Molly Bloom’s, Tel Aviv - the best Irish bar in Israel?

When visiting Tel Aviv you might just find yourself swayed by the thronging masses of late-night Tel Aviv revelers and drinkers into having a quick drinkie. And you could do a lot worse than head down to Molly Bloom’s for a pint or three…

Molly Bloom’s was the first Irish pub to land in Israel, back in 2000 (wow, has it really been nine years!?) and quickly became the leading light in the tourist pub world in Tel Aviv. Highly recommended by almost every Israeli you’ll ever talk to (including Matty and Roni), it definitely has the feel of a happening and friendly pub, and you’re guaranteed a great evening.

I’m often amazed at how busy the place can be mid-week, but I quickly remind myself that this is Tel Aviv…and don’t forget, most bars in Israel don’t usually close until the wee hours, so that quick drink could soon turn into a long night, especially if you start chatting with the Israelis on the tables next to you (which often happens…).

If you’ve already had enough of the Israeli local beers, you’ll probably be in need of an Irish beer or whiskey. Urgently. And you won’t be disappointed. I’m not a big Guinness fan, probably because I’ve had too many bad pints served to me over the years in Israel, but the guys at Molly Bloom’s have the best in town, without a doubt. They also have plenty of Kilkenny (my personal fave) and Weihenstephan (a big favorite amongst Israelis). And then there’s the shelves behind the bar stacked with whiskeys…

The best night to head over to Molly Bloom’s? Probably Mondays and Wednesdays, when they have a live band banging out some authentic Irish tunes. Best to get there before 9:00pm to make sure you get yourself a seat, after that it gets very crowded. Whatever the day, just remember Happy Hour lasts until 8:00pm every day, until when most beers are only 17 shekels or so.

By the way, Molly Bloom was actually a character from James Joyce’s famous masterpiece Ulysses. She was married to Leopold Bloom (an Irish Jew - you just knew there was a Jewish connection somewhere, right?) who was one of the heroes from the book.

And here’s a little taster of Molly Bloom’s in full flow. If you’re feeling thirsty, look away now!

Address: 2 Mendele Street, on the corner of 100 HaYarkon Street, opposite Dan Hotel.
Telephone: 03-5221558