Jaffa Port
© Shutterstock
© Shutterstock

Warehouse whereabouts: our guide to Jaffa Port

A charming twist on Israel’s ancient port city

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Whether it be a Saturday afternoon or a midweek evening, escaping to the Old Jaffa Port on the other side of the Tel Aviv beach sand strip is a magical thing. The ancient Israeli port that dates back to Biblical times has taken a cue from their modern younger sister, the Tel Aviv Port – they’ve transformed their old warehouses into versatile spaces hosting Jewish art galleries, the most authentic restaurants in Jaffa, including the famed Old Man And The Sea and classic fish n’ chips joints, as well as a unique blind theater center and pitch black restaurant. Soak in the unique charm nestled in and around the hangars of Jaffa Port.

The best of Jaffa Port

  • Mediterranean
  • Jaffa Port

Since branching out to the Jaffa Port, The Old Man and the Sea has become more than a meal, it is a complete theatrical scene. From waiters running around like whirling dervishes, to giant pitchers of fresh squeezed lemonade, and so many vibrant salads you won't even need a main course (though you must try the grilled chicken, fish and kebabs), a weekend brunch at the port is worth braving the long line. Don't fret, it moves fast, and the fare is worth it. While the inside is cool on a hot day, we suggest braving the heat and eating port-side for the full experience. Throw in warm oven baked pita bread, and complimentary coffee/tea and tiny balls of honey-glazed goodness for dessert, and you'll never want to leave

  • Israeli
  • Jaffa Port
  • price 3 of 4

BlackOut is a truly unique experience that triggers the senses in an exceptional culinary adventure. The meal is served in total darkness and is served by blind waiters. Part of the Nagala’at Arts Center for the deaf, blind, and both deaf and blind, BlackOut dinners begin with a cocktail prior to entering the pitch black room, and the menu itself boasts fish, dairy and vegetarian options. The loss of vision is said to improve one’s ability to taste and smell, bringing the meal's decadent flavors alive. Reservations are required to partake in this unique culinary experience.

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  • Performing arts space
  • Jaffa Port

Located in the heart of Jaffa’s port, the Nalaga’at Center is home to one of Israel’s most unconventional and exceptional theaters: deaf and blind actors and hosts take the audience on a magical tour into the districts of their own inner world.

  • Attractions
  • Beaches
  • Jaffa Port

The Ajami Beach neighborhood just south of Old Jaffa is a charming escape from Tel Aviv. The stairway-alleys leading down to the beach as well as the Maronic Church offer visitors a historic view of a now-modern beach community. To complete your journey at Ajami Beach, be sure to stop by the famous Abu Hassan for some unbelievable hummus, guaranteed to give you the energy to keep exploring

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  • Mediterranean
  • Jaffa Port
  • price 2 of 4

Situated in Jaffa with breathtaking dock views and the salty fragrance of the sea, this restaurant and bar serves seasonal seafood and fish. Brunch it up with the hearty ‘shakshuka’ (eggs cooked in tomato sauce) or munch on the calamari in a slightly sweet orange and chili sauce. Check out their website for details about evening shows.

  • Art
  • Galleries
  • Jaffa Port

This extraordinary exhibition space, located in Jaffa's historic port, was established in 2010 and opened with the purpose of exhibiting and exposing Palestinian art. In its first year, the gallery exclusively displayed works by Palestinian artists from around Israel and the Palestinian authority. By 2012, the Salon decided to broaden its activity to exhibit young Israeli artists - both Jewish and Arabic - to show that art knows no political divides. The Jaffa Art Salon is under the direction of Yair Rothman and Amir Neuman Ahuvia, with Ya’ara Oren serving as the artistic advisor.

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  • Performing arts space
  • Jaffa Port

Smack dab in the middle of the Jaffa Port complex, facing the instagram worthy Mediterranean sea, is a gem of a culture center. Conceived by the Israel Choreographers Association, the unique venue offers a space for performing arts events of all kinds. From dance performances by leading Israeli choreographers, and music and theatre performances, to conferences and family-friendly weekend shows, Warehouse 2 (“Mahsan 2” in Hebrew) invites Tel Avivians and Jaffa residents alike to revel in the incredible arts and culture this city has to offer. Let Jaffa prove its creative worth at Warehouse 2.

  • Art
  • Galleries
  • Old Jaffa

This gallery is an important venue for local art and culture, featuring artwork from local Israeli artists. With both individual and group showings, the Jaffa Port Gallery hosts both established and emerging members of the Israeli art scene. The exhibitions change regularly, allowing visitors to consistently discover fresh works of art. Located in the scenic Jaffa Port, it is the perfect stop after a day of exploring the historic city or sun worshipping on the nearby beach.  

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