After having visiting Tel Aviv a couple of times now, I can honestly say that this city has some of the BEST restaurants and food spots I’ve experienced. Top that with sunny weather, amazing beaches, interesting culture…and don’t even get me started on the hummus! Well, let’s just that Tel Aviv is one of my favorite cities in the world. Read on for my recommendations on the best places to eat (and a few other random tips thrown in) in Tel Aviv!
Like to eat? You might also be interested in this blog post: A Foodie’s Weekend Guide to Emilia Romagna
Where to eat breakfast in Tel Aviv
Abu Hassan
What can I say about Abu Hassan that hasn’t already been said? It’s one of the oldest and certainly the most famous hummus joint in Israel. I thought I knew what hummus tasted like…and then I had Abu Hassan. No one knows the secret recipe, but it’s the perfect blend of creaminess, lemony and garlicky tang, and spice.
Location: Ha-Dolfin St | What to get: The real gem at Abu Hassan’s is the Mussabeha that is paired with the hummus. Ask for meshuleshet (“Triplet”).
Bell Boy Bar
Bell Boy Bar is the creme-de-la-creme of brunch with its fun prix fixe offering that comes with a main course, several small dishes, and a cocktail. And every dish is turned into a theatrical performance too (I’m talking flame, flowers, and flying butterflies around the table). It’s not easy to get in (reservations required) as the restaurant also serves as one of the largest bars in the city.
Location: מלון, Berdyczewski St 1 | What to get: Steak and eggs
Bucke Cafe
This quirky little neighborhood cafe is a hidden gem! The majority of the people being served in Bucke Cafe are regulars/locals. I’m not even sure how we stumbled on this place, but I’m so glad we did. Serves top-notch coffee and healthy Mediterranean-style breakfast offerings.
Location: 91 Ahad Ha’Am Street | What to get: The breakfast platter. Maybe a cookie too.
TIP: If you still have room after breakfast, check out Carmel Market. This is Tel Aviv’s largest open-air market and is famed for its fresh produce, assortment of spices, and baked goods. You’ll also see several stalls selling affordable clothing, toys, electronics, and beauty products. Even if you aren’t hungry, it’s a great place for mingling in the crowds, learning about the local delicacies, and people-watching!
Where to eat lunch in Tel Aviv
Miznon
You might’ve already heard of Miznon – it’s a chain restaurant by celebrity Chef Eyal Shani with branches in cities like New York and Paris. The first branch was opened in Tel Aviv in 2011 and is still the best. The menu is pretty simple – think fluffy pitas with grilled meat. And unlimited tahini!
Location: Shlomo Ibn Gabirol St 23 | What to get: A stuffed pita and a baked cauliflower (drench that thing with tahini!).
The Old Man and the Sea
Loved by both locals and tourists alike, the Old Man and the Sea is the perfect place to hang out on a sunny afternoon. As soon as you are seated (you may have to queue, but don’t worry, they move fast!), you’re immediately served a selection of mezze, warm pita, and fresh squeezed lemonade. And the best part? Unlimited refills!
Location: Retzif HaAliya HaShniya St 101 | What to get: With it’s prime location along the fishing harbor, it’s best to order seafood as your main course.
TIP: The Old Man and the Sea is located in the Jaffa fishing harbor. A popular spot on the weekends, make sure to take time to enjoy the seaside views and stroll through this ancient port city.
Jasmino
This no-frills hole-in-the-wall pita joint only has 5 seats and is crowded ALL THE TIME. Jasmino is usually open from 11:30am to 2:00am, but are closed on Fridays and Saturdays. You can choose from 1 of 4 pita choices – kebab, chicken, veal heart, or sausage. Make sure to get the works on top – tahini, tomato, cucumber, cabbage, onion, hot pepper and amba sauce.
Location: Allenby St 99 | What to get: My favorite is the classic kebab. If you like a bit of heat like I do, ask for the spicy version!
TIP: Burn off those calories by taking a stroll along the beach. With over 13 different beaches and a wonderful beachside promenade connecting most of them, it’s a great place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy the sunshine (or sunset over the water). If you don’t feel like walking, there are plenty of bikes or e-scooters for rent available.
Where to eat dinner in Tel Aviv
Port Sa’id
Another genius food space and offering by Chef Eyal Shani. My husband and I flew back to Tel Aviv JUST so that we could eat at Port Sa’id again (it’s THAT good). The hipster atmosphere, the simple and always-changing menu, the buzzy vibe – all of it is amazing and seriously screams Tel Aviv! There’s almost always a wait (no reservations) but worth it.
Location: Har Sinai St 5 | What to get: The eggplant. The sweet potatoes. And the French toast.
Cafe Pua
With quirky and cozy decor (think colorful rugs, antique furniture, hanging plants), and a wonderful al fresco set-up, Cafe Pua is a neighborhood dining institution in Jaffa. As an ode to it’s location in the heart of the Jaffa Flea Market, all of the furniture is also available for sale at Cafe Pua!
Location: Rabbi Yohanan St 8 | What to get: The curried pumpkin dumplings and the Mansef (minced meat with rice)
TIP: The ancient port city of Jaffa is very up-and-coming and features a variety of hip bars, restaurants, independent coffee shops, and small boutiques. It’s also home to the world-famous Flea Market. Definitely a must-visit while in Tel Aviv!
Onza
Ottoman and Turkish cuisine with a twist. Onza is also located in the bustling heart of the Jaffa Flea Market. Go here for a fun nighttime atmosphere!
Location: Rabbi Hanina 3 | What to get: Try to visit on a Sunday for their ‘Turkish Night’
Santa Katarina
Located behind the Great Synagogue (and also next to Port S’aid), Santa Katarina offers a fusion menu offering inspired by Israeli and European cuisine. It’s a great spot for a romantic and intimate dinner…and an easy back-up option if the wait at Port S’aid is too long!
Location: 2 Har Sinai Street | What to get: The Lahmajoun is an Israeli-style pizza (delicious, doughy, and topped with lamb kebab and greens)
Where to eat dessert in Tel Aviv
Anita’s Gelato and Yogurt
With over 150 different gelato flavors, Anita’s is a dessert lovers dream! It’s been voted ‘best ice cream in Tel Aviv’ multiple times, and for good reason. I’m not ashamed to say that we had Anita’s twice a day the last time we visited Tel Aviv.
Location: שבזי פינת, Pines St 40 | What to get: Anything with pretzel cream.
TIP: Anita’s is located in the charming neighborhood Nede Tzedek. Take your ice cream to go and stroll around the area – there are lots of boutique shops, street art, and beautiful homes to admire!
Need help planning a trip to Tel Aviv or have a question? Leave me a comment below!
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