Interview (in 2004) with Ibrahim Zaghari from Bethany, Bar Manager since 1984 and at the Colony since 1980. The American Colony is a landmark in Jerusalem, founded by American Christians headed by the Vesser family at the end of the 19th century. It was first located in the Old City and later moved to its current home. .

 

The history of the room:

Originally, before this complex became The American Colony, it was a private palace of the Husseini family. This room was at one point used for dairy production – such as yoghurt and cheese – and at another time was a dining space for the American Colony staff.

 

About Mrs. Vesser:

I know her very well. She is the most beautiful person I ever saw in my life. I grew up here and I never saw her act badly towards anyone. She is a lady in all senses of the word. She is now 93, but in full control. Currently she serves as chairman of the board and she is one of the owners of The American Colony. She likes to spend time in the garden.

 

About the design and renovation of the room:

When I came here in 1980, the area was pretty much the same, but the bar was smaller. We enlarged it. I think the tables have been here since 1976. The couches are Syrian style, covered with striped fabric called Damascus material or "keemask Damashk" in Arabic. Three years ago we added new chairs and chose fabric to match the original upholstery from a place near Nahariya. Fancy leather or modern design is not appropriate for this room. We need to be careful what to choose because the feel is classic oriental.

 

About the cuisine:

Though we are a bar, we also have a small menu. Every night there is a different special, such as fish or pasta.

 

Customers' favorite foods:

There isn't really a favorite, though on Wednesday night they prefer the fish special.

 

Manager's favorite food:

Beef fillet with vegetables, sauce and potatoes.

 

Customer's favorite drinks:

The cocktails. Especially margaritas and martinis.

 

Most famous people to visit the bar:

Peter Ustinov, Jimmy Carter, Kofi Annan - before he became secretary general at the U.N.

 

About the clientele:

About 60 percent are foreigners. There are the hotel clients – those who stay here – from the press, diplomats, businessmen and bankers. There are NGO's and other foreigners who live here. About 40 percent are locals. Most of the locals are Arab, but some Israelis come here. Before more used to come. Right now there is not a single tourist. It has been like this for about three years since the situation began.

 

What do you like to do when you are not here?

I work long hours and it is not easy trying to make everyone happy. When I am not here I like to be with my family and in my garden. I also enjoy traveling to Europe.