Dining in Tel Aviv

Overview

The city of Jerusalem might be the historic and Biblical capital of Israel, but it’s in Tel Aviv where you’ll find the most things to do - the best clubs and bars, the finest shopping, and the most diverse cuisine in the country.  Rooted in Arab influences and Middle Eastern traditions, Tel Aviv cuisine is actually a hodgepodge of foods from around the world (thanks to the Jewish Diaspora). 

Middle Eastern Style

The Bedouins are known for their flavorful cuisine, and you’ll find many restaurants serving their cuisine while on your medical tourism holiday.  You will also find plenty of Arab cooking including shish kebabs, humus, and a sesame seed sauce called tahina. You can also expect an assortment of finely chopped salads (a staple in every Israeli meal, even at breakfast) in Tel Aviv’s restaurants.  Most dishes are eaten with pita bread, and meals are washed down with a traditional dessert called baklava and a small cup of strong Arab coffee. 

Eastern European Style

Although Middle Eastern influences are abundant, Tel Aviv cuisine branches out considerably.  There are countless delicacies and recipes brought in by Romanian, Bulgarian, Russian, German, and Polish Jews.  You can find everything from gefilte fish to borscht soup.  And the city’s thriving café scene offers numerous opportunities to people watch and digest. 

Dining Districts

For the best Middle Eastern food in Tel Aviv, head to the Yemenite Quarter of town.  The décor won’t impress, but the food is unparalleled.  Allenby Street is out of the way but has a stretch of fine restaurants.  The old Tel Aviv Port area has received some major renovations, emerging as a dining hub with tons of restaurants, bakeries, cafes, and bars.