Yaakov Ben Ezra the Fisherman and Restaurateur Celebrates 90: From the Provinces of Morocco to Shemesh Davar in Atlit

(haipo) – The Old Man and the Sea: Yaakov Ben Ezra the Fisherman, one of the most prominent names in the restaurant world in the 90s, celebrated his 90th birthday at an exciting family event in Atlit. The man who founded "Ezra the Fisherman," a restaurant that became a well-known and beloved institution, closed a circle of a lifetime of hard work, love of the sea, and a broad heart that knew how to accommodate every person he met on his way.

Childhood in Morocco and Aliyah to the Land of Israel

Yaakov Ben Ezra was born in Morocco and immigrated to Israel as a teenager as part of the youth immigration. He was accepted into Kibbutz Hulata, where he began his journey in the world of the sea and fishing. His work as a "skipper" on Lake Hula included transporting passengers to Derdara, a settlement that was then on the northern border. Even under Syrian fire across the border, Yaakov did not give up - he continued his work quietly and determinedly, while demonstrating the courage and stability that characterized him throughout his life. During his military service, Yaakov utilized his navigational skills and led soldiers on missions on Lake Hula, under fire from the Syrians, who at that time held the Golan Heights and were sniping at Israelis living in the Upper Galilee.

Ben Ezra the Fisherman – Life Story in Song and Videos – Watch:

A love born on the banks of the Sea of ​​Galilee

During his work in the youth immigration program, Yaakov met the love of his life – his future wife, who came from Kibbutz Alumot. Their relationship became a real life partnership, full of love, manual labor and optimism. They moved between kibbutzim together, and later to Kibbutz Nevi’im, where Yaakov worked in a horse-drawn cart and fished in the ponds. At night he went fishing, and in the morning he sold his catch to the residents of Atlit. Even then, his outstanding qualities were revealed: diligence, giving, and always – a broad smile and a kind word for everyone.

The transition to Atlit and the beginning of the independent path

After a period on the kibbutz, the family moved to Atlit, then a young village. There they built their home on HaZayit Street – a warm home, full of cooking smells, the joy of life, and the laughter of children. Yaakov worked as a coastal fisherman, and often went on long fishing trips. His fishing friends, including Eitan and other friends, say that his boats always returned loaded with boxes of fish – a testament to professionalism and passion for the profession. The Ben Ezra family’s home was always open – a place where everyone found a hot meal and a listening ear.

"Ben Ezra the Fisherman" Restaurant – From a Local Institution to a Culinary Legend

In the late 60s and early 70s, Yaakov and his wife Margalit decided to turn their love of the sea and food into a real business. Thus was born the "Ezra the Fisherman" restaurant in Atlit – a place that quickly became a household name. Fresh fish straight from the sea, homemade salads, a family atmosphere, and warm and pleasant service – all of these made the place a sought-after culinary destination. Yaakov, with his charismatic presence, spoke to each diner as if they were a guest in his home. The restaurant's secret recipe was not just the taste of the fish, but the generous heart of its owners.

The family is expanding – a proud next generation

Over the years, the family grew and grew stronger. Children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were born and brought endless joy to the Ben Ezra household. Every family event – ​​a bar mitzvah, a wedding, or a birthday – was an opportunity for a shared celebration around a table laden with delicacies, jokes, and memories from the sea. Even when Yaakov’s wife passed away, she remained present in the memory and at every family table. Their love and partnership were clearly evident in future generations.

Farewell to the restaurant and new life in the next episode

The closure of the restaurant, which was an integral part of his life story, was both an exciting and painful chapter for Yaakov. Life also brought with it challenging times – the Corona virus, the wars, and the loneliness after a loss. But as always, Yaakov chose to look forward. With that quiet smile and deep faith, he continued to cherish his family, the memories, and the long road he had traveled.

The 90th Anniversary Celebration – A Moment of Summary and Hope

The 90th birthday event was held in the Atlit Hall, attended by family, friends and grandchildren. A moving video clip was shown on the screen, accompanied by a song written especially for the occasion. A birthday cake in the shape of a fish, with a surprise inside, reminded everyone of Yaakov's unique life story - a story of a fisherman who became a symbol of perseverance, love and mutual commitment.

A man of people – the heart that continues to shine

Ofer Ben Ezra, Yaakov's son, gave a moving speech at the event and said: "Father, there are people who are unknown from the day they are born until they die, and you have become a brand." These words well described the character of Yaakov Ben Ezra - a simple and humble man, but full of light. A character who symbolizes the beautiful Israeliness: hard work, dedication, love of people, and the ability to see the good in every situation.

A legacy of love and values ​​for future generations

The life story of Yaakov Ben Ezra is more than a personal story – it represents an entire generation of immigrants who built the country with their own hands. That generation, which knew hardships but did not lose hope, laid the foundations for future generations. Yaakov’s legacy continues to live on in the hearts of his children and grandchildren – a legacy of work, love, generosity and humility.