafe Greg, G mall in Yavneh (mehadrin) - choose a 50nis voucher for anything on the menu (not breakfast though) for half off, or breakfast for two for 79nis! Voucher valid thru March 30, 2018

Marshmallow in Be'er Sheva - Choose breakfast for 2 for 69nis OR a 40 shekel voucher (for one person) for 20 shekels! Valid thru Jan 30, 2018. Limit 3 couples with a Groupon at a table. Redeem Sun - Thurs 9:30am - 6pm

Marshmallow in Be'er Sheva - Pasta dinner for 2 for 79nis, including a dessert (fondue and other "specials" not included) Valid thru Jan 30, 2018
Ribs in Ashdod - 99nis for a 2 person meal! (upgrade that includes wine, dessert, and coffee is available) Voucher valid thru March 28, 2018. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs, noon - 7pm. Reservations required.

Breakfast Buffet at the Leonardo Plaza in Ashdod, voucher for one for 59nis or for two for 116nis. Voucher valid thru Feb. 28, 2018. Redeem Sun - Fri 6:30 - 10:30am, with reservations.

Hummus Cohen (mehadrin) in Ashdod - have lunch for 23nis! Groupon valid thru Feb. 28, 2018, limit 4 Groupons per table. Not valid for takeaway.

Captain Crepe in Ashkelon - save 50%! Groupon valid thru Feb. 15, 2018. Limit 6 Groupons per table.

Shipudei Hatikvah in Ashkelon - get a meal for 2 for 99nis! Reservations required. Groupon valid thru Feb. 28, 2018.

Takeout Food for Shabbat from Ofra Gourmet in Ashdod - Get an 80nis voucher for just 40nis! Limit one voucher per person. Can only be redeemed on Fridays. Valid thru January 30, 2018. (Almost 3000 people have bought this deal! Do they know something you don't know?!)

Lunch at "Space" in Moshav Amonim - 139nis for 1, 279nis for 2, or 549nis for 4. Voucher valid thru June 30, 2018. Check for blackout dates, and reservations required. Generally valid Sun-Thurs noon - 5:30pm or Fridays noon - 2pm. Anyone in your party without a Groupon voucher will be required to order 100nis minimum from the menu, and children under 10 will be required to order a 40nis children's meal. According to the info posted, you can use their gardens (and pool, maybe) before and after your meal.

Pizza HaGesher in Be'er Sheva (Mehadrin) - Get an XL pie for just 29nis! Sun - Thurs, 11am - 8pm, and Fridays 11am - 4pm. Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. You can redeem multiple vouchers at one time.

Ola Chef's Restaurant in Eilat, for 129nis per person, or 255nis for two. Reservations required. Not valid on Holidays or Erev Chag. Groupon valid for 2 months from date of purchase. Redeem Sun-Thurs 1pm - 11pm or Sat. nights.

Have you joined Groupon Israel's Best Deals on Facebook? Join us there and you'll find out about awesome deals every day! 

Latest Food Recalls!

There have been several recalls lately, that I'm only getting around to posting right now.

Check your stash to see if you have them - these foods may cause serious illness. 
Read on for details:

Product Name: Techina Hararit
Package Size: 500g jar
Barcode: 7290002862550
Expiration Date: 17/10/2019
Additional Info: Made in Turkey

This product is being recalled due to possible salmonella contamination. If you have purchased this product, DO NOT use it. Please return it to the place where purchased for a refund. If you have questions, please call the company at 04-998-2980

Product Name: Pomegranate Sauce (Diplomat brand)
Package Size: 235ml, 750ml
Barcode: 8691530010793, 8691530211930
Expiration Date: 01/2017
Additional Info: Made in Turkey

This product is being recalled due to mold contamination. If you have purchased this product, DO NOT use it. Please call the company at 1-800-250-221 to arrange for a refund or replacement.

Product Name: Ethan's Cakes, multiple varieties
Expiration Dates: 21/03/18 thru 05/04/18 (inclusive)
Additional Info: The recalled varieties are listed below: 

These products are being recalled due to possible listeria contamination. If you have purchased any of these products, DO NOT use them. Please call the company at 08-933-1600 to arrange for a refund or replacement.

Product Name: PopStar Microwave Popcorn, Natural Flavor
Expiration Dates: 9/05/2018, 21/11/2018, 21/01/2019, 22/01/2019, 27/02/2019, 30/05/2019
Additional Info: Made in Bulgaria

These products are being recalled due to an unexpected unpleasant smell. If you have purchased these products, DO NOT use them. Please call the company at 03-903-0333 to arrange for a refund or replacement.


Product Name: Achva Halva, Chocolate-Vanilla Flavor
Package Size: 400g
Barcode: 7290000572543
Expiration Dates: 30.11.2018
Additional Info: production code 17-334

These products are being recalled due to possible salmonella contamination. If you have purchased these products, DO NOT use them. Please call the company at 03-906-8020 to arrange for a refund or replacement.


Stay safe from food poisoning - make sure anyone who may have bought these products knows not to use them!

Want to stay up to date in the future? Be sure to follow me on Facebook!

Series: Financial Assistance in Israel (Part 5)

It's been a while since I worked on this series, but I realized there was a big piece I left out, so I wanted to fill you in today about it.

Be sure to check out the other installments in this series:

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4

Today, I'm going to give you the basics of one that many people already know about, but some don't: Arnona Discounts.

Misrad Hapnim has some say in Arnona rates and discounts, and all the various discounts are listed on their website. You can see them here, in the original Hebrew.

There are a lot of different categories, including Holocaust survivors, People with Disabilities, Former Refuseniks, Righteous Gentiles, Senior Citizens, and more. Today I am going to focus on the "Low Income" category. (Family size/income levels/discount amount taken from Kol Zchut.)

Here's what you need to know:

You apply for the discount at your local municipal offices by filling out a form.

You will be asked to supply copies your tlushim (payslips) from the last several months. If you are atzmai, you will be asked to supply a certain amount of documentation.

In some cases the municipality will order a full financial audit before granting the discount.

In most cases, the discount applies to the arnona charges for the the first 100m - if your home is bigger than 100m you pay the full rate on the portion over 100m.

The table below will help you determine if you are eligible for an Arnona discount. Look for your family size, and determine whether your monthly income is in a discount-eligible bracket.

Family size       Monthly Income (up to this amount)            Discount amount

1                               2838                                          up to 80%
                                 2838 - 3263                               up to 60%
                                 3263 - 3689                               up to 40%

2                               4256                                          up to 80%
                                 4256 - 4895                               up to 60%
                                 4895 - 5533                               up to 40%

3                               4938                                           up to 80%
                                 4938 - 5678                                up to 60%
                                 5678 - 6419                                up to 40%

4                               5619                                           up to 80%
                                 5619 - 6462                                up to 60%
                                 6462 - 7304                                up to 40%

5                               6919                                           up to 80%
                                 6919 - 7957                                up to 60%
                                 7957 - 8994                                up to 40%

6                               8219                                           up to 80%
                                 8219 - 9451                                up to 60%
                                 9451 - 10,684                             up to 40%

7                               9519                                            up to 90%
                                 9519 - 10,946                              up to 70%
                                 10,946 - 12,374                           up to 50%

8                                10,818                                         up to 90%
                                  10,818 - 12,441                           up to 70%            
                                  12,441 - 14,064                           up to 50%

9                                12,118                                          up to 90%
                                  12,118 - 13,963                            up to 70%
                                  13,963 - 15,754                            up to 50%

10+                            up to 1346 per person                 up to 90%
                                  up to 1548 per person                 up to 70%
                                  up to 1750 per person                 up to 50%


I hope this information helps some people out there get the discount they deserve on their Arnona (municipal taxes)! And to those who hesitate to ask for this discount - please don't hesitate! Getting this discount will help you out, and there is nothing to be embarrassed about if you apply for it. Asking for this discount (that you deserve) does not make you less of a responsible person, it just means your income needs a boost, like so many others in this country. And this is one way the government gives you that boost. So go ahead and apply!


Please share this post with your English speaking friends in Israel, so as many people as possible who are eligible for these discounts can go apply for them!


And don't forget to find me on Facebook, so you never miss out on a money-saving post!

Living in Israel, Shopping online (Gifts, too!): What you need to know about TAXES & FEES

this post contains affiliate links

package from purchase abroad - tax free!

Shopping online and wondering what to expect regarding taxes and fees? This guide will help you understand the basics that apply to residents of Israel when shopping online from overseas. Most of us shop this way to save money, so who wants a tax bill surprise when the order gets here? This post will help you avoid a tax bill (legally, of course!).

Note: the same regulations apply to packages sent from abroad, even if they are gifts!

Here's the rundown (the full regulations can be found on the Israel tax authority's site)

Your purchase or package, no matter what currency it was in, will be translated into US Dollars by the tax authority (using the exchange rate of the day they process it) to determine if it's taxable:

Purchases up to $75/Packages with a declared value up to $75 - no taxes

Purchases or packages with a declared value above $75, up to $500 - no customs taxes, but VAT will apply in most cases (17% currently), and Purchase Tax (variable rates) may apply (purchase tax applies to very few items at this point!)

Purchases or packages with a declared value over $500 - subject to all taxes (VAT , Purchase Tax (if applicable), and Customs Tax)

Please take note that purchases and packages (even gifts) of up to $75 in value will be subject to customs clearance fees if they arrive using an EMS service* (about 35 shekels), and if the value of the purchase is higher, the customs clearance fee can be higher as well. Other fees are often added on by shipping companies, as there is really not much oversight! I recently saw a bill that included the following fees: Handling fees, Import approval fee, VAT, Computer fee, Unloading fee, Storage fee. Watch out for these fees from shipping companies/courier services. I recommend you always try to get your packages via a service that guarantees your fees have all been prepaid.

Please be aware that the purchase price only (not purchase + shipping) will determine whether an item will be taxed. Once it is found to be taxable, however, applicable taxes will be calculated on the purchase price + the shipping price.

One more important point: If you order multiple orders from the same seller and they arrive within 72 hours of each other, customs may combine the orders and treat them as one purchase for tax purposes. They may not. But it is a possibility you should be aware of before you place multiple orders.

If your order is stuck in customs, or if you feel like you were charged tax by mistake, you will need to contact the customs office nearest you.

Here's the contact info for the various offices, taken from the meches website. I couldn't find any email addresses, sorry.

Tel Aviv
Derech HaHagana 137, Yad Eliyahu, Tel Aviv
Tel: 03-942-1730
Fax: 03-942-1733

Jerusalem
Mercaz Shatner, Givat Shaul B, Jerusalem 91999
Tel: 02-652-6193
Fax: 02-651-1589

Haifa
Sderot Pal Yam 19, Shakmona, POB 245, Haifa 31999
Tel: 04-866-4130
Fax: 04-666-9803

Eilat
Central Post Office, The Red Mall, Eilat 83100
Tel: 08-632-6476
Fax: 08-866-9702

Some of these regulations are different from what some people seem to believe, so please refer back to this guide if you are about to place an order and you're not sure what to expect from the tax-man.

If you're not sure where to start shopping online, I've compiled a list of websites that offer low cost shipping to Israel! Please be sure to check it out! Let's help open Israel's marketplace and bring down our cost of living without bringing down our standard of living!

Some of my favorite websites to shop from are:

BetterWorldBooks.com ~ iHerb ~ AliExpress ~ eChemist ~ iWOOT

Be sure to check out the whole list!


*Examples of EMS services - Express Mail, Fedex, UPS and other express delivery services. Sometimes DHL is EMS and sometimes it is not.

Deals - Vacations, Shows, and Attractions

(This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission when you make a purchase. Thanks for your support!) 

Kosherfrugal.com and Janglo have teamed up to bring you some great Groupon deals you don't want to miss!

This fall, you can save BIG with discount vouchers and savings on vacations and entertainment - the links in this post will take you to discount deals for each place listed. Hurry, some deals sell out quickly!

Click here for Restaurant Deals!

Need help getting to the show or workshop? Gett Taxi has vouchers on Groupon right now! Get your 50nis voucher for as low as 5nis!

Vacation and Spa Day Deals:

Take a break with a long weekend in Athens! 4 nights at a hotel and FLIGHTS are included in this price! Starts at 999nis per person (you must buy 2 deals - the price is per person, with the understanding that 2 people will be sharing a hotel room).

Spa Day at the Canaan Spa in Tzfat. A real pampering experience! Packages start at 300nis


Spa Day for two at the Daniel Hotel (Dead Sea). starts at 299nis!

Spa Day at the Ein Gedi Sea of Spa - 155nis for 2, 306nis for 4, 441nis for 6 

Vacation at Lehavot HaBashan, starting at 479nis per night!

Vacation in Eilat, including flights - for 459nis per person (this deal requires you to buy in multiples of 2 - the price is dependent upon having 2 people in a room)!

Vacation Villa that sleeps 8, with plenty of amenities, including a heated pool! For just 1589 per night (for EIGHT people!) In Nof Kinneret. You must call within 48 hrs of purchase to reserve your stay. There are blackout dates.

Book an RV for your family vacation! Packages start at 849nis for 2 nights.

Istrotel Ramon Inn has great midweek deals! Packages for single or couple, for families, or for up to 5 adults in a suite. Includes breakfast and amenities!

Workshops and Attractions:

Exclusive Deal: Get 10% off at the Maimonides Puzzle Room in Tiberias. Use code "Kosherfrugal" when you make your reservation! Reservations required. Call 053-530-3018 to reserve your time slot.

Discount tix for the Kotel Train! The Family Pack is definitely the best deal!

Discount Membership at the Ramat Gan Safari. Pay just 169nis per person (you must purchase at least 2 deals and make it a "family membership). Activate by Dec. 31, 2017. Membership is valid for 12 months from activation. 

Hot Air Balloon rides for 38nis (children ages 3-8) or 59nis (age 8+) - in Tel Aviv

Discount Admission to JumpPark in Rishon! Open extended hours during vacation. Use by Dec. 31, 2017

Admission to MadaTech in Haifa - including special Chanukah activities - for 55nis per person (children under 5 do not need to buy a ticket)

Biankini Beach at the Dead Sea - discount weekday admission. The beach offers plenty of Dead Sea Mud, and also has swimming pools!

Off-roading near the Dead Sea, for 459nis! 4 people per vehicle. Children 4 and up must have an adult with them.

Discount Admission to Yotvata Park, in the Negev - 33nis per person (add a few shekels, and ice cream is included!) Valid thru Feb. 1, 2018

Ice Skating at Montfort Lake, deals start at 35nis! (includes skate rental) Or choose the Combo deals, starting at 55nis!

Laser Tag Planet in Haifa, 209nis for 4 players! (309nis for 6 players, 409nis for 8 players!) Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Reservations Required.

Space Laser in Jerusalem. This voucher is half price! 

Pottery Workshops in Tel Aviv - 3 sessions for 199nis! (Save 50%!) Workshops are on Fridays, reservations required. You can choose to book for one person, two people, or 4 people.

Petting Zoo in Kibbutz Deganya for 21nis per person

Beer Making Workshop in Jerusalem, for just 249nis. Two sessions, totaling 8 hrs.

Psagot Winery Tours, starting at just 24nis per person!

Shows:

Aladdin the Musical, with locations throughout the country, there's sure to be one near you! Tix are 59nis for one, or 199nis for four!

Bravo Circus showing in locations throughout the country this December (Chanuka time) - tix are just 49nis with this deal!

Hakuna Matata - showing all over the country, including Bet Shean, Teverya, Kiryat Shmona, Nahariya, Kibbutz Yifat, Kfar Sava, Tel Aviv, Be'er Sheva, Ashdod, Airport City, and more! Family tix are 199nis for 4 people!

"Shakespeare in Love" (in Hebrew) in Tel Aviv Dec. 24 and 25 - Groupon tix are over 50% off list price!

Les Miserables (in Hebrew) in Tel Aviv ! Groupon tix are just 99nis!

Here's a deal for a subscription to shows at HaBimah theater - choose 2 tickets to any of the shows in the next year, 4 tickets to any of the shows in the next year, or 6 tickets to any of the shows in the next year!

Hope you enjoy these deals! Let me know which ones are your favorites!

Tons of Kosher Restaurant Deals!

(This post contains affiliate links, and I may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking a link. Thanks in advance for your support!)  

Kosherfrugal.com and Janglo have teamed up to bring you some great Groupon deals and Eluna deals (and other deals) you don't want to miss!

This post focuses exclusively on kosher restaurants and take-out food, so if you're going to splurge, you can now afford to splurge a little more, with discount vouchers and savings. I keep checking for new deals, as I know you've been waiting for some, and this week there are some changes, so check carefully! Be sure to check the Facebook group so you don't miss out!

Also, Janglo Beteavone has a great selection of restaurant coupons. Be sure to check http://shop.beteavone.com for deals you won't find anywhere else! But supplies are extremely limited, so hurry before they're gone.

Make sure you feed your pets too - check out this discount voucher for Zoolu. Valid at stores around the country, thru Feb. 18, 2018.

Pre-purchasing your vouchers and saving up to 50% is a GREAT way to save when you want to indulge! Don't miss out on the savings!

Click here for Hotels, Shows, and Attractions!
Tel Aviv and Nearby:

Eluna offers discount vouchers (most are 20 - 25% off retail price) for the following Tel Aviv area restaurants: Alternative, Armondo, Baker's Pattisserie, Bread & Breakfast (Raanana), Brenner's Wine Bar (Raanana), Cafe Neto (Petach Tikvah), Cafe Neto (Raanana), Cafe Yafo, El Gaucho (Netanya), Entrecoti Petach Tikvah, Goshen Restaurant, Gueta Restaurant, Hungarian Blintzes, Kitchen Bar (Netanya), La Lasagna, Marrakesh (Netanya), Matsuya (Ramat Gan), Regina, Salta (Raanana),  Taipei (Netanya), and more!

Sushi Plus in Tel Aviv - 89nis for 2! Voucher valid for 60 days from date of purchase, and not valid on takeaway

La Place in Netanya - Breakfast for 2, for just 59nis. Limit 2 Groupons per table. Show your Groupon before ordering.

Wok and Walk in Kiryat HaSharon - Get a 200nis voucher for just 100nis (use it for a meal for 2)! If you use it for takeaway, there is a 9nis additional fee. Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Limit one Groupon per couple per day. (Over 1000 customers have bought this deal - don't miss out!!)

Chuma in Gan Ha'Ir (Tel Aviv) - Meat, Middle Eastern Menu. They say "come hungry!" Choose a deal for 2 for 169nis, or for 4 for 329nis. Limit 1 Groupon per table. Reservations required. Voucher can be redeemed Sun - Thurs, 11am - 10:30pm (free parking after 5pm), and is valid thru Dec. 30, 2017

Gelato Factory in Rishon - starting at 10nis! Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase.

Cafe Yafo at Shuk Hapishpushim in Tel Aviv - get your 60nis voucher for just 30nis! Groupon valid thru Dec. 31, 2017, but not during Chanukah. Not valid for takeaway. Up to 2 vouchers can be used per table, and each person must have their own voucher (you cannot use one voucher to order a meal to share, sorry). During breakfast hours, only one voucher per table will be accepted. 

Breakfast Buffet at the Rimonim Tower in Ramat Gan - 59nis for 1, or 115nis for 2. Valid for 30 days from date of purchase. Reservations required. Breakfast buffet is open from 7am - 10am, Sun- Fri

Breakfast Buffet at the Leonardo Boutique Hotel in Rechovot - 59nis for 1, or 115nis for 2. Valid until Oct. 30, but not on Fridays. Reservations required. Breakfast buffet is open from 8am - noon, Sun-Thurs

Dinner for 2 at Hilulim (mehadrin) restaurant in Tel Aviv at the border of Holon, for 169nis. Reservations required. Max 5 Groupons per table. Voucher can be used Sun - Thurs, noon - 11pm. Voucher valid for 90 days from date of purchase, but not on Rosh Chodesh

Save 50% at Cafe Paradiso TLV. Can be used Sun-Thurs 9am - 6pm and Fri 9am-11am. Breakfast menu is available till 1pm. Voucher valid thru Dec 30.

Shabbat Takeaway from Minei Gan Catering in Netanya - Buy a 100nis voucher for just 50nis! Groupon valid for 90 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed ONLY on Fridays. Limit 1 per household.

Grill Market in Raanana - Meal for 2 for 113nis! Reservations recommended. Groupon valid thru Dec. 30, 2017, and can be used Sun - Thurs, noon - 10pm

HaSushiya in Kfar Saba - Sushi for 2 for 79nis, or an XL sushi platter for 199nis. Valid thru Jan. 10, 2018, but not on Dec. 31. Call in advance!

Lechem Orez in Reut - get your choice of 50% off vouchers. Groupon valid thru Feb. 28, 2018. Max 6 people per table when using Groupon vouchers. Reservations required.

Jerusalem and nearby:

Eluna offers discount vouchers (most are 20 - 25% off retail price) for the following Jerusalem area restaurants: Atza Sushi Bar, Bardak Bar & Beer, Cafe Cafe Ramot Mall, Cafe Michael, Fresh Kitchen (Mamilla), Gourmandises, Olive & Fish, Pompidou Bistro and Bar, Sheyan, Waffle Factory

Lunch or Dinner for 2 at Pichonka in Nes Harim, starting at 199nis. Reservations required. Groupon must be redeemed by Feb. 20, 2018. Blackout dates apply. Max 5 Groupons per group. You must show the Groupon before you order, and anyone in your party without a Groupon will be required to place an 80 nis (minimum) order.

Breakfast for 2 at Le Moulinne Dori in the German Colony (55nis or 65nis) Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase, with reservations. Can be redeemed Sun - Thurs, 9am - 3pm

Desserts from "BaTa" in downtown Jerusalem - deals start at just 13nis! (It is kosher, I checked, even though Groupon doesn't specify that it is). Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase, BUT it says to call ahead!

Shakshuk in Machane Yehuda - 58nis for 2! Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Mon - Thurs, 8am - 4:30pm, and Fridays 8am - 1pm

Montefoire (Dairy, Italian) in Yemin Moshe - Starting at 229nis for 2. Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Max 6 Groupons per table. Valid Sun-Thurs, 11am - 9pm and Fridays 11am - 2pm. Reservations required. 

Mehadrin Cheese Platters from Maccabi Gvinot in Givat Shaul (French cheeses), starting at 149nis. Treat yourself to decadence! Groupon valid thru the end of December. You must order your platter one day in advance, and pick up from Givat Shaul.

Workshops (meat cooking/butchery) at Ktzizot - including a "Carnivore's meal" and a glass of wine, for 139nis! Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Reservations required. Workshops take place on Mon, Tues, and Thurs, at 6pm and last for 2 hrs.

Takeout for Shabbat/Chag from Ulamei Atzula in Talpiot. Full catered meal for 10 people for 599nis. you must place your order 2 days in advance. Valid thru the end of January

Pescados - (Jerusalem) Lunch for two for just 139nis! Or the Dinner deal for 44% off regular price (your choice of party of 2, or party of 4). 

Buffet Dinner at the Crowne Plaza Hotel (Jerusalem). 1 for 99nis / 2 for 195nis. Groupon valid Sun - Thurs 6:30pm - 9pm. Not valid on Fridays, Shabbat, Holiday eves, or Holidays.

Breakfast Buffet at the Shani Hotel (center of town) - for 49nis (1 person) or 97nis (2 people). Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase.

Get half off at Ta'im BaKerem. Sun - Wed, 4pm - 9pm or Thursday 4pm -8pm. Reservations required. Valid for 60 days from date of purchase.

Haifa and North:

Eluna offers discount vouchers (most are 20 - 25% off retail price) for the following Northern area restaurants: Baba (Karmiel), Casa Barone (Zichron), Taj Indian Restaurant in Or Akiva, Nili in Zichron Yaakov

300 Grams in Moshav Betzet - All you can eat, starting at 115nis per person (there's an upgrade that includes a glass of wine if you like). Voucher valid thru March 20, 2018. Redeem Sun - Wed, 2-9:30pm or Sat.nights beginning 1.5 hrs after Shabbat until 10pm. Reservations required. Max 6 Groupons per table. Children under 6 can order a kids' meal instead of having a Groupon.

Pizza from Siciliano in Kiryat Chaim for half off! There are a few different vouchers available - a 50nis voucher for 25nis (valid for the whole menu), OR 29nis for a "family size" pizza with a topping, OR  49.90 for a "family meal" deal (pizza plus topping, plus 2 garlic breads plus greek salad). Groupon valid thru Feb. 20th. Not valid for delivery orders.

Japan! Japan! in Kiryat Ata, for 50% off! Groupon valid thru Dec. 30. Can be redeemed Sun- Thurs, 11am - 7pm, and Fridays 11am - 3pm. Max 3 Groupons per group

Takeout food for Shabbat from Pataio Catering in Tirat HaCarmel - get a 100nis voucher for just 50nis! Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase

Breakfast Buffet Deals at the Colony Hotel in Haifa - 49nis for 1, 95nis for 2, or 180nis for 4. Reservations required. Voucher valid for 1 month from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs. (you will be charged an additional 20nis per person if you redeem it on Friday)

Breakfast Buffet at the Leonardo Hotel in Haifa - 79nis for 1/149nis for 2. Valid thru Dec. 31. Can be used Sun-Thurs, 7-10am. Not valid on holidays or erev chag

Sinta Bar (Kiryat Ata) at Kenyon Shaar Hatzafon, Burger meal for 2, for 76nis. Includes 2 burgers, one order of fries, and 2 drinks. Voucher valid for 60 days from date of purchase, and call in advance. Cannot be redeemed on Fridays.

Shela Restaurant (Kiryat Motzkin), for 79nis per couple. Limit 2 vouchers per table. Voucher valid for 90 days from date of purchase, with advance reservations.

Sweet Dream Ice Cream Shop in Lev Hamifratz (Cinemall) for half price! Valid for 90 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs till 9:30am - 9:30pm, Fridays 9am - 2pm, and Sat night from half and hour after Shabbat until 10:30pm 

Two Felafels with French Fries at Olam HaOchel, (or two omelet pitot with french fries) for just 19nis! Valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs till 9am - 5pm, Fridays 8am - 3pm

50% off at Ta'im L'Chulam in Haifa! (The meal includes soup, a meat main dish, 2 sides, a drink, and more!) Voucher valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs till 9am - 5pm.

Olam Ha'Ochel in Haifa (meat restaurant, with tons of salads for the table) for just 35nis per person (69nis for 2!). Groupon valid for 90 days from date of purchase, and only from 8am - 5:30pm (Sun-Thurs) or 8am - 4pm Fridays. limit 8 people with Groupons per table. 

Breakfast for 2 at the Ramada Resort, Hadera, for 139nis. Valid thru Dec. 31, 2017.  Reservations required. Can be redeemed Sun- Thurs, 7-10am

South:

Eluna offers discount vouchers (most are 20 - 25% off retail price) for the following Southern area restaurants:  Il Pentolino (Eilat)

Cafe Greg, G mall in Yavneh (mehadrin) - choose a 50nis voucher for anything on the menu (not breakfast though) for half off, or breakfast for two for 79nis! Voucher valid thru March 30, 2018

Marshmallow in Be'er Sheva - Choose breakfast for 2 for 69nis OR a 40 shekel voucher (for one person) for 20 shekels! Valid thru Jan 30, 2018 but cannot be redeemed until after Dec 21, 2017. Limit 3 couples with a Groupon at a table. Redeem Sun - Thurs 9:30am - 6pm

Marshmallow in Be'er Sheva - Pasta dinner for 2 for 79nis, including a dessert (fondue and other "specials" not included) Valid thru Jan 30, 2018, but not during Chanukah

Ribs in Ashdod - 99nis for a 2 person meal! (upgrade that includes wine, dessert, and coffee is available) Voucher valid thru March 28, 2018. Can be redeemed Sun-Thurs, noon - 7pm. Reservations required

Fuji Asiati in Be'er Sheva - 50% off vouchers available! Voucher valid for 60 days from date of purchase. Redeem Sun - Thurs, noon - 9pm. Max 4 Groupons per table

Pizza Agvaniya - choose a voucher for one (29nis), two (79nis), or four (155nis). The voucher for one is good for one meal from the menu up to 38nis, the vouchers for two and four come with extras and are valid for other options as well. Voucher valid thru Dec. 31, 2018. Reservations required.

Breakfast Buffet at the Leonardo Plaza in Ashdod, voucher for one for 59nis or for two for 116nis. Voucher valid thru Feb. 28, 2018. Redeem Sun - Fri 6:30 - 10:30am, with reservations.

Hummus Cohen (mehadrin) in Ashdod - have lunch for 23nis! Groupon valid thru Feb. 28, 2018, limit 4 Groupons per table. Not valid for takeaway.

Captain Crepe in Ashkelon - save 50%! Groupon valid thru Feb. 15, 2018. Limit 6 Groupons per table.

Shipudei Hatikvah in Ashkelon - get a meal for 2 for 99nis! Reservations required. Groupon valid thru Feb. 28, 2018, but NOT on Chanukah.

Takeout Food for Shabbat from Ofra Gourmet in Ashdod - Get an 80nis voucher for just 40nis! Limit one voucher per person. Can only be redeemed on Fridays. Valid thru January 30, 2018. (Almost 3000 people have bought this deal! Do they know something you don't know?!)

Breakfast for Two at HaShaon in Ashdod, for just 49nis! Limit 4 people per table with the Groupon. Valid thru Dec. 30, 2017

Lunch at "Space" in Moshav Amonim - 139nis for 1, 279nis for 2, or 549nis for 4. Voucher valid thru June 30, 2018. Check for blackout dates, and reservations required. Generally valid Sun-Thurs noon - 5:30pm or Fridays noon - 2pm. Anyone in your party without a Groupon voucher will be required to order 100nis minimum from the menu, and children under 10 will be required to order a 40nis children's meal. According to the info posted, you can use their gardens (and pool, maybe) before and after your meal.

Pizza HaGesher in Be'er Sheva (Mehadrin) - Get an XL pie for just 29nis! Sun - Thurs, 11am - 8pm, and Fridays 11am - 4pm. Groupon valid for 60 days from date of purchase. You can redeem multiple vouchers at one time.

HaMeksikani in Ashkelon, for just 25nis per person! Groupon valid thru Dec. 30, Sun-Thurs, 3pm - 10pm. Take away and Delivery is not available with the Groupon

Ola Chef's Restaurant in Eilat, for 129nis per person, or 255nis for two. Reservations required. Not valid on Holidays or Erev Chag. Groupon valid for 2 months from date of purchase. Redeem Sun-Thurs 1pm - 11pm or Sat. nights.

Have you joined Groupon Israel's Best Deals on Facebook? Join us there and you'll find out about awesome deals every day!