If you’re heading to Israel, you’re in for a culinary treat. Israel boasts an incredible food scene that blends local and Middle Eastern flavors to create some truly unforgettable dishes. Whether you love street food or prefer dining in a cozy restaurant, this guide will help you make the most of your food experience in the Holy Land.
Classic Israeli Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss
Falafel
Israelis take their falafel seriously. This deep-fried ball made from chickpeas or fava beans is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor. You can find falafel served in a pita, drizzled with tahini, and piled high with fresh veggies like cucumber, tomato, and pickles.
For authentic falafel, head to Falafel Hakosem in Tel Aviv. It’s a local favorite, and their falafel is always perfectly crispy without being too greasy.
Hummus
No trip to Israel is complete without tasting some real hummus. Smooth, creamy, and often served warm, hummus in Israel is in a league of its own. Whether you like it topped with whole chickpeas, hard-boiled eggs, or olive oil, you won’t be disappointed by the variations you’ll find.
One of the best places to try hummus is Abu Hassan in Jaffa. People swear by it as the best hummus in Israel, and it’s been a local hotspot for decades.
Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a traditional Israeli breakfast dish made from poached eggs stewed in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce. Often seasoned with cumin and topped with fresh herbs like parsley or coriander, it is rich and comforting.
For top-tier shakshuka, try Dr. Shakshuka in Jaffa. They serve a traditional version that’ll make you rethink how good breakfast can be.
Sabich
If you’re after something a bit different, try Sabich. It’s a pita stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, salad, tahini, and amba (a tangy mango sauce). It’s filling and packed with a variety of textures and flavors.
The place to go for Sabich is Sabich Frishman in Tel Aviv. Locals rave about the freshness of ingredients and the perfectly crisp eggplant.
Street Foods Worth Seeking Out
Jachnun
This slow-baked Yemenite pastry is a weekend favorite. Made from rolled dough and baked overnight, jachnun has a chewy texture and a subtly sweet flavor. It’s typically served with crushed tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and spicy schug sauce.
Head to Jachnun Bar in Tel Aviv to get the best jachnun in the city, whether you want to grab a quick bite on the go or sit down and enjoy it leisurely.
Bourekas
A savory delight, bourekas are puff pastries filled with things like cheese, potatoes, spinach, or mushrooms. Golden and flaky, they’re an ideal snack or breakfast food for on the go.
You’ll find standout bourekas at Le Moulin in Tel Aviv. Their cheese bourekas are rich, flavorful, and just the right size for a filling snack.
Malawach
Another Yemenite dish, malawach is a fried flatbread that’s served with grated tomatoes and hard-boiled eggs. It has a doughy interior and a crispy outer layer, making it a perfect option for a late-morning snack.
Shlomo & Doron in Tel Aviv makes a fantastic malawach, and you can enjoy it with the addition of various savory toppings like cheese or labneh (strained yogurt).
Sweet Treats to Satisfy Your Cravings
Kanafeh
Kanafeh is an insanely good dessert made with crispy filo dough, a sweet cheese filling, and soaked in sugar syrup. It’s often topped with crushed pistachios for that extra bit of crunch and flavor. Every bite is sweet, crunchy, and just a little salty from the cheese.
Grab a plate of kanafeh at Abu Ziad in Nazareth. Many locals will tell you this is the best place for kanafeh in Israel.
Halva
Made from ground sesame seeds and sugar, halva is a nutty, crumbly dessert that melts in your mouth while delivering a rich, intense sesame flavor. It’s often flavored with things like chocolate, pistachios, or dried fruit.
Visit Halva Kingdom at the Mahane Yehuda Market in Jerusalem for a dazzling variety of halva flavors and textures.
Sufganiyot
Sufganiyot are deep-fried, jelly-filled doughnuts. In Israel, they’re especially popular during Hanukkah, but you can find them year-round in many bakeries. Light and fluffy on the outside, they are generously filled with jam or cream and dusted with powdered sugar.
You can find some of the best sufganiyot at Roladin bakeries, which are found all over Israel.
Where to Get the Best Dining Experiences
Machneyuda – Jerusalem
Machneyuda is a wildly popular farm-to-table restaurant located near the famous Machane Yehuda market. The atmosphere is lively, the plates are filled with local flavors, and you can expect everything from seafood to steak.
Book early to guarantee a table. Their menu changes daily, but you’re always in for a culinary adventure.
Ouzeria – Tel Aviv
Located in Tel Aviv’s trendiest neighborhood, Florentin, Ouzeria is an intimate Mediterranean eatery serving tapas-style dishes. From grilled calamari to creamy labneh, everything on the menu is packed with bold and creative flavors.
If you’re looking for a more casual yet vibrant dining experience, this is the spot to hit.
Diana – Nazareth
Diana Restaurant in Nazareth is known for exceptional Arabic food. The menu includes everything from grilled meats to flavorful salads and mezzes. The mixed grill platters are a must if you want to try a little bit of everything.
It’s a bit pricier than a quick street food stop, but it’s worth every shekel for the quality and flavors.
Insider Tips for the Best Israeli Food Experiences
Explore the Markets
Markets like the Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem or the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv are a great way to taste local flavors. Not only can you sample foods from different vendors, but you can also buy fresh spices, cheeses, olives, and baked goods.
Ask for Recommendations
Locals are passionate about their food—and they know where the best spots are. Ask for recommendations when you’re exploring, and don’t be afraid to try places that look simple. Israeli “hole-in-the-wall” restaurants often serve the best food.
Don’t Skip the Small Eateries
Some of the best food can be found in tiny, unassuming eateries. These small restaurants may not look fancy, but they’re where you’ll find authentic and flavorful Israeli dishes prepared by locals who love what they do.
Wrapping It Up
Israel is a food lover’s paradise. From the flavor-packed street foods to the incredible fine dining experiences, every meal is a voyage for your taste buds. Dive into the local cuisine and enjoy exploring this beautiful country through its food, one forkful at a time.
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