WHERE WE EAT
in israel
Explore Israel:
From Tel Aviv’s barefoot wine bars to a bakery with no name in the hills, these are the spots we go back to, and the ones we tell our friends about. Seasonal menus, street food legends, and everything in between. Always curated, always real.
Tel aviv
Tel Aviv does food the same way it does life: casually exceptional. It’s all natural wine, late-night pita, sun-drenched courtyards, and places that don’t need to advertise. Everything feels spontaneous—and that’s exactly the point.
Our Dinner go-tos
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If there’s one recommendation you take from us, it’s this. A local’s cult-status meat house that’s somehow still under the radar. It’s loud, packed, and unapologetically non-touristy—book weeks in advance or don’t bother. The menu is short and to the point: chicken skewers, house kebab, all cooked over fire and served fast. No plating tricks, no soft lighting—just unbelievable meat, warm pita, and a full stomach. Affordable, authentic, and beloved by those who know. Best kebab you’ll ever have. You’ll be sweating meat for days.
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A spacious, industrial-brick brasserie in Sarona Market with a tight Mediterranean menu. Great for business lunches, dinner with parents, or somewhere in between.
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Contemporary Asian with a Tel Aviv spin—think sashimi, noodle dishes, and Japanese-Taiwanese influence. Clean flavors, minimal aesthetic, and a serious bar.
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Somewhere between a dinner spot and a cocktail bar, A.K.A. is dimly lit and perfectly disheveled. The food leans Mediterranean with a creative twist—roasted cabbage, fish crudo, excellent focaccia. The vibe feels like everyone there has a side project. Order the grilled corn and prepare to have your life changed.
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A Tel Aviv classic that still feels current. Loud music, sidewalk seating, and Shani-style small plates that hit harder than they should—cauliflower, minute steak, tahini everything. No reservations, but that’s half the point. Grab a drink while you wait and pretend you’re not people-watching.
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Slightly upscale, centrally located, and surprisingly unpretentious. Known for its veal schnitzel, but everything feels reliably Tel Aviv.
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Messy, brilliant, slightly chaotic. Eyal Shani’s original wild child does grilled corn in husks, food served on paper, and olive oil poured like wine. Sit at the bar if you can—it’s the best seat for the full Shani performance. Order the green beans - not a choice.
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Lively, welcoming, and surprisingly consistent. This Carmel Market-adjacent spot nails the Tel Aviv balance: generous portions, fresh ingredients, and a laid-back charm that doesn’t feel manufactured. Ask for the specials and stay for dessert.
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A low-key favorite tucked on Dizengoff. Mi Va does clean, confident Asian fusion—crispy rice, seared salmon, coconut noodles—with zero ego. The lighting is warm, the crowd is good, and the whole place feels like it's always at 85% capacity in the best way. No wild surprises, just a dinner that always hits.
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A market-to-table gem with a cult following. The menu changes daily and is scribbled on a wine-stained chalkboard—raw fish, sour cherries, offal, handmade pasta, whatever just came in from the shuk. Tables spill into the street, waiters pour like they know you, and everything feels spontaneous but razor-sharp. Pricey, chaotic, and completely unforgettable.
Street Food
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A tiny and unassuming counter serving Yemenite soul food with street-style attitude. Located on the outskirts of the shuk, think slow-cooked meats, hand-pulled laffa, fried onions, and pickles stacked high. Incredible pita and even better chicken hearts (trust us).
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This tiny, always-packed spot near Carmel Market serves some of the best sabich in the country. Fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, amba, tahini, salad—all layered inside fluffy Iraqi pita. Messy, rich, and weirdly perfect even in the heat.
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Lines out the door at almost any hour, and yes, it’s worth it. Whether you go shawarma or falafel, the standout is the pita: warm, pillowy, and overstuffed. Get it with everything—pickles, red cabbage, tahini, mango sauce—and grab a few of the hot, oily falafel balls they pass out while you wait.
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One of the only places doing Yemenite jachnun and malawach all day, every day. The jachnun is slow-cooked and slightly sweet, served with crushed tomato and hard-boiled egg. Not light, not fancy, but comforting and different if you’ve never tried it. Vegan by default.
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Yes, it's on every list, but there’s a reason. Eyal Shani’s take on pita is theatrical but grounded—slow-cooked beef, roasted cauliflower, even a whole baby kebab plate inside warm bread. Tel Aviv’s fast food, but with herbs and olive oil instead of grease.
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A true local go-to—tiny, no branding, no fuss. Their sabich is warm and messy in the best way, and the pita somehow doesn’t fall apart halfway through. They’ve got homemade sauces and pickles that taste like someone’s mom made them that morning.
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A beloved chain, but feels like a family-run shop. Great for fresh, warm hummus with mushroom, shakshuka, or masabacha toppings. Usually packed with soldiers, students, and construction guys—all ordering with purpose. Ask for a hard-boiled egg on the side and a warm pita to wipe the bowl clean.
Go all out
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Tel Aviv’s most infamous dinner party. Chef Eyal Shani turns it’s second seating of the night into full-blown theater—starting with roasted artichokes and ending with diners dancing on tables, waving linen napkins to Hebrew ballads. It’s loud, over-the-top, and designed to feel like a wedding you weren’t invited to but crashed anyway. Come hungry, come late, and don’t wear heels you can’t stand on furniture in.
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Chef Raz Rahav’s 19-seat counter restaurant is Tel Aviv’s most obsessive culinary experience—and proudly so. The entire tasting menu (usually 15–20 courses) is seasonal, experimental, and presented by the chefs themselves, who also serve as your waiters. The open kitchen design makes the whole evening feel immersive, like you're part of the process. Reservations open monthly and disappear fast.
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Shila doesn’t whisper luxury—it shouts it across a packed dining room. This seafood brasserie is the go-to for Tel Aviv locals who want oysters, champagne, and beef carpaccio on a weeknight. It’s crowded, glossy, and somehow always delivers. Pro tip: sit at the bar if you’re a two-top, and dress like you’re seeing someone you used to date.
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Modern Israeli with polish and soul. Chef Yossi Shitrit’s kitchen turns local ingredients into artful plates—seafood carpaccio, hand-rolled pasta, and wild herbs from the north. The space is dim, moody, and quietly upscale without trying too hard. Great for a date night or a low-key celebration when you want to feel spoiled but not stiff. Bonus: their pre-dessert palate cleansers are oddly addictive.
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A glossy, Southeast Asia–inspired tasting experience housed in one of Tel Aviv’s sleekest dining rooms. The menu pulls from Thailand, Vietnam, India, and China—filtered through a fine-dining Israeli lens. Dishes come fast and precise: dim sum, sashimi, curried meats, all plated with serious intent. It’s less “intimate birthday dinner,” more client dinner that accidentally slaps. Go tasting menu if you’re not in the mood to decide.
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A hidden gem in Neve Tzedek that’s somehow still flying just under the radar. Popina leans French in technique, Mediterranean in soul, and precise in every detail. Sit in the garden courtyard, order the tasting menu, and expect foie gras with pomegranate, pasta made in-house, and sauces that you’ll want to drink. Refined without being stiff.
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Yes, it’s really called a. A blind tasting menu behind a hidden entrance, where the courses come fast, precise, and intentionally mysterious. The design is futuristic, the music is moody, and the kitchen’s technique leans European with a Tel Aviv wink. It’s quiet, expensive, and cool as hell.
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Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in The Drisco Hotel, George & John serves modern Israeli cuisine with Persian roots. Think wild herbs, seafood from Acre, and slow-roasted meats—each dish elegant but grounded. The tasting menu is thoughtful without being precious. Service is seamless, the plating is quiet art, and it’s one of the few fine dining spots where you won’t leave hungry.
Best Desserts
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Run by women and absolutely slammed on weekends. The knafeh is layered to order—crispy kataifi pastry, stretchy cheese, and orange blossom syrup. Get it warm, with pistachios on top. Sweet but balanced. If you know, you know.
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Always a scene, but worth it. Wide selection, playful flavors, and the texture is rich without feeling greasy. Their sorbets are sharp and intense, and you can mix flavors in one cone. The peanut butter pretzel is oddly addictive.
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A Tel Aviv institution. Malabi is a Middle Eastern milk pudding, and theirs is sweet, floral, and topped with rosewater syrup, coconut, and peanuts. You can get it with Arak too, if you're chaotic like that.
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Quietly one of the best bakeries in the city. You’ll want to try everything in the case—especially the seasonal galettes, pistachio croissants, and chocolate tahini babka. They lean rustic but refined, and the quality is always there. Not flashy, just perfect.
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You wouldn’t expect a bakery this dialed-in to be hiding behind one of Tel Aviv’s most iconic Italian restaurants, but here we are. The pistachio bomboloni is elite. If they have the olive oil cake or chocolate ganache tart, get both.
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A generational Palestinian bakery tucked into the backstreets of Jaffa. Come for the baklava, stay for the sheer variety—cashew, walnut, pistachio, kanafeh hybrids, and delicate semolina pastries stacked in silver trays. Everything’s made on site, often still warm, and wrapped with care. Not flashy, just flawless.
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This institution has been feeding locals for over a century. Bourekas, sambusak, sweet breads, and baklava served straight from the oven and into your hands—ideally late at night. The pistachio baklava is sticky and golden with just the right crunch, and their sesame bread is a Tel Aviv rite of passage.
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A benchmark bakery. From flakey cheese borekas to world-class chocolate rugelach, Lehamim is consistent, generous, and always busy. Their cinnamon rolls are the quiet star—soft, swirled, and fragrant with real spice, not just sugar. Gluten-free options are top tier too, without compromise.
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Custom, oven-fresh cookies made to order. Warm, gooey, and insanely creative cookies that are more satisfying than most life decisions. The vibe is chaotic, the line can be long, but it’s always worth it.
Where We Wake Up
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A long-standing favorite for Tel Aviv locals and internationals alike. Known for their house-made bagels, banana bread, and generous veggie-packed bowls. It feels like a Brooklyn cafe, and there’s a calm, lived-in feel to the place. Great for vegans, gluten free, healthy and hangover options. Order at the counter, find a shady spot on the patio, and settle in.
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A small, understated café with two locations and consistently excellent coffee, matcha, and house-made pastries. The almond croissant and chocolate chip tahini cookie are standouts, and there are always a few gluten-free treats behind the counter. One of the few places where you can order an American style egg sandwich. Small tables inside and out, quiet enough to read, always someone lingering with a laptop.
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Tucked behind busy streets, Bucke serves generous brunch trays of bread, labneh, tahini, eggs, and roasted vegetables—Tel Aviv’s answer to the breakfast board. Vegetarian-friendly, fresh, and reliable. Most tables are outside beneath vines and umbrellas. Expect a wait on weekends, or come during the week for a slower pace.
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This family-run deli is perfect for breakfast on the go. Pita sandwiches are made to order, with fillings like egg salad, preserved lemon, feta, or roasted veg. It’s small and always busy, but service is fast. No seating—grab a sandwich and take it to the market or beach.
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A plant-based café with a breezy terrace and an expansive menu. Bowls, smoothies, tofu-based dishes, and raw desserts—all gluten free or vegan friendly. Staff is helpful, the vibe is relaxed, and it’s easy to spend a few hours without realizing it. Particularly peaceful on weekday mornings.
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Located on the edge of Dizengoff Square, Nahat serves specialty coffee and a quiet lineup of pastries, quiches, and breakfast plates. It’s not trendy, but it’s thoughtful—perfect for a solo morning, a light meeting, or a calm catch-up. Great espresso, clean ingredients, and a few gluten-free and vegetarian options.
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One of the best places in the city for shakshuka, with options that go far beyond the classic—think eggplant, feta, spinach, and spicy zhug variations. Family-run, very casual, and tucked into a quiet street near Carmel Market. Come hungry and order the Yemenite flatbread on the side.
The night starts here
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Still one of Tel Aviv’s most magnetic spots. Music, cocktails, people watching—all orbiting a menu that surprises you with how good it is. Sit outside in the courtyard or snag a back table once the DJ sets up. Mediterranean-Asian leaning plates meant to be shared. But don’t share the beef tartare—it’s too good to be shared.
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Set underground in a beautifully restored Templar tunnel, this spot feels dramatic from the moment you walk in. Over 1,000 bottles of whiskey line the walls, but the food holds its own—especially the short ribs and bone marrow. Come for the vibe, stay for the mashed potatoes.
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An understated spot next to OCD, one of Tel Aviv’s most iconic restaurants. The wine list leans natural, the crowd leans in-the-know, and the food is full of quiet flexes—charred leeks, house-made focaccia, wild fish crudo. The butter alone is worth sitting down for.
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This Rothschild spot nails the cocktail-first energy without phoning it in on food. Great raw dishes, better eggplant, and a shockingly good truffle toast. Sit inside for the full speakeasy vibe or grab the street-facing tables and people-watch between bites.
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Dim lights, deep booths, and DJs that don’t overdo it. The menu’s short—burger, steak, tuna tartare—but sharp, and everything’s plated like someone actually cares. Start with a cocktail, end up dancing, or just stay at your table all night and pretend you had plans.
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A maximalist fever dream with dark red velvet, antique bar tools, and cocktails that come in teapots or smoking domes. The food’s playful but genuinely good—stuffed mushrooms, short rib cigars, creative veg. Skip the gimmicks and focus on the actual menu. Late-night energy in the best way.
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Tucked behind the more established Dalida restaurant, this bar version is moodier, messier, and sometimes more fun. They keep the hits from the kitchen—lamb, eggplant, seafood crudo—and the wine list is natural-heavy without being obnoxious. Usually a DJ by 10.
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Radio station meets open-air courtyard meets pizza spot. Feels like the unofficial start (or middle) of every night out in Tel Aviv. The pizza is genuinely good, the crowd is always rotating, and there’s usually a set or something happening. Order a slice, get a drink, and hover until a table opens.
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For something looser: Ozen is a music venue/bar that’s long been a local favorite, but next door’s HaPizza slings chewy, Neapolitan-style pies with upscale toppings. Grab dinner before or after the set. Unexpectedly solid for a night that started with no plan.
JERUSALEm
Our Dinner go-tos
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The one that put Jerusalem dining on the global map. A loud, theatrical, open-kitchen kind of place where chefs shout orders, the music gets turned up mid-service, and you might be handed a shot of arak before dessert. But beneath the chaos is real talent—slow-braised beef cheek, polenta in a glass, seasonal veggie plates, and a wine list full of gems. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you want a night that feels like a party and a great meal, this is it. Book way ahead.
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Warm lighting, Kurdish roots, and portions that could feed three. Kubeh with beetroot broth, stuffed vine leaves, grilled meats—this is Jerusalem comfort food done with quiet confidence. Sit on the patio when the weather’s good and settle in with their house wine. It’s casual but feels like a real dinner. You’re not rushing out.
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For something more refined but still relaxed. Local fish, handmade pasta, seasonal produce—elevated but unpretentious. The roasted cauliflower and lamb chops are signatures, and the cocktails are actually good (which is rare in this city). It’s buzzy, grown-up, and ideal for a Wednesday when you want a real meal and a real tablecloth.
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Come early, stay long. Azura’s stews and stuffed veggies are legendary, and on a weekday night, you’ll get more locals than tourists. The sofrito, kubeh, and eggplant with minced meat are mainstays. Sit outside and let the market wind down around you. No frills, just deeply comforting food that tastes like someone’s grandmother made it.
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Quietly one of the best dining rooms in the country. Mona feels grown-up in the best way—thoughtful plating, warm lighting, sharp service, and a wine list you’ll want to spend time with. Their sea bass crudo, house bread, and oxtail tortellini all hold their own. It’s romantic, but not overly so. Sophisticated, but not try-hard.
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A modern kosher spot that actually delivers. Run by chefs with real edge, the menu balances sharp flavors with solid technique—spicy tuna bruschetta, bone marrow, slow-cooked meats, and tons of grilled veg. Music’s loud, service is fast, and it’s perfect for a weekday crew dinner when you want to split everything.
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Smaller, sexier, and slightly more low-key. It’s the kind of place where you sit down for a glass of wine and end up staying for six plates. Grilled calamari, beef tartare, zucchini flowers, and other small plates served fast and hot. Still part of the Machneyuda group, but less theatrical—more neighborhood wine bar meets Mediterranean bistro.
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Sort of Jacko’s older cousin. Kosher, modern Israeli plates with a Tel Aviv edge—crisp fish tartare, smoked eggplant, and beef dishes done right. Bonus: the space is surprisingly sleek for Jerusalem. Feels buzzy but grown-up.
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One of the more mainstream classics, but still worth it midweek. Their mushroom risotto, steaks, and Middle Eastern starters are dependable, and the wine list is strong. The vibe is more international than local, but the quality’s there. Great for groups or dinner with visiting family when you want something “nice” but not boring.
Go all out
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Chef Moshe Basson’s ode to biblical cuisine. It sounds gimmicky, but it’s not—it’s deeply thoughtful. Fig-stuffed chicken, freekeh risotto, lamb with date honey. Herbs are foraged. The vibe is calm and considered, and the chef often comes out to talk to you. If you want something meaningful without sacrificing flavor, this is a sleeper hit. Sit outside and enjoy the views of dimly lit limestone alleys.
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A quiet stunner. Upscale, relaxed, with a subtle Mediterranean-Asian influence. The seafood risotto, tenderloin skewers, and freshly baked focaccia are standouts. Great lighting, great cocktails, and just the right amount of buzz. It feels expensive, but still warm and intimate.
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The view alone is worth it. Elevated kosher dining with a polished vibe—grilled meats, fish carpaccio, towers of colorful veg. Come for sunset and stay for dessert. You’re paying for the view, but the kitchen holds its own.
Where We Wake Up
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An institution. Open since 1967 and still somehow getting better. Their eggs benedict on brioche, challah French toast, and legendary pastries (the croissant-cannoli hybrid? Unreal) make it the move when you want classic with a touch of Paris. Expect a wait. Worth every second. Open on Shabbat.
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Part bookshop, part café, all charm. Come for the shakshuka, stay for the quiet morning sun filtering through stone walls. Great vegetarian options, cozy seating, and that romantic, slightly academic Jerusalem vibe. Locals know to bring a novel and linger.
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Reliable, central, and very brunch-forward. You’ll see everything from hearty breakfasts to vegan salads to kids coloring at the table. This is where people go when they don’t want to think too hard but still want great eggs, good coffee, and gluten-free bread on request.
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Tucked inside a residential pocket of Nachlaot, this place is quiet, minimalist, and effortlessly cool. Sourdough toast with labneh, pesto eggs, filter coffee done properly. If you want Tel Aviv vibes without the chaos, this is your place.
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Jerusalem’s bakery game is no joke, and Haba is one of the best. Grab a cheese-stuffed bureka, a few fresh pastries, and some strong coffee, then eat it on a crate outside like a local. Cheap, delicious, and full of energy.
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If you're looking for real third-wave coffee, strong Wi-Fi, and minimalist Scandinavian energy, this is it. Pour-overs, vegan pastries, and almond croissants that surprise you. Not brunch per se, but the move if you want to work and snack all morning.
Street Food
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Israeli-Mexican fusion that doesn’t feel like a gimmick. Pulled beef with harissa, quesadillas layered with zhoug, and real homemade salsas that go way beyond bottled hot sauce. It’s casual, flavorful, and exactly what you want when you’re craving something different on the go.
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Shamburak — flaky Kurdish-Syrian pastry filled with slow-braised meats, mushrooms, or lamb. Baked fresh in-house and wrapped in butcher paper, it’s the kind of meal that feels like you discovered something. There’s no version that isn’t satisfying.
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For those in the know, this spot hits different on a late Friday night or slow Saturday morning. Jachnun and malawach done right — with grated tomato, hardboiled egg, schug, and just the right amount of oil. It’s Yemenite comfort food in its purest, most delicious form.
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A true local go-to—tiny, no branding, no fuss. Their sabich is warm and messy in the best way, and the pita somehow doesn’t fall apart halfway through. They’ve got homemade sauces and pickles that taste like someone’s mom made them that morning.
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A hidden gem for lovers of Georgian khachapuri. The bread is warm and crisped at the edges, filled with soft cheese, an egg cracked in the middle, and a pat of butter that melts as you dig in. Simple, filling, and always better than you remember.
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Fresh-baked pitas filled with everything from eggplant and soft-boiled egg to meatballs, lamb, or chicken. They’re generous with the herbs, the tahini is well-balanced, and every bite hits. Friendly staff, no frills, always worth the line.
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A low-key, no-drama hummus stop that’s consistent and loved by locals. Smooth hummus, warm chickpeas, good olive oil, soft pita. Sit at a sidewalk table or take it to go — this is the kind of place that makes simple food feel memorable.
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For classic shawarma, this chain still delivers. The turkey is crisped on the edges, the pita is always hot, and the fries inside actually hold up. Their amba isn’t overpowering, and the portions lean generous.
Jerusalem holds its energy closer to the chest. It’s all stone alleys, incense, and tension you can taste. One minute you’re elbow-deep in bourekas at Machane Yehuda, the next you’re watching the sun hit the Dome of the Rock in complete silence. The food here is slow-cooked, spice-heavy, and deeply personal. This is a place where tradition trumps trend.
Best Desserts
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Yes, it’s famous. Yes, it’s worth the hype. The rugelach are sweet, sticky, and rich with chocolate or cinnamon. Buy them warm, eat one immediately, and ignore anyone who says they’re overrated.
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Artisanal without being annoying. Known for flavors like saffron, basil lemon, halva, and date. Texture is creamy, portions are fair, and the vibe is cool and low-key. A smart stop after dinner nearby.
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This is the East Jerusalem spot — and some locals swear it’s better. The kanafeh is looser and gooier, the baklava slightly less sweet. Grab it fresh out of the tray and eat it standing with a plastic fork. Old-school, always busy, and very much part of the rhythm of the city.
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Feels more Paris than Jerusalem. This historic family-run café makes flaky mille-feuille, pistachio eclairs, lemon tarts, and some of the best croissants in the country. The place fills up with locals on a Friday morning — everyone with cappuccinos and cake. Sit outside if you can.
open on shabbat
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One of the only upscale spots that stays open all Shabbat, and it’s not phoning it in. Mediterranean dishes with depth — seafood risotto, handmade pastas, seared duck breast — served alongside a serious wine list. Sit inside or on the heated patio and pretend the city isn’t asleep.
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A quiet, refined spot with one of the best views in the city. Go for fish with herb tahini, roasted lamb, or the Jerusalem artichoke polenta. Kosher, elegant, and feels like a reward after a long, peaceful walk.
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Stylish, local, and slightly under the radar. Grilled meats, market vegetables, rich sauces, and killer bread to mop it all up. Candlelight and Jerusalem stone don’t hurt either.
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Casual but delivers. Middle Eastern–Italian crossover with fresh-baked focaccia, grilled meats, loaded salads, and all the carbs you want on a Saturday. Unpretentious, central, and reliably open.
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Not brunch, not lunch — but the best coffee in Jerusalem, and the kind of almond croissant that makes a Saturday. Industrial-chic vibe, Tel Aviv energy, and an actual place to hang when nothing else is moving.
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Big space, classic Italian menu, and always open on Shabbat. Gnocchi, wood-fired pizzas, risottos — not revolutionary, but really well-executed. A go-to for families, couples, and anyone craving something cozy that isn’t falafel.
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A hidden gem if you want something a little off-script. Beef stews, khinkali dumplings, cheese-stuffed breads, grilled lamb — all in a warm, dimly-lit space that feels like a secret. Open on Shabbat and never boring.
Eilat
More barefoot than buttoned-up, Eilat’s food scene is casual, sun-soaked, and all about the setting. Think grilled fish, cold drinks, and sunset views over the Red Sea. It’s not the most refined city for dining, but when it’s good, it’s exactly what you want after a long, hot day. Laid-back, local, and always better with sand in your shoes.
Our Dinner go-tos
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Okay, it’s a beach bar by day — but sometimes they host low-key chef takeovers, vegan dinners, or music + mezze nights that are worth checking their schedule for. If it’s happening, go. Or, head there for a random dinner and watch the sunset. Feels spontaneous, sandy, and oddly magical when it clicks. Not to mention, we ate the best cauliflower of our lives here.
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Casual Italian with good pasta for a beach town. The truffle gnocchi, beef carpaccio, and even the Caesar salad are all done with care. Good service, good wine list, and one of the more consistent options in the city center.
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Floating on the water with a soft 80s yacht-club energy, this place serves upscale classics with a view. The sushi isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s solid. Come for the setting and the seafood linguine, not the scene.
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Old-school, a little nostalgic, but still delivers. Expect catch-of-the-day platters, buttery shrimp pasta, and slightly kitsch decor that somehow works. It’s one of those places where people come back year after year — and they should.
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Minimalist space, sharp menu, serious execution. Whale does refined seafood without being precious — think grilled calamari, burrata with roasted beetroot, or sea bass crudo with citrus. The crowd skews Tel Aviv weekender meets in-the-know local.
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Right off the promenade, Rak Dagim serves exactly what it promises: fresh fish, done right. Their whole grilled sea bream is a staple, the salads come out fast and overflowing, and the vibe is laid-back but not lazy. Great with a glass of white and a sea breeze.
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Right at the edge of the sand with a view of the Egyptian border and the occasional scuba group walking past. It’s super casual, but the grilled meats, whole fish, and mezze platters come out fast and well-seasoned. Great for an early dinner that turns into lounging. Order a bottle, get barefoot, and don’t rush it.
Go all out
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If Italian counts as fine dining for the night, this is the most elegant version in town. Beef fillet carpaccio, truffle risotto, sea bass over polenta. The room is well-dressed, the dishes are thoughtful, and it’s beloved by weekending Tel Avivians.
Where We Wake Up
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An Eilat favorite that somehow manages to feel both local and a little Tel Avivian. The space is cozy but bright, with creative breakfast platters, good sourdough, proper shakshuka, and strong coffee. Staff is friendly, the pace is slow, and the vibe is relaxed in a way that still feels intentional. Come late, linger longer.
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Beachfront, laid-back, and an overall solid option. Not the best in the city, not the worst. Great for a classic Israeli breakfast — eggs your way, flaky burekas, bread baskets, and an excellent chopped salad. Sit outside, order a fresh juice, and don’t rush.
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Stylish little corner spot inside the hotel but open to the public. Good pastries, beautiful flat whites, and the air-conditioning actually works. A calmer alternative to the main drag cafes. Order a croissant and park it for an hour.
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More off-the-beaten path — but worth the detour. This is where locals grab takeaway sandwiches, iced coffees, and flaky pastries before heading to work (or the beach). Surprisingly good baked goods for an industrial strip café.
Street Food
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You’ll smell it before you see it. Classic Israeli shawarma spot: lamb or turkey carved right off the spit, loaded with fries, pickles, and tangy sauces, all wrapped in a laffa or stuffed in a pita. No fuss, always satisfying, and open late enough to save your night.
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If you’re lucky enough to catch it: thin slices of fried eggplant, boiled egg, amba, tahini, Israeli salad, and pickles — all in a warm pita that somehow holds together. Messy in the best way. Track it down.
Best Desserts
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Local dairy, beachside location, and a rotation of handmade flavors that stay refreshingly simple. Pistachio, vanilla, date-honey — nothing artificial. Grab a cone.
The night starts here
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Eilat’s go-to live music bar. It’s small, it’s loud, and it’s usually packed with a mix of off-duty dive instructors and people who don’t need to be up early. Come for the cheap beers, shot specials, and the chance to belt something out on open mic night. Is it chic? No. But it’s a scene.
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A proper party spot. Starts slow, ends sweaty. DJs, dance floor, beer towers, tequila trays — and a lot of people in linen who didn’t plan to go out but somehow closed the place down. It’s hotel-adjacent but not cringe, and there’s usually a solid mix of ages and energy.
UP NORTH
Our Dinner go-tos
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A true destination restaurant. Set in a 19th-century stone building near the Jordan River, Rutenberg is all about locally sourced ingredients and wood-fired cooking. The vibe is quietly romantic, and the menu shifts with the seasons — expect wild herbs, pasture-raised meats, and wine pairings that actually make sense. For food lovers who want to slow down.
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Legendary for a reason. Fresh seafood straight from the harbor, a shockingly affordable tasting menu, and a quiet elegance that doesn’t try too hard. Order the sashimi trio, the seafood soup, and whatever Uri recommends that day. Even post-war, the place is packed — make a resy early.
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Right on the water with a creative, seafood-forward Mediterranean menu and one of the best wine lists in the region. Think octopus carpaccio, grilled fish, tahini sauces reimagined, and desserts you won’t skip. A more modern, buzzy counterpoint to Uri Buri — come for the food, stay for the view.
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Druze food made with precision and warmth. Labneh, flatbreads, lamb kebabs, stuffed vegetables, spiced rice — everything is seasoned and cooked like someone’s grandmother is watching. Casual but deeply satisfying. Also vegetarian-friendly.
Go all out
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Yes, it’s on the Go-To list too — but it belongs here as well. Rutenberg is the north’s best-kept fine dining secret. Locally foraged herbs, slow-cooked meats, aged cheeses, and a wine list that pulls exclusively from small Israeli vineyards. The tasting menu is serious, but never pretentious. Sit on the terrace at sunset and let them decide what you eat. It’s that kind of place.
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Item descriptionItalian fine dining with shockingly good ingredients and a real sense of occasion. Think handmade gnocchi, lamb chops with gremolata, and burrata flown in weekly. Wine cellar is extensive, service is dialed in, and it’s one of the few places up north where you can dress up and not feel out of place.
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Set in the legendary Mitzpe Hayamim hotel, Muscat is a slow-food sanctuary. Everything they serve is either grown on their biodynamic farm or sourced from within a short radius — eggs, herbs, produce, even the cheeses. The space is luxe without being flashy, and the view of the Galilee hills is hypnotic. Not trendy, but deeply refined — like staying at a countryside spa that happens to cook Michelin-level food.
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A chic surprise in a kibbutz setting. 1910 is quietly upscale: exposed brick, a great open kitchen, and a menu rooted in Mediterranean comfort food with high-end flourishes — seafood risottos, duck breast with fruit reductions, hand-rolled pastas. The prices are on par with Tel Aviv’s fanciest, but the ambience is calmer, more grounded. Perfect for food lovers who want their luxury without the scene.
Where We Wake Up
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Yes, it’s a chain. But this particular Landwer has prime location, good espresso, and unbeatable views of the Mediterranean. The breakfast is generous, and the vibe is very "everyone on vacation but you don’t hate it.” Not our usual scene, but we’d be lying if we said we don’t go.
Street Food
This is where Israel exhales. Think stone villages, vineyard-covered hills, and restaurants without menus. The food leans rustic, seasonal, and deeply local — less about flash, more about flavor. Meals stretch long, wine pours freely, and everything tastes better after a road trip or a swim in the Kinneret. Quiet magic, every time.
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This is the falafel. Period. Run by the same family for generations, and they don’t miss. Fresh-out-the-oil falafel balls, smooth-as-silk hummus, and pickles that bite back. Line out the door, no frills, cash only, and worth every minute.
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Come early or forget about it. Hummus Said is legendary for its cloudlike hummus, warm pita, and extra generous drizzle of tahini. It’s loud, packed, and absolutely perfect. Order the mashawsha and thank us later.
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Very local, very no-nonsense. Beef shawarma, shaved thick and full of flavor, stuffed into laffa or pita with just the right balance of char, fat, and sauce. The kind of place where the staff barely speaks and the regulars come twice a week.
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Okay, technically not street food in the classic sense, but the kebabs here are a cultural experience. Super casual, super packed, and deeply flavorful. Grilled meats, fresh salads, and addictive flatbreads baked right in front of you.
Best Desserts
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Yep, the Uri Buri has a little ice cream shop tucked next to the restaurant — and it slaps. Unexpected flavors like saffron-pistachio, cardamom-rose, and perfect milk chocolate. Silky, not too sweet, and deeply intentional. One of those “just have a bite” places where you’ll leave with two cones and a pint to go.
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This pastry shop is old-school in the very best way. Layered cakes, buttery croissants, and sweet cheese bourekas that are flaky enough to make you emotional. Get a box, mix and match, and eat it in the car like everyone else.
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Served from carts, windows, and tiny storefronts — usually topped with rosewater syrup, coconut, and bright pink crushed peanuts. Ask around, follow the locals, and try more than one. No branding, no website — just perfect malabi in plastic cups.
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A little French moment in wine country. Fruit tarts, tiny éclairs, dark chocolate mousse that feels like silk. Great espresso, nice service, and the kind of pastries you photograph before inhaling.
The night starts here
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A hidden neighborhood gem with a serious cocktail program and an even more serious bar staff. Small space, candlelight, vinyl playing in the background — you’ll feel like you found the bar all the cool people in Haifa already knew about. Drinks are balanced, sharp, and seasonal.
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Tishbi is well known, but this wine bar is still underrated. Rustic setting, candlelight, and flights of their best bottles paired with chocolate or cheese. It’s romantic without trying to be. If you're not into sweet reds, tell them upfront — they'll fix you a glass of something sharp and dry.
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Yes, it’s in a hotel, but don’t roll your eyes — this is an actual mood. Think leather armchairs, single malt whiskey, a long wooden bar, and views of the Kinneret. Perfect for a post-dinner nightcap or pretending you're a colonial-era novelist. Occasionally hosts jazz nights.
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Cool, creative, and way more Tel Aviv than you’d expect in Zichron. Killer cocktail menu, natural wine by the glass, and bar food that’s actually good. Sit at the bar and ask what they’re making off-menu. Very “in-the-know” energy without the attitude.
CENTRAL
Our Dinner go-tos
Beyond the buzz of Tel Aviv and the old-world pull of Jerusalem, Central Israel is where things feel effortlessly lived-in. Suburbs with style, seaside towns with serious food scenes, and locals who know exactly where to go.
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A brasserie-style classic where white tablecloths meet grilled sea bass and killer martinis. The menu skews French-Mediterranean and leans timeless — it’s the kind of place that’s never empty and never off.
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Feels like you’ve left the country — in the best way. A laid-back yet elegant spot serving bistro-style dishes and sushi with local flair. Reliable, warm, and always a good idea. Don’t skip the daily specials.
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For when only steak will do. A carnivore haven with perfectly charred cuts, crisp fries, and serious sauces. Casual enough for a Tuesday, solid enough for a Friday. No gimmicks — just great meat, done right.
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Israeli-Peruvian fusion on the beach. Think tuna tartare with mango, giant hummus bowls, and cocktails that go down too easy. The space is cool, coastal, and pulls a chic crowd. Get a lounge chair, a mojito, and hummus. Prepare to stay the day.
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Vibrant, reliable, and always full — and for good reason. Mezze spreads, grilled fish, warm pita, and music that makes you order another round. It’s Greek with Israeli energy, and there’s something on the menu for everyone.
Go all out
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Right on the water, but not just for the view. Seafood-focused, with Mediterranean finesse and seriously dialed-in plating. The wine list leans international, and the service is sharp without being stiff. Order the squid, octopus, and bread. If you’re feeling bold, get the mixed seafood bowl. Sit outside if the weather’s right — the breeze makes everything taste better.
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An upscale meat-lover’s go-to with Tel Aviv prices and Ramat Gan charm. Perfectly aged steaks, truffle fries, and sauces that feel indulgent but not overdone. Feels like a power dinner but without the Tel Aviv attitude. The crowd is polished, and the meat is the real deal.
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A local spin-off of the famous Tel Aviv butcher-restaurant, this is meat with pedigree. Everything’s butchered in-house, and the chefs treat it with respect. Upscale but still grounded, it’s where you go when you want real food cooked by people who care — and you don’t mind splurging a little.
Where We Wake Up
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This place feels like a secret your cool cousin told you about. Everything is house-made and deeply considered — from the flaky, gooey babka to the pistachio croissants and vegan-friendly salads. Great for takeaway or a lazy, chatty breakfast in the sun.
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A long-standing gem with a killer breakfast spread: salads, dips, eggs, labneh, house-baked breads — the full Israeli affair, done right. Rustic-chic setting, olive trees, and the kind of pacing that makes you forget about your phone. Come early, or expect to wait.Stylish but warm, this spot nails that perfect intersection of European café and Israeli brunch culture. Flavorful sandwiches and salads, even better pastries, and the coffee is strong enough to wake up your week. Bonus: amazing matcha.
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A cozy neighborhood café with a slightly Latin twist and really, really good eggs. Great veggie options, homemade breads, and a morning crowd that knows exactly what they like. A true locals’ spot — if you know, you know.
Street Food
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A humble shop with serious street cred. Perfectly grilled arayes (pita stuffed with spiced ground meat), charred just right and dripping with flavor. Served with tahini and fresh tomato salad — no frills, all flavor.
Best Desserts
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A full-blown chocolate fever dream just off the highway. Yes, it’s a chain, and yes, it’s commercial — but it’s also deliciously over-the-top and secretly amazing for late-night cravings. The chocolate pizza still hits, the syringes of melted chocolate are objectively fun, and the vibe somehow works for families, dates, and sugar-fueled breakdowns.
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A classic French-style bakery doing low-key perfect croissants, tarts, and canelés. The chocolate almond croissant is a must, and their lemon meringue tart has a loyal fanbase. Great for takeaway or a slow coffee-and-sugar sit-down.
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Hidden inside what looks like a sleek, ordinary bakery is a serious pastry program. Mille-feuille, eclairs, and pistachio cream puffs that hold their own against any Parisian café. Come early if you want the good stuff — it sells out fast.
The night starts here
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Cool without trying. Craft cocktails, exposed brick, vinyl nights, and one of the most consistent bar crowds in Herzliya. Bartenders know what they’re doing, the mezcal drinks are tight, and there’s a snack menu for those who forgot dinner. It's where you take someone you want to impress — but not in a flashy way.
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An institution at this point. Locally brewed beers, long tables, and a rowdy-but-friendly energy that makes it feel like a backyard party meets Bavarian beer hall. Great for groups, casual dates, or anyone who likes their IPA with a side of onion rings. Bonus: live music nights bring in legit local talent.
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Craft beer, Israeli wine, and bartenders who love to talk terroir. A neighborhood hangout with serious drinks, rotating taps, and an outdoor space that’s always buzzing. Come early for a seat, stay late for the weird conversations at the bar.
down south
Our Dinner go-tos
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A local legend. Part pub, part kitchen, this is where students, soldiers, and families all converge for burgers, schnitzel, and cold Goldstars. Not fancy, just dependable. Think of it as Mitzpe Ramon’s answer to a neighborhood tavern — warm, loud, and always satisfying.
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Expect simple, flavorful dishes using ingredients grown steps away. A mellow, grounding spot for sunset dinners.
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A meat lover’s haven that delivers exactly what it promises. Grilled entrecôte, juicy burgers, potato wedges galore. Rustic decor with no frills, but the kitchen is serious about quality.
Go all out
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You’re eating inside a goat farm. It’s quiet, chic in a barefoot-linen way, and absolutely unforgettable. Prix fixe menus change with the seasons and everything — from the labaneh to the caramelized onions — is made in-house. Book in advance, stay a while.
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Near Sde Boker, this is another one of those “is this even a restaurant?” moments. A boutique goat cheese farm that does farm dinners on select nights, served with wine from Negev vineyards and impossibly fresh produce. Rustic, yes — but in that $$$$ rural-chic way.
Where We Wake Up
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Real-deal sourdough, flaky pastries, and a cinnamon roll that’s worth the drive. Artisan vibes, relaxed energy, and a communal table that somehow always has room for one more. Vegan and GF options too.
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Tiny café run by kibbutzniks with a rotating menu of egg dishes, strong coffee, and fresh fruit smoothies. Think dusty bookshelves, woven chairs, and someone’s dog under the table. Bliss.
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One of the few spots that opens early and does it right. Local favorite for omelets, croissants, and iced coffee that doesn’t suck. Indoor-outdoor seating, student-heavy crowd, but charming nonetheless.
Street Food
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Usually parked near the visitor center. Creative, affordable vegan dishes that actually taste amazing. Try the sabich bowl or the beetroot burger.
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Where locals go for morning burekas and jachnun. Nothing trendy here — just salty, doughy goodness.
Food here is grounded, generous, and full of soul. From roadside grills to starlit chef’s tables and desert farm cafés, the south serves up meals that feel deeply local and unexpectedly bold. Come hungry — and don’t rush it.
Best Desserts
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Yes, it's closer to the southern tip — but it’s a must-visit. Homemade ice cream, dairy-rich desserts, gluten-free options, vegan-friendly plates, and an ethos that screams chill desert hippie café. Also a great lunch stop. Feels like summer camp meets wellness retreat.
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Every August, this random dairy factory in the middle of the desert hands out free chocolate milk to anyone who shows up — it’s chaotic, niche, and entirely worth the detour. If you time it right, it’s the best sugar rush of the year. Otherwise, head to the factory to enjoy some paid gelato, chocolate milk, and local goodies.
The night starts here
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Long-running bar with live music, a killer jukebox, and bartenders who pour heavy. Think cheap drinks, dim lighting, and a crowd that ranges from 20 to 50 but all want the same thing: a strong gin and tonic and some 90s rock.
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It doubles as a bar in the evenings with good wine, small bites, and a mellow, candlelit crowd. Think conversation over chaos.
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A real locals’ place for craft beer under the stars. The garden setting gives it an easygoing, barefoot-on-gravel vibe, but the tap list is serious — expect local Israeli brews, rotating imports, and some funky seasonal specials. Live DJs on weekends and communal tables that make it weird if you don’t make a new friend.
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Cocktail-forward and candlelit. Think Tel Aviv flair in a desert wrapper. This street will show you bartenders who shake with confidence, and there’s usually jazz or soul playing. A date-night win.