The best Mexican restaurant in Israel?

Over the past few years Israel has turned itself into a goldmine of culinary delights. It’s not just the local goodies, like falafel, shakshuka, hummus or jachnun, that will get your mouth watering, there are plenty of world foods now on the menu, and not just in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem.

If you’re hungry for some decent Mexican food, then a trek out of the big cities is a must. That’s right, time to drive up to Zichron Yaakov, a 45-minute drive up the coastal road from Tel Aviv, where you can find a great little Mexican restaurant, open only a few months (since December 2008).

You’ll be looking for Amigos Mexican Grille, which is just off the main promenade in Zichron Yaakov at 15 Rechov Hanadiv. It was originally setup by a Mexican family of new immigrants, who joined forces with another Mexican-Jewish family when it became clear that finding authentic Mexican flavors in the Holy Land was nigh on impossible.

A big plus for those keeping kosher is the restaurant’s adherence to mehadrin kashrut, thanks to the building’s religious owner. Oh yes, Kosher Mexican food, which means quality kosher chicken, beef and fish. There’s also a homemade sauce that’ll amaze and delight you; it’s called chipotle techina and well worth a try. One drawback with the abiding by kashrut laws is the closure of the restaurant on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

If you’re feeling hungry, look away now…highly recommended are the fish tacos and beef burittos, or juicy carne asada (chicken) tacos, hot sauteed peppers and the crispy tortilla chips. Oh crikey…

Here’s their website, which is basically just a menu, but I’m sure it’ll get upgraded soon. With plans to open a branch soon in Tel Aviv, perhaps you won’t have to drive up to Zichron Yaakov to get your hands on some Mexican…

Address: 15 Rechov Hanadiv, Zichron YaaKov
Telephone: 04-6292258
www.amigosisrael.com