Generation Bar, Formerly ‘Putin Pub,’ Closes in Jerusalem After More Than 20 Years

Generation Bar in Jerusalem has officially closed its doors, marking the end of a 20-year era. The venue originally opened in the Russian Compound district under the moniker “Putin Pub.” At the time, the name was chosen as a bold marketing strategy designed to attract Russian-speaking immigrants, students, and tourists. The bar later relocated to the heart of the capital on Jaffa Street, situated directly across from City Hall.

In the spring of 2022, following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the owners made a principled decision to rebrand. They dropped the controversial signage and renamed the pub “Generation,” publicly stating their refusal to be associated with the geopolitical events. Despite the rebrand, many locals continued to use the original name out of habit. While historically linked to immigrants from the former Soviet Union, the bar had practically evolved into a bustling hub for secular young adults, students, and tourists from diverse backgrounds.

The Jaffa Street pub stood as a stronghold of liberal Jerusalem, notably remaining open on Fridays and through Shabbat. On its final night, the bar drew a large crowd of loyal patrons who gathered close to midnight to bid farewell to the staff and share memories of the venue. The future of the commercial space remains uncertain as it transitions to new ownership, though regulars are hopeful that the new proprietors will maintain its secular status and weekend operating hours.

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