Eilat Eats: the best resort town restaurants

Located in a beautifully secluded garden in one of Eilat’s most veteran neighborhoods is a charming market restaurant and wine bar by the name of Pedro (the only restaurant in Eilat to include a wine bar, featuring a large selection of labels, including local wines from the Red Sea Winery). Chef Tal Hershkivitz who runs the kitchen introduces his diners to fascinating culinary experiences as he takes them on a voyage into the wonderful worlds of flavor, color and enchanting aromas: Moroccan-style ravioli with fish, an original take on Israeli couscous, their signature Tournedos Rossini, and more. If the aromas alone don’t instantly win you over, you can give me a call.

This swank establishment gets its name from its menu, which offers five different types of international cuisine: Italian, American, Mexican, Oriental and Asian. While one may think that these five distinct flavors do not come together, 5th Avenue manages to combine these flavors in a beautiful culinary combination. The atmosphere is intoxicating and the food is fantastic, but the night doesn’t end here. Keep those cocktails flowing as great musical vibes take over the room and last into the wee hours of the morn. There’s no need to make it an early night…you can sleep on the flight home

Located on the North Beach, this destination dining restaurant comes from the hands of two successful chefs, Inbar Shapira and Lior Raphael, formerly of restaurant Hamasger 5—a place known for its attention to detail and beautifully-plated dishes.  Whale lives up to the same standards, offering an element of surprise with its refined simplicity and seasonal ingredients, brimming with freshness and creative takes on classic dishes. The ever-changing menu guarantees that no matter when you come in, you will be intrigued by the craftsmanship in every dish.

This local institution made its debut in 1986. After changing locations and undergoing renovations (due to a fire), it still thrives in the big sea of Eilat restaurants. The stellar waterside location of Eilat’s Marina can’t be beat, and the menu is a blend of creative Mediterranean and French cuisine. Experience local seafood at its best with fresh shrimp, calamari, lobster and colorful seafood platters. Sushi lovers will rejoice at the freshness, variety and creativity. An extensive wine list makes this the perfect spot for a romantic dinner by the sea.  

Featuring an eclectic selection of Asian cuisine, this modern fusion restaurant is known for its creative menu and top-notch sushi bar. Try traditional soups like the ramen, Japanese noodle soup, Thai soups like the“Tom Yom” soup, as well as the flavorful miso soups. Feast on the plump gyoza, or pick from an extensive sushi menu with seafood dishes using fresh Asian spices and vibrant ingredients. Locals know to come for specials like the Malaysian fish, a jam-packed seafood stew with the finest gems of the sea like shrimp, calamari and crabs, all served in a cream sauce showcasing basil and fresh chilies, or the yakitori shrimp steamed in sake and garlic.  

Little Brazil is a carnivore's dream, serving up a churrasco-style, lavish barbecue of all-you-can-eat meat, all on gigantic skewers. The Pasador (carver) slices from the abundant array of meats right in front of your eyes. Taste from a large selection of meats like flank steak, entrecote, lamb and more with endless refills of side dishes like the popular“feijoada,” smoked meat stew with beans. A lot more than just a restaurant, this is a dining experience and a fun and hearty way to end a day at the beach.  

Venture off the beaten path into Eddie’s Hideaway, one of the longest running establishments in Eilat that’s served up culinary gems from all over the world since 1979. The star of the show is the American owner, Eddie, with his love for food from all over the world. The menu is a mix of Italian, French and American. From steaks and pastas to an array of fresh seafood and numerous renditions of shrimp, mussels and more, everything is in bounty here.  Eddie’s Hide-A-Way is a great spot for hosting  private events, too.  

When in Eilat, dine like a Brazilian with churrascaria, a Brazilian barbecue where plenty of meaty possibilities are served right in front of you; it’s a meat-fest of sorts for hungry diners hanging out at the Red Sea. The effervescent vibe is intoxicating, especially on Fridays when Brazilian dancers pump up the energy. Dine family-style with over 11 types of meat showcased to your delight, or go all out and order the premium version with over 14 varieties of meat. You can also just weigh your possibilities by ordering meat  by the weight to take home with you.  

Located in the most southern part of Israel close to the Taba border crossing, is a restaurant that is part of a larger picture, a diving club,  an events space,  all part of Colonia, a beautiful beach resort.  This Chef’s restaurant showcases a contemporary Mediterranean menu made with the abundance of local ingredients and a menu that rotates often. You’ll also find handmade focaccias and “lachmajuns,”a Middle Eastern dough that is topped with chopped meat and local spices. Whether it be for a lavish breakfast, cocktails or bites overlooking the beach, this place is a hidden gem of a spot.

Take a trip through a myriad of countries: moving from Spain to Italy, France, Greece, Morocco and more, this international restaurant serves up a kosher meat menu that is bound to inspire. Meats are smoked to perfection, the fish is fresh from the sea and you can order a large selection of tapas from stuffed mushrooms to ceviche to grilled lamb meatballs topped with an almond tahini. There is an extensive vegan menu as well.