Israel boasts some of the best Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern food you can find. Make sure to try the local fast-casual spots for schnitzel, shawarma, hummus, falafel, and more. There are also plenty of fine-dining restaurants, and we've included some recommendations here. Some of them require a reservation so be sure to book ahead of time. You may book reservations online or via the Ontopo app or website.
Tipping culture in Israel is different than America — 10% is perfectly acceptable, while 15% is considered exceptional, indicating an amazing experience. Tips are given when the server processes your payment, and they will ask if you'd like to leave a tip. Tipping is not common in fast-casual places.
[Reservations Required]
Greko: Greek restaurant on the beach in Tel Aviv (גרקו)
Taizu: Fine-dining Asian fusion (טאיזו)
Vicky Cristina: Spanish tapas. Small plates & craft cocktails (ויקי כריסטינה)
Pop & Pope: Fine-dining Asian fusion (פופ ופופ)
Yaffo Tel-Aviv: Chic restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine with French & Italian influences in a refined setting (יפו תל אביב)
Port Sa'id: Happening gathering place with Middle Eastern fare & cocktails, plus a spacious terrace (פורט סעיד)
Cafe Noir: Seasonal, global menu offered in a high-end European-inspired restaurant with a terrace (קפה נואר)
[Reservations Required]
Avant-garde design stores, fashion boutiques and handicraft shops, as well as a weekly farmers’ market in HaTachana, a restored railway station. Trendy European restaurants sit alongside stylish bistros, and many of the area’s al fresco cafes turn into live jazz bars and cocktail lounges at night.
TYO: Highly-ranked sushi spot
The Place of Meat: Steakhouse (מקום של בשר)
Anita: Top-rated ice-cream and gelato [Walk-in] (אניטה)
An eclectic mix of stalls & shops selling clothing, furniture & home goods, plus cafes & bars
Butke 23: Great schnitzel sandwiches. Located Hatikva Market. Tour the market and try the sweets from the local vendors (23 בוטקה)
HaKosem (The Magician): Falafel sandwiches located near Dizengoff square (הקוסם)
Sabich Frishman: Well-known for its sabich sandwiches, by Dizengoff square (סביח פרישמן)
Yashka: Very good shawarma spot (יאשקה)
Dabush: Shawarma gyro spot (דבוש)
Abu Adham, Abu Hassan: Hummus restaurants. (אבו אדהם, אבו חסן)
Jasmino: Famous kebab place (ג'סמינו)