Tel Aviv is all set to welcome Eurovision next week. Predictions are that 10,000 tourists will be enjoying the city between 14th and 18th May when the campest competition in the (European) community rolls into town.
Even those there for purely for the spectacle should make time to enjoy some of Tel Aviv’s fabulous food. If you’re flying in and out you’ll want to know where to find the best places to grab a bite or enjoy a cocktail and soak up some of the city’s famed hospitality so we’ve asked some of the experts for their picks:
THE HOTELIER:
Avi Zak, Managing Partner, The Drisco Hotel, Tel Aviv
George & John
Our hotel restaurant, named after the original two founders of the original hotel on this site opened in 1866. Chef Tomer Tal and his team serve up modern Israeli food in the airy, refurbished dining room.
Yaffo-Tel Aviv
Renowned chef Haim Cohen uses innovative techniques to serve up food that is a combination of everything Tel Aviv and Jaffa with some Jerusalem and a lot of European influence. Fine dining.
Shila
Sharon Cohen’s fine food in a stylish atmosphere. A family-run Tel Aviv restaurant that’s been around for many years. Another special occasion place, but worth pushing the boat out for.
THE EXECUTIVE CHEF:
Barak Aharoni, Alena Restaurant
HaBasta
I love the casual vibrant atmosphere of this restaurant based in Carmel Market. The excellent menu changes daily depending on the produce available in the market and a superb wine list.
Bar 51
This great wine bar has a superb bar menu of small tasting plates from Chef Moshiko Gamieli of Mona in Jerusalem.
Salimi
As authentic as it gets Persian food in Lewinsky market area .
THE HOSPITALITY CONSULTANTS:
Hayley Levy and Linda Mady - Co-founders EasyBEE, Tel Aviv
Hakosem
Israeli street food at its absolute best - lots of vegetarian options like humous and his signature fried aubergine. Don't be put off by the queues.
The Social Club
A bistro that's always buzzing and offers a menu that works for everyone. Food is a Middle Eastern/ European mash up and cocktails are cool. You’ll find it bang in the middle of Rothschild Boulevard.
Ezra bar at Barbunia
It’s a North Tel Aviv foodie institution, opposite the main Barbunia restaurant. Intimate vibrant bar with loud music, very fresh fish and an endless supply of refillable side dishes. All fish come either baked or fried.
THE FOOD CRITIC:
Gil Hovav, culinary journalist, author and television personality
Bar Imperial
This has to be the best secret bar in TLV, hidden away in the Imperial Hotel. They stay open until 2.30am and also serve great food.
Hanan Margilan
You will find amazing Uzbek food at this family-owned Bukharian restaurant in the Shapira neighbourhood. Be prepared for lots of meat — from meat skewers to dumplings and meat-filled pastries.
Bana
A cool vegan place serving up a daily changing menu for lunch and dinner.
