The Olive Branch Pizzeria: A Palestinian Culinary Haven in Philadelphia

When Isharif Ahmad was a child, mentioning that he was from Palestine often confused people—they sometimes assumed he was Pakistani. Today, reactions are dramatically different.

Ahmad, 27, owns The Olive Branch Pizzeria, a family-run eatery in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood. Since opening in November 2024, the pizzeria has become both a culinary destination and a symbol of cultural pride for the local community.

Roots in Palestine

Although born in Philadelphia, Ahmad’s heart is deeply tied to the West Bank. His first visit in July 2021 brought an overwhelming sense of connection: the morning sounds, the bustling markets, and the vibrant streets made him feel instantly at home.

“Even the yelling of people selling stuff … it just makes you feel at home,” Ahmad said. “You resonate with it because of where your parents come from and how they raised you.”

His second trip, in 2023, gave him the chance to explore the country further. The visit concluded just a week before October 7, 2023—a date that would forever mark his awareness of the ongoing tragedy in Gaza. With relatives living in the besieged region, the genocide cast a shadow over his life and that of his family.

“Getting that news, it’s so close to home,” Ahmad said. “There’s no way to avoid it … Even if you’re not looking at the phone, it’s a direct change in your life when you lose somebody in the war.”

When a ceasefire was announced in early October, Ahmad and his family felt relief and cautious hope.

A Restaurant That Tells a Story

The name Olive Branch symbolizes both peace and Palestinian heritage. Ahmad’s family owns olive groves in the West Bank, producing fresh olive oil that is shipped to the U.S. every year. “It’s just a Palestinian’s addiction,” he said, referring to the homemade olive oil they enjoy during meals at home.

Inside the pizzeria, visitors occasionally bring small tokens of support—handmade bracelets, paintings, or other gifts related to Gaza. These gestures reinforce the restaurant’s mission: connecting people through culture, empathy, and shared humanity.

The menu is a thoughtful blend of traditional Palestinian flavors and familiar American favorites. Dishes like za’atar pizza and za’atar knots introduce customers to the distinct taste of Palestinian olive oil, reflecting Ahmad’s careful balance of authenticity and accessibility.

Community Support and Impact

Since opening, The Olive Branch Pizzeria has received overwhelming support from Philadelphia residents. “The community has really opened their arms to us,” Ahmad said. Patrons of all backgrounds share empathy and solidarity, making the city feel like a home away from home.

“You get a touch of empathy from them, and it makes you feel like people do see the struggle we’re going through,” he said. “People are aware of what’s happening, and the lives lost aren’t for nothing.”

Through food, family, and heritage, The Olive Branch Pizzeria is more than a restaurant—it’s a bridge between cultures, a place of community, and a living tribute to Palestine’s resilience.