Café Xoho

Walking into Café Xoho, a local gem of a café, you might think, from the funky art, the sleepy house cat, and the eclectic chalkboard menu, that you had stumbled into a neighborhood San Fran cafe in the Haight. Founded by Xoli Ormut-Durbin, an Israeli olah who was raised in Hong Kong by Canadian parents, Café Xoho began as a bonafide locals’ secret – fit with perfectly roasted coffee beans and anglo waitresses who always know your name. Even in café-crazed Tel Aviv, Xoho stands out. Everything, from the piping hot bagels crowned with beet-cured salmon to the buttery chocolate-chip cookies, the umami-bomb kale ceasar salad and even the jams and spreads – are made in-house. The menu includes a full juice bar (the purple lemonade is a must-try), a huge range of vegan options (the mushroom bacon has a bit of a cult following), with various vegan and gluten-free options. Soy and almond milk are always in stock, and Matcha Green Tea lattes, both cold and hot, are winners. Swing by on Monday nights for live music, grab one of the six varieties of cookies always on offer, and sip on a perfectly-made cup of java. Like the dozens of regulars that make up their loyal clientele, you might find yourself not wanting to leave.