Tel Aviv has become a dynamic culinary destination, showcasing a wide range of recipes and ingredients from around the world. This is declared by one of the oldest and most respected magazines in the world, National Geographic, in an extensive article dedicated to what and where to eat in Tel Aviv. The magazine highlights four must-visit restaurants in the city and also mentions five Israeli dishes that visitors must not miss.
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1) George & John
At the sophisticated fine-dining establishment, George & John, patrons can indulge in a creative array of dishes that showcase a fusion of culinary influences. Imaginative offerings like sea fish sashimi infused with rose perfume, or octopus cooked in lamb fat and served with corn tacos, roulade, and zesty green zhug (a Yemeni-style hot sauce) grace the menu. Renowned chef Tomer Tal masterfully combines techniques and flavors from the Mediterranean, East Asia, and the Americas. A three-course meal, excluding wine, costs approximately 300 ILS ($78).
2) Beer Bazaar
Beer Bazaar's Jaffa establishment is a fantastic spot to enjoy a variety of beers from local breweries, especially on sunny days when you can soak up the ambiance on their street-side patio. However, the original location at Carmel Market offers an unbeatable atmosphere. To truly immerse yourself in the experience, one would be well advised to order a beer flight for 55 ILS ($14) and tantalizing the taste buds with delectable bites like hummus and stuffed vine leaves for pure satisfaction.
3) Chef's Table at R48
In Tel Aviv, brunch is an absolute obsession, and the brunch experience at the upscale boutique hotel R48 is nothing short of an artistic masterpiece. Prepare to be delighted by a delectable array of offerings, including flaky pastries, artisanal cheese plates, and lentil flatbreads adorned with smoked mackerel, horseradish aioli, and an abundance of fragrant herbs. To complement the feast, there are also breakfast cocktails available. It's advisable to make a reservation in advance and dress elegantly for the occasion. The cost is approximately 220 ILS ($57) per person, excluding alcoholic beverages.
4) Hotel MonteFiore Restaurant
Step into this elegant establishment and be transported to a different world with its atmospheric lighting, enchanting music, and majestic palm trees. The ambiance exudes a captivating New York vibe that sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. While the French-Asian fusion menu takes center stage, offering tantalizing dishes such as fish carpaccio adorned with charred shallots and zesty lime aioli, succulent pork chop accompanied by bacon, and lamb elevated with fermented yuzu butter. However, it's not just the food that draws patrons here; it's also the opportunity for socializing and people-watching in this vibrant setting. For a three-course meal, excluding wine, the approximate cost is 265 ILS ($70).
Should your taste buds long for specific dishes that would likely differentiate Tel Aviv's culinary culture from other Metropolitan hubs around the world, here are five that should meet that delectable need:
1) Hummus - When it comes to this beloved local symbol, it's hard to come across a subpar rendition, but the true gems can be discovered at Abu Hassan in Jaffa and Hummus HaCarmel in Carmel Market. These establishments are renowned for serving some of the finest versions of this iconic dish.
2) Yemenite soup - Shimon the King of Soups in Carmel Market is renowned for its lunchtime specialty: sumptuous beef broths that are sure to satisfy. What makes this experience even more enticing is that you can enjoy unlimited refills at no extra cost, essentially making it an all-you-can-eat affair.
3) Chicken schnitzel - While the origins of schnitzel can be traced back to Vienna, Tel Aviv has embraced this Germanic dish and made it its own by using chicken in lieu of veal or pork. Fancy a bite? HaKovshim is the place to be. Don't miss the opportunity to savor this delightful culinary delight.
4) Halva - Indulge in the multifaceted delight that is a slice of fudge-like sweet made with nutty tahini and available in a variety of flavors, easily incorporated into a main meal or enjoyed as a standalone dessert. In Carmel Market, it's conveniently sold by the slice, allowing you to savor the different flavors.
5) Malabi - Malabi is a dessert par excellence, a truly exceptional treat. It features a creamy, milky pudding foundation crowned with a delicate layer of rosewater jelly. To indulge yourself, be prepared to join the eager queue at Malabi Dajani, located at 94 Jerusalem Ave in the vibrant district of Jaffa.