While Israel is barely the size of New Jersey, touring the country is still incredibly exhausting. That’s why you need to refuel with delicious Israeli food and drinks in between sightseeing. Wine pairings are all the rage these days, so we took a cue and paired up major landmarks in Jewish history, museums in Israel, and country wide attractions with nearby Jerusalem, Akko, and Tel Aviv restaurants so that you can 'dine & discover' at the same time. Feed your bodies and minds with this carefully constructed list.
While there are many restaurants laced around the Kikar Rabin area, Ha’achim's custling restaurant on the busy Ibn Gvirol Street breaks the mold. Lively and friendly, it is like dining in the welcoming home of a Tel Aviv local. The emphasis is on fresh ingredients set in a location that radiates a trendy Tel Aviv vibe in an unpretentious atmosphere. The menu is composed of a myriad of house-made salads, kebabs and homegrown Israeli food.
While unlike Europe and North America, Tel Aviv has yet to jump on the prix fixe theater menu train, there are still fantastic foodie finds just meters from Habima. This hip and happening spot by brilliant young chefs, Or Michaeli and Moti Titman has been receiving rave reviews for its attention to detail, abundant seafood dishes and the unique creativity in every dish. Their modern Israeli kitchen incorporates a unique interpretation of international cuisines, focusing on the highest quality local ingredients around. Located on Rothschild Blvd, Milgo & Milbar is the perfect spot for dinner and a stroll.
This well-loved restaurant attracts locals in the know and is a perfect post-museum recharge. Chakra showcases an Italian-inspired menu with a global influence and an extensive seafood selection. The menu boasts handmade pastas, fresh-baked focaccia, and an extensive wine list.
On the roof of the luxurious Mamilla Hotel, you’ll find breathtaking views of the Old City and an extensive bistro menu with dishes straight from the ‘tabun’ (clay oven). Expect dishes like fresh handmade pastas, grouper shawarma, and a multitude of vegetables made from the best produce of the season. Enjoy the outstanding view of the Tower of David, then hop on over for the late night light show projected on its Citadel walls afterwards.
Adjacent to the must-visit Tel Aviv Art Museum, you'll find this modern brasserie showcasing classics of French and Italian cuisine while using fresh local fare with mounds of creativity. Whether you dine inside or revel on the outside terrace, you’ll love the eclectic flavors in the food, the artistic plates, the attentive service—and most of all, how all these aspects mix in perfect harmony, much like the mixture of paintings inside the museum itself. Pastel is also a great spot to grab a creative cocktail with unqie flavor combinations like beet juice and lime before a concert at the museum's quaint music hall.
Located just across from the largest synagogue in Tel Aviv, you won’t find anyone praying here. With a massive vinyl collection, the hippest waitresses, and a food menu created under the supervision of iconic Israeli chef, Eyal Shani (of Miznon and Beit Romano), you’ll understand why Port Said has been successfully serving the young communities of Tel Aviv for years. Featuring innovative Israeli dishes, there is always a new menu addition to savor. While the wait may be long and the energy intense, no visit to Tel Aviv is complete without an evening at this iconic spot. So grab a Goldstar, some delectable food, and spend your night chilling under the stars with the locals at Port Said.
Calling all seafood lovers: while visiting Akko, a trip to Uri Buri is an absolute must, as is a trek through the undergroun Templars Tunnel. Work up an appetite on an underground tour then hit up this iconic Akko institution with its minimalist decor and a laser focus on fish and flavor. Every item on the menu is fresh, seasonal and guaranteed to make your tastebuds dance, from the scrumptious seafood soup to the sashimi salmon with wasabi sorbet. But the restaurant’s true secret ingredient is Uri Jermias, the award-winning head chef who’s often found serving the dishes himself. For the utmost experience, order the Uri Buri tasting menu, a culinary trip through the most creative fresh dishes that Uri Buri offers.
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