Taking place between the 14th – 17th May at the Ganei Yehoshua Park next to the legendary Luna Park, the Ta’am Ha’ir festival will have its usual list of awesome Tel Aviv restaurants offering mini samples of some of their very best portions at dirt cheap prices (ranging from 20-35 shekels).

The action starts at 17:30 on the 14th, and at 18:00 the rest of the week, and lasts til the very last wee morsel has been gobbled down. Some of Tel Aviv’s best restaurants will be there (including some from our guide to the best Tel Aviv restaurants of 2011) so expect to be spoiled for choice!

It really is a great night out for all the family, with plenty of live bands to check out, celebrity chefs plying their trade, and even events for the little ones (including a chocolate mouse workshop on Monday the 14th, and a carpentry workshop that will run through the whole festival).

If you need to know what you’re letting yourself in for at Ta’am Ha’ir, check this little video out from last year’s festival…and start feeling the hunger pangs!

Click here to view the embedded video.

It’s not often we get a chance to completely stuff our faces, get drunk on greeeeat wine AND  be the last ones to leave the restaurant, but when duty calls…and the  beauty of Knaipeh, a cute little restaurant in the Galilee moshav of Sharona, is that you too can indulge and have the same experience!

Built (by his own hands) and run by owner Avram for the last 7 years, this is a place that meat eaters will love and lust after, all you need to do is come hungry!

Avram will stoke up that hearth (call in advance to let him know) during the winter months, then ply you with some of the tastiest wine you’ve ever let slip between your lips! We’re not big wine drinkers, but let Avram  convince you that wine is what you need, you won’t be disappointed.

As for the food, well, what can we say, if you like big juicy steaks – go for it! Don’t think I’ve ever had such an enormous slab of meat to slice my way through – and enjoy every bite! The side salad is deliciously fresh, and the mashed potatoes up there with the very best…and, of course, the only problem with all that meat is that you’ll struggle to find a spot for some delish dessert. And yes, there’s a whole lot more than great meat: Galilee hummus, soups, green salads, fresh tehina, etc…

If you’re expecting luxury, don’t. The restaurant is homey and cosy, and definitely not on a par with most of the places you can find in the center of Israel in regards to style and luxury. But a great rustic atmosphere awaits, along with one of the best hosts we’ve ever come across in Israel.

So if you’re on the hunt for some great food, and a truly great steak, this really should be your destination if you’re up in the north of Israel.

The restaurant is open from 12:00 to 24:00 (and longer) every day of the week. Expect to pay between 100-200 shekels per person, depending on how much you can scoff down. To reserve a table (the restaurant works by reservation only), call 054-2185530. No credit cards accepted.

Bon appetite!

Now in it’s 7th year, the Ta’am Kinneret Festival is a great opportunity to indulge in some of the culinary delights of the area – and there are plenty! The Festival runs from 21-31 December, and we’ve picked out some of the highlights below (for more details, call 04-6752727 or see the main site (Hebrew only)):

22.12.11 - Tamar BeKfar (on Moshav Kinneret) is holding a wine and cheese tasting evening, and will also introduce you to the delights of…sesame!

23.12.11 – The 3rd King of the Poyke competition hits town! Held at the Marinado restaurant in En Gev between 10:00 and 14:00, this is a great afternoon out on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, and includes lots of grill cooking, beer on tap, and a show by Pablo Rozenberg.

21-31.12.11 - Galita Chocolate (on Kibbutz Deganya Bet) will be holding special Hanukkah themed workshops for kids and adults all through the Festival.

31.12.11 - Rotenberg restaurant (located at the Old Bridge, just south of the Sea of Galilee) will be holding an amazing fusion-themed New Year’s Eve celebration, kicking off at 21:00.

Bon appetit!

The list is based on the annual vote held by the magazine Time Out (we did the same this time last year; they list theirs in Hebrew, we give it to you in English). Some of last year’s winners hold on to their top spots this year, some don’t. We’d definitely recommend having a look at some of the great Tel Aviv restaurants on last year’s list that didn’t make it this year…

Here they are, Tel Aviv’s finest eateries!

Restaurant of the Year 2011 – Toto, Berkovitz 4 (Tel: 03-6935151). A classy Italian restaurant that serves up some awesome appetizers, pastas and pizzas, among other things, all prepared by one of the best chefs in town. Prices aren’t cheap, as you’d expect, but the quality and service are simply excellent! Website

Fanciest Restaurant 2011 - Mul Yam, Tel Aviv Port (Tel: 03-5469920/30). One of Israel’s very best restaurants, serving up some amazing seafood with views of the Port to complement.  Expensive, but they do a good deal on a Business Lunch (160 shekels). Website

Best New Restaurant 2011 - Mizlala, Nachalat Binyamin 57, (Tel: 03-5665505). A narrow but happening place which translated means something like “stuff your face”. Go for the signature “shot and a bite”! Website

Best Meat Restaurant 2011 – Neve Tzedek, Shabazi 64 (Tel: 0579444023). As they call themselves, “A Place for meat”, with a very meat-focused menu. Home to the best steaks in Tel Aviv, as many will testify. Website

Best Fish & Seafood Restaurant 2011 – Rokach 73, Rokach Boulevard 73 (Tel: 0579443209). Leading chef Eyal Levi’s elegant bistro, this is the place to come for great seafood and fish food. Extensive wine list too. Website

Best Italian Restaurant 2011 – Pronto, Hertzl 4 (Tel: 03-5660915). Started over 20 years ago and the place to come for lovers of all things Italian. A past winner of Ristorante Italiano, the award given to supreme Italian restaurants worldwide. Not overly expensive. Website

Best Asian Restaurant 2011 – Beit Thailandi (as per last year), Bograshov 8 (Tel: 03-5178568). A great place for real Thai food, and not the kind that has been watered down for Western tastes.

Best Tapas Restaurant 2011 – Tapeo (last year’s winner), Ha’arba’ah 16 (Tel: 03-6240484). The leader of the pack in terms of tapas bars in Tel Aviv, this place has a great range of those small, tasty dishes and a great atmosphere, even in mid-week. Website

Best Bar 2011 – HaMinzar, Allenby 60 (Tel: 03-5173015). A legend among Tel Aviv bars, though at first glance hard to see why! Often crowded, with some good music, the service has been known to be on the ropey side. Terrific Tel Aviv atmosphere.

Best Beer Bar  2011 – Porter & Sons (last year’s winner), Ha’arba’ah 14 (Tel: 03-6244355). This place has over 50 kinds of beer on tap and 70 kinds of bottled beer; if you can find a better stocked bar in the whole of the Middle East, let us know! Website

Bar with the Best Food 2011 – Messa (last year’s winner), Ha’arba’ah 19 (Tel: 03-6856859). A creative menu backed by a very well-stocked and cool bar. Great design (see the pic on the left), well worth having a drink and a bite to eat here. Website

Best Wine Bar 2011 – Juno, Da Haz 1, Kikar Milano (Tel: 03-5446620). Awesome selection of wine, and food if you’re peckish. Great ambiance in the heart of Tel Aviv, in a quiet side street. Website

Best Cafe 2011 – HaTachtit (The Basement – also won last year), Lincoln 9 (Tel: 03-5618759). Open 24 hours, this place has fast become known for its vibe (usually great music), its food and its service. Not exactly on the regular tourist route, but worth a visit.

Best Bakery 2011 – Dalal Bakery (last year’s winner), Shebazi 10 (Tel: 03-5109292). Awesome location (the Neve Tzedek ‘hood) – try those gorgeous muffins and some of the tastiest bread in Tel Aviv. They also do a very tasty breakfast. Website

Best Street Cafe 2011 – HaMiznon, Ibn Gvirol 23 (Tel: 03-7168977). This cute little street cafe serves up great stylish meals in a pita bread. Quality, and fairly cheap, you might have to queue to get your hands on some nosh here…

Best Bistro 2011 – Brasserie (last year’s winner), Ibn Gvirol 70 (Tel: 03-6967111). A top restaurant with a menu that changes three times a day. Some even go far as to say it has redefined the Tel Aviv culinary scene. Website

Best Natural/Vegetarian Restaurant 2011 – 24 Rupee (last year’s winner), Shocken 16, 2nd floor (Tel: 03-6818066). A cute Indian restaurant that has long been a fave with those looking for genuine, great value, and very tasty Indian food. Website

Best Ethnic Restaurant 2011 – Dr Shaksuka, Beit Eshel 3, Jaffa (Tel: 0579444193). Long one of our faves, Dr Shakshuka is a Kosher Tripolitanian restaurant specializing in home cuisine and traditional dishes, but renowned for its shakshuka (spicy tomato, egg and peppers dish, served at your table in the pan, as in the pic on the right). Great atmosphere.  Website

Restaurant with the Best Yard 2011 – Vicky Cristina, Building 17, HaTachana complex (Tel:  03-7367272). A hip new tapas restaurant and bar located in HaTachana, Tel Aviv’s new entertainment complex. Vicky is the tapas restaurant, Cristina the wine bar. Website

Best Romantic Restaurant 2011 – Mel and Michelle, Ben Yehuda 155 (Tel: 03-5293232). Last year’s Best Italian winner, this is a great little place in the heart of busy Tel Aviv. Great styling, great food, and yes, romantic! Website

Best Restaurant by the Sea 2011 – Manta Ray (last year’s winner), Alma Beach (Tel: 03-5174773). The restaurant with the killer location, is how we reviewed it. Things haven’t changed – great, cool place, delish food, awesome beach view. Website

Best Hummus Bar 2011 – Ali Caravan/Abu Hassan (last year’s winner), Shvatay Israel 14 (Tel: 03-6828355). The legendary hummus joint, for hard core hummus fans only. No real surprise this place is No.1 on our list of top 10 hummus joints in Israel.

Best Pizzeria 2011 – Tony Vespa (last year’s winner), Rothschild 142 (Tel: 03-6858888). Great pizza sold by the weight (yes!), not by the slice. Very tasty pizza that has become a Tel Aviv fast food icon.

Best Hamburger Bar 2011 – Agadir (last year’s winner), HaTaarucha 3 (Tel: 03-5444045). Now with 6 branches, this hamburger joint that first started flipping burgers some 15 years ago has taken over Tel Aviv. Great hamburgers in a great atmosphere. Website

Best Ice-Cream Bar 2011 – Vaniglia, 5 branches in Tel Aviv, including Ibn Gvirol 98 and the ground floor of Dizengoff Center. Delicious ice-cream that has won over most of Tel Aviv. Lots of great flavors and sorbets too. Don’t look at their Belgian Dark Chocolate over to the right…don’t… Website

Best Value for Money Restaurant 2011 – Goocha, Dizengoff 171, Ibn Gvirol 14, and HaBarzel 7 (Tel: 03-5222886, 03-6911603). A great little fish and seafood restaurant, now with 3 branches in Tel Aviv. Cheap, fresh, and great quality – what more do you need? Website

Best Deli 2011 – Hinnawi (last year’s winner), Yeffet 180, Yafo (Tel: 03-5075618). A long-time family business that is without doubt the most popular deli in The City That Never Sleeps. Website

If you come across any great restaurants in Tel Aviv that aren’t on this list, let us know in the comments below!

Bon appetit!

Perhaps not the finest cuisine in the Holy Land, the transforming experience is what it’s all about…

Originally opened in 2007, Na Laga’at (which translates to “Please touch”) was founded by the Nalaga’at non-profit organization, which in turn was founded on the ideal that every human being has the right to contribute to the society in which he or she lives. The Center is the first of its kind in the world and its main aim is to promote interaction between deaf-blind, deaf, and blind individuals and people able to hear and see, regardless of cultural or social distinctions.

The Na Laga’at Center has three main experiences to enjoy:

• Nalaga’at Theater: home to the deaf-blind Acting Ensemble, and which has seen over 500 performances of their much talked about play Not by Bread Alone, in addition to their kids show, Prince Rooster.
• Café Kapish: a regular Tel Aviv-style cafe but with deaf waiters who communicate with you in…Sign Language (you’ll pick up a few words along the way!). The cafe is Kosher (and therefore closed on Friday evening/Saturday), and is open from 09:00 to 23:00 every day, except Fridays when it closes at 16:00.
• BlackOut: the pitch-black restaurant (yes, complete darkness – so don’t wear your Sunday best!) with a staff of blind waiters. Here your ability to taste and smell are taken to the extreme – some find it uncomfortable, many find it transforming. By the way, the restaurant is Kosher, there are vegetarian and fish menus, and it’s open Sunday to Thursday, evenings only.

As they put it on their website (www.nalagaat.org.il – see the site for menus and performance schedules): A visit to the Center will change the way you think, the way you feel, the way you are…

You can also find them on Facebook.

Here’s a glimpse at what you can expect at Na Laga’at…

Click here to view the embedded video.

So here they are, the best, the very best, the top 10 hummus restaurants in Israel. Bon appetit!

Abu Hassan (otherwise known as Eli Caravan)

1 Dolphin Street, Yafo

The favorite of many Tel Aviv locals, Abu Hassan is renowned throughout Israel and people are known to come from far and wide for a plate of the holy stuff. Don’t ask for a boiled egg with your hummus as the staff will get pissed with this “invented by the Jews” side-dish (go with the raw onion instead). Open from morning til the hummus runs out…Telephone: 03-6820387

Sa’eed

Old City market, Acco

Another legendary hummus joint, Sa’eed is a great place to stop by when on a day trip to Acco’s Old City and market. Erratic opening hours as Sa’eed stays open only as long as there’s some hummus left, so try and get there early lunchtime! The service is typically great and quick. Telephone: 04-9913945

Abu Adham

Kfar Yassif (11km north east of Acco), located next to the village Post Office

The original of what is now a national chain (none of which compare favorably with this place), here is the place to go for some true Galilee hummus. You can even get away with asking for a boiled egg here. Open all day til 5pm. Telephone: 04-9996245

Hummus Ashkara

Yermiyahu 45, Tel Aviv

One of Tel Aviv’s original hummus joints, this place has been serving up the mighty hummus for years, almost round the clock (yes, even in the wee hours of the night). You can get the regular plates of hummus here, plus a boiled egg (no questions asked), and they’ve also recently introduced – chips! Also Kosher for those interested. Telephone: 052-2532296

The Jingee

Kibbutz Einat (next to Rosh Ha’ayin)

We’re not even sure this is the name of the place (The Jingee translates to The Redhead), as it’s probably the most undercover of all the restaurants on this list. But the hummus is up there with the best of them. And the fact that the owner has the attitude that if the hummus runs out early he’s not going to make any more, makes the place even more endearing! No thrills, no extras, but great hummus and felafel. The place closes at 1pm, but the hummus often runs out before then, so get your skates on!

Hummus Bahadonas

138 Bialik Street, Ramat Gan

Another long termer, this place at one of the busiest junctions near Tel Aviv has been serving up hummus with lots of garlic, lemon and parsley for some 20 years! A hard boiled egg is no problem, and they even serve up a salad for those who don’t enjoy their hummus “straight”. Kosher (but without certification). Telephone: 03-7528074

Pinati

13 King George Street, Jerusalem

One of the Holy City’s secret tourist attractions, this Kosher hummus joint has been up and running for close to 40 years. Apart from the usual hummus, you can also enjoy some Kubeh soup (special dumpling-like morsels), giving it the feel of a “worker’s restaurant” rather than specializing in hummus only. Definitely worth a stopover when visiting the sites of Jerusalem and you’re not in the need for something fancy. Telephone: 02-6254540

HaHalil (The Flute)

6 Kehilat Detroit, Ramle

One of the most famous hummus restaurants in Israel, this place has some mighty fine hummus, and unlike many of the Arab hummus joints listed here, has no problem serving up a hard boiled egg alongside your hummus. Definitely not in line for interior design awards, the warm and friendly service more than makes up for it. Telephone: 08-9222284

Hummus Lina

Old City, Jerusalem (next to the Via Dolorasa)

This small family run hummus restaurant is an awesome place to sit back and take a break in, while soaking up some of the amazing Old City atmosphere in the Christian Quarter. Regular no thrills hummus for you here, but with great, efficient service during those peak hours. Telephone: 02-6277320

The New Abu Gosh

65 Derekh HaShalom, Abu Gosh

Not a classic hummus joint as we know it, but this place is one of Abu Gosh’s finest (Abu Gosh is just outside Jerusalem and renowned as a place to eat at the weekend). Not only can you dig in to some hummus, but also enjoy some great salads, barbecued meat, and fish. Telephone: 02-5332019

Sushi restaurants have sprung up like Shiitake mushrooms all over Jerusalem within the past few years, and Jerusalemites and exploring tourists are more than happy to see that their love of sushi can be quenched in the capital.

If you’re heading to, or currently in Tel Aviv you should definitely check out our guide to the best sushi resturants in Tel Aviv.

So let’s sashay to the sushi! Here’s our guide to the best sushi restaurants in Jerusalem:

Sakura

Sakura is one of the original sushi restaurants in Jerusalem, hidden away down a Jerusalem sidestreet off Jaffa Street. This is not the cheapest deal in town, however, it is among the very best for original Japanese cuisine anywhere in Israel (they also have a branch in Tel Aviv). There are an overwhelming number of choices on the menu, but the sushi swims on top, so to speak. Business lunch is a good choice and well priced, and there are even Japanese cooking workshops held, which end with a mouthwatering meal. Service has been highly praised by many online reviewers. Originally Kosher, but not any more.

Address: Jaffa Street 31
Opening hours: every day, from 12:00 to midnight
Telephone: 02-6235464

Sushi Rechavia

You could enjoy Sushi Rechavia’s speciality - hand-rollled temaki - three times in a single day without having to retrace your steps: in addition to its main branch in Azza Road, the sushi specialist also operates in Rechavia on HaPalmach Street, and in the German Colony on Emek Refaim.

In addition to the traditional sushi, maki and friends, Sushi Rechavia is also popular for its noodle dishes and soups. Other offerings include chicken and salmon. The lunch menu is good value and features several choices to suit all; but you can also get a take-away or have the delicacies delivered to your door. A big plus for those who keep Kosher is that all three branches are Kosher/Rabbinate. We’d recommend calling each branch for its opening hours, as they do vary.

Address: Azza St. Branch – Azza St. 29 (Telephone: 02-5667477)
Address: Palmach St. Branch – Palmach St. 51 (Telephone: 02-5671791)
Address: Emek Refaim St. Branch – Emek Refaim St. 29 (Telephone: 02-563777)

RYU

“RYU” is trendy, Kosher LeMehadrin, and offers a wide choice of meat dishes in addition to very creative and innovative Japanese cuisine with a Mediterranean touch. What more could you possibly want? Even the name, RYU, is a fusion: RYU is Japanese for “dragon” as well as a Kabbalah term.

The contemporary style restaurant sits in a historic building and offers the choice between an indoor area and a large garden patio, from where you can watch the town go by on the busy street below.

Address: 25 Emek Refaim
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 12:00- 24:00; Saturday one hour after Sabbath to 01:00
Telephone: 057-9438863

Japanika

This hip and happening – meaning you’ll have a range of techno and pop beats to accompany your meal – restaurant, located a short walk from the Old City, is part of a popular Tel Aviv chain, and what often goes in Tel Aviv, will be a certain hit in Jerusalem! Already noted as one of the best Kosher sushi spots in town, the colourful and flavoursome dishes go down so well with the locals that there are occasional queues at peak times.

Meals feature numerous varieties of sushi and combos, you can also choose to mix your own favourites for a self-designed speciality.

Address: Shlomtzion HaMalkah 1 City Center
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 11:00 to last customer; Friday 11:00 until 2 hours before Sundown; Saturday night one hour after sundown until last customer.
Telephone: 02-6247530

Taiku

Taiku is another newish sushi restaurant which has fishtailed its way into the hearts and pallets of many. The classy and elegant atmosphere keeps up its appearance all the way through the varied Kosher menu, which includes such house specialties as the Mediterranean Roll and Denis with olive tapenade, basil and cucumber. Vegetarians also get their fill, and for something out of the ordinary try the Taiku Vegetarian Maki.

On Wednesdays and Fridays, Taiku also offers an all-you-can-eat sushi special.

Address: 31 Emek Refaim, Jerusalem
Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 noon – 11:00 pm. Saturday night 7:00pm – 11pm
Telephone: Tel: 02-5665262

The fish restaurant side of the business (the trout is especially renowned) is what most visitors come for, but there’s also pasta and other goodies on the main menu, plus a variety of great desserts. The wife was slightly disappointed with her fish to be honest (she’s been spoilt with too much Tel Aviv fine dining!), but the salads were plentiful and fresh and the service was pretty good.

The best thing about this place in my opinion is the setting. There aren’t many restaurants in Israel where you’re sat right alongside a trickling river, with swans and ducks aplenty. Definitely a great place to take young kids, my three couldn’t sit still after eating their meals and wanted to explore every nook and cranny. The adjoining fish farm is also great for the kids, where they get to see pools teeming with various-sized fish. Just don’t tell ‘em they’re somebody’s lunch tomorrow…

The Dag al HaDan is located at the point where the Hatzbani River meets the Dan River in the far north of Israel, in the Upper Galilee. So not a quick drive up from Tel Aviv for a night out at a country fish restaurant…I’d only recommend this place if you’re up in the north of Israel for a couple of days at least.

And with a nice little camping site and kayaking courses down the Hatzbani River, you could easily be tempted to spend a day or two here…

How to get there: Easier said than done!  Watch out for the sign in English on Road 99 between Kiryat Shmona and the entrance to Tel Dan Nature Preserve. And make the most of that sign because it’s the last one in English! There’s only a couple of turns to make so you should be OK, but still…

Telephone: 04-6950225 (Give them a call, they have a few packages available that might just tempt you to stay up north longer!)

You can check out Dag al HaDan’s website, in English, here: www.dagaldan.co.il/?p=english

Now celebrating it’s 15th year (wow, I remember going to the very first one!), Ta’am Ha’ir kicks off tomorrow evening (13th June) and lasts til Thursday night (the 16th). The action starts at 18:00 each evening, and lasts til the last belly is full…or the last morsel has been wolfed down.

Tel Aviv’s best restaurants (see our guides to the ten most awesome Tel Aviv restaurants and the very best restaurants, cafes and bars of 2010) and wineries will have samples of their best dishes and drinks on offer, all at special prices (the average dish will be something like 30-35 shekels!).

It’s a great night out, with lots of people, lots of food, live bands, celebrity Israeli chefs plying their trade, and even workshops for kids. And all mixed up with a heavy dose of summertime vibes…

Here’s a taste of what Ta’am Ha’ir is all about…yummy!!

Click here to view the embedded video.

This guide has since been updated for 2011, click here to read more.

The list includes the main players in the annual vote for the best of Tel Aviv eateries held by Time Out (they list theirs in Hebrew, we’ve brought it to you in the Queen’s English).

Without further ado, let’s tuck in…

Restaurant of the Year 2010 – Herbert Samuel, Koifman 6 (Tel: 03-5166516). Seasonal and local produce crafted into delicious meals by the very talented chef Jonatan Roshfeld. Expensive.

Fanciest Restaurant of 2010 – Citit, Hichal HaTalmud 4, Neve Tzedek (Tel: 03-5107001). Rich in fresh ingredients like lamb, beef and fish, enhanced with local vegetables, fruit, herbs and spices. Kiss goodbye to around 400 shekels per person, minimum. Pic on the right.

Best New Restaurant 2010 – Ehad Ha’am Tapas, Ehad Ha’am 27 (Tel: 03-5666966). This new Tapas restaurant, again managed by Jonatan Roshfeld, has put existing Tapas bars in town to shame…

Bar with the Best Food 2010 – Messa, Ha’arba’ah 19 (Tel: 03-6856859). A creative menu backed by a very well-stocked and cool bar. Great design (see pic on the left), well worth spending some time here.

Best Italian Restaurant 2010 – Mel and Michelle, Ben Yehuda 155 (Tel: 03-5293232). A cute little corner in the heart and bustle of Tel Aviv. Nicely styled place, with a romantic feel.

Best Meat Restaurant 2010 – Yoezer Wine Bar, located in the picturesque alleys of Old Jaffa (Tel: 03-6839115), this place has plenty of character, and plenty of pricey food/wines.

Best Asian Restaurant 2010 – Beit Thailandi, Bograshov 8 (Tel: 03-5178568). This is your destination for authentic Thai food that hasn’t been watered down for Western palates.

Best Seafood Restaurant 2010 AND Best Restaurant by the Sea 2010 – Manta Ray, Alma Beach (Tel: 03-5174773). The restaurant with the killer location, that’s how we reviewed it last year. And it hasn’t changed. Great, cool place, great food, awesome view.

Best Tapas Restaurant 2010 – Tapeo, Ha’arba’ah 16 (Tel: 03-6240484). One of the original tapas bars in town, this place has a great range of those small, tasty dishes and a great atmosphere, even in mid-week.

Best Bistro 2010 – Brasserie, Ibn Gvirol 70 (Tel: 03-6967111). A classy joint with a menu that changes three times a day. Some say it has redefined the Tel Aviv culinary scene.

Best Kosher Restaurant 2010 – Liliot (or Lilit), Dafna 2 (Tel: 03-6965658). One of the few truly tasty kosher restaurants in Tel Aviv that has been around for years, this place has a large, varied menu and is also very nicely designed.

Best Ethnic Restaurant 2010 – Edna, Yermiyahu 52 (Tel: 03-6289000). After many years in Ramat HaSharon, they opened a branch in Tel Aviv this year. Great, unpretentious home cooking in a cosy atmosphere.

Best Health/Natural/Vegetarian Restaurant 2010 – 24 Rupee, Shocken 14 (Tel: 03-6818066). This cute Indian restaurant has some great, cheap curry dishes.

Best “Value for Money” Restaurant 2010 – Segev Express, HaBarzel 38 (Tel: 077-4142025). Fast, stylish food that won’t disappoint.

Best Restaurant Chain 2010 – Giraffe, Ibn Gvirol 49 (Tel: 03-6916303). The original branch is still the one to beat, with other branches throughout Tel Aviv and the rest of Israel. But if you come across one, know you’ll get a large-sized portion of Asian-fusion style food. Very tasty.

Best Sandwich Bar 2010 – Ruben, Yehuda HaLevi 112 (Tel: 077-4908050). A sandwich bar on a par with the best of Europe. Try those juicy cuts of beef or turkey placed intricately between slices of fresh brown bread. Delish.

Best Child-Friendly Restaurant 2010 – Moses, Rothschild 35 (Tel: 03-5664949). Good menu, plus loads of activities (and food!) for the kids, including stickers and drawing books.

Best Pizzeria 2010 – Tony Vespa, Rothschild 142 (Tel: 03-6858888). Rule breaker that sells pizza by weight, rather than by slice. Delish pizza that has taken Tel Aviv by storm.

Best Hamburger Bar 2010 – Agadir, HaTaarucha 3 (Tel: 03-5444045). The original hamburger joint in town that started 15 years ago, now has 6 branches. Delish hamburgers and a funky atmosphere.

Best Ice-Cream Bar 2010 – Anita, made up of three successful branches in Florentine and Neve Tzedek (Tel: 03-5170505 for the Shabazi branch in Neve Tzedek). Great, great ice-cream, especially buzzing on hot, summer days.

Best Hummus Bar 2010 – Ali Caravan/Abu Hassan, Shvatay Israel 14 (Tel: 03-6828355). The long legendary hummus joint, for hard core hummus addicts only (beginners might find it a bit “sloppy”).

Best Cafe 2010 – HaTachtit (The Basement), Lincoln 9 (Tel: 03-5618759). Open 24 hours, this place has fast become known for its vibe (usually great music), its food and its service. Not exactly on the regular tourist route, but worth a visit.

Restaurant with the Most Happening Vibe 2010 – Nanuchka, Lilenblum 30 (Tel: 03-5162254). Georgian cuisine, with plenty of good tunes and ambiance, at first glance it might not seem like the coolest place in town but it’s definitely one of the most popular, and is always fun to visit (check out the entrance in the pic on the left).

Best Restaurant for Taking a Date 2010 – Nana Bar, Ehad Ha’am 1 (Tel: 03-5161915). Stylish and cool bar but this is the place you should try if you’re looking for a quiet romantic corner with a loved one (or potential loved one!).

Best Wine Bar 2010 – HaBasta, HaShomer 4 (Tel: 03-5169234). Around for 3 years, this place has a huge wine menu, mainly focused on Italian and French wines. And yes, the food is great too.

Best Bar in Tel Aviv 2010 – Porter & Sons, Ha’arba’ah 14 (Tel: 03-6244355). With over 50 kinds of beer on tap (pic on the left) and 70 kinds of bottled beer, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better-stocked bar in the Middle East.

Best Bakery 2010 – Dalal Bakery, Shebazi 10 (Tel: 03-5109292). Great location (Neve Tzedek ‘hood) – try those tasty muffins and some of the finest bread in Tel Aviv. They also do a mighty fine breakfast.

Best Deli 2010 – Hinawi, Yeffet 180, Yafo (Tel: 03-5075618). Long run family business that has probably become the most popular deli in Tel Aviv.

Best Breakfast 2010 – Benedict, Ben Yehuda 117 (Tel: 03-5440345). Now three branches strong, Benedict has a storming 24-hour breakfast menu. We reviewed it here, and can’t wait to revisit!

Best Late Night Meal 2010 – Dixie, Yigal Allon 120 (Tel: 03-6966123). Long established as one of the best late night eateries for those in need of some late (early?) munchies. Renowned for burgers and wings.

Restaurant with the Best Bar 2010 – Social Club, Rothschild 45 (Tel: 03-5601114). A modern bistro owned by one of Israel’s main restaurateurs in the heart of Tel Aviv, with a bar that is always packed and always happening. Lots of cocktails and a great wine list.

Located on the cool (though perhaps not quite as cool as it once was) Bograshov Street, you’ll find Moon to have that certain Tel Aviv style – young, chic, happening – while not quite adhering to the standard Tel Aviv restaurant vibe. There’s plenty of young, good-looking Tel Avivians to mix it with as you wait for the sushi to whir by you on the conveyor belt (the different color plates signify different prices), though perhaps more importantly, you won’t break the bank in a visit here.

Moon has the sushi, but not the prices of more expensive sushi restaurants in Tel Aviv (such as Yakimono). You could probably eat very well at Moon for a small 60 shekels. The sushi is also very fresh while being fairly generous in their portions. Watch out for dishes like Black Mamba (salmon wrapped around tiny balls of rice, with red tuna on top), or the shrimp tempura with goose liver…Oh crikey…

Things can get busy at Moon. Tel Aviv restaurants often have a line to get in, and you can often wait for quite a bit in busy times. But the wait should be worth it…

Moon, Tel Aviv

Address: Bograshov 58, Tel Aviv
Phone: 03-6291155, 03-5686818
Opening hours: Sunday to Friday noon-12:30 AM Saturday: 7:00 PM-12:30 AM

Mel and Michelle, Tel Aviv

A great little Italian restaurant on Ben Yehuda street, this place might surprise you with its intimacy. With a small bar to get you in the mood, this place reeks of a superb, yet authentic atmosphere. Tel Aviv Pasta at its best! Not too cheap: a couple can end up splashing out 400 shekels very easily…
Address: 155 Ben Yehuda Street, Tel Aviv
Telephone: 057-4449999

Delal, Tel Aviv

Located in perhaps the most enchanting neighborhood of all Tel Aviv, Delal consists of not just a superbly romantic restaurant/bistro (mostly Mediterranean cuisine), but also a great little bakery. Step into the back courtyard to get cosy and romantic…for an average of around 300 shekels per couple.
Address: 10 Shabazi Street, Tel Aviv
Telephone: 03-5109292

Adora, Tel Aviv

Again we hit the streets of Ben Yehuda for yet another bistro restaurant with a great, romantic atmosphere. The simple things here are done perfectly, from the white napkins to the wine glasses. Not much change from 350 shekels for a couple unfortunately, but one of the most romantic places to eat in Tel Aviv.
Address: 226 Ben Yehuda Street, Tel Aviv
Telephone: 03-6050896

Shelo BeYaar, Kiryat Tivon

On the road between Haifa and Nazareth you can find some romance at Shelo BeYaar, which is located in the town of Kiryat Tivon. This is an authentic French restaurant in the middle of a forest, with a great menu, and a burning fireplace in the middle of the restaurant. What more could you ask for? Great value at 250 shekels for a couple.
Address: 1 HaShomrim, Kiryat Tivon
Telephone: 04-9831837

Bet Shalom, Metulla

If you’re up in the northern region of Israel and fancy a drive up to the far northern tip, head for Bet Shalom in Metulla. There awaits a fine dairy-vegetarian restaurant in a great restored little place (the complex includes a boutique hotel), complete with twinkling pianos on the weekend and a roaring log fire. Prepare to part from 250-300 shekels if you’re wining and dining as a couple.
Address: 28 HaRishonim, Metulla
Telephone: 04-6940767

Shiri Bistro, Rosh Pina

If you’re in the north, head for the small town of Rosh Pina. You will be charmed (as was Madonna a couple of years back!), and charmed further if you head for Shiri Bistro, a cute little French restaurant with amazing views out over the Hula Valley and the Golan Heights. It gets even more romantic if there’s snow (even rain!)…Expect to part with between 200-250 shekels per couple.
Address: 8 HaHalutzim, Rosh Pina
Telephone: 04-6937028

Witches Casserole and The Milkman, Golan Heights

Oh yes, a fine name for a cute little restaurant, up on Nimrod River in the Golan, overlooking Hula Valley, the Lebanese mountains and the northern Golan. The witch casseroles (salmon cuts, veal cuts, plus the house Lamb Casserole) make up a big part of the menu, accompanied by a variety of local cheeses and wines. Around 250-300 shekels should see some romance sparkle…
Address: Nimrod, Golan Heights
Telephone: 04-6870049

Kucha, Golan Heights

No question about it, it doesn’t get more romantic than a cold, snowy night in the Golan Heights, with a hearty fire raging in a cosy little restaurant. Kucha is another great little find, and as it also has an adjoining guest house, you could just stop over after pigging out on some romance (or authentic Serbian cuisine). Not cheap: 350 shekels for a couple, plus, of course the guest house charge…
Address: Moshav Sha’al, Golan Heights
Telephone: 04-6984618

Zuni, Jerusalem

Most Jerusalemites will know of Zuni’s legendary balcony tables, the ones that are almost always taken, 24 hours a day. A great little place for some romance, plus some great fillet steak in brandy (if you’re coming for breakfast then try the English breakfast). Not too pricey, a couple will be able to romance themselves for 260 shekels.
Address: 15 Salomon, Jerusalem
Telephone: 02-6257776

Cavalier, Jerusalem

The Cavalier in Jerusalem is a charming little French restaurant, with lots of cute little round tables, just for two. A nice little atmosphere here too, typical of a cosy night out in Jerusalem. Probably the most expensive of all the restaurants in this list, expect to spend around 500 shekels for a slice of romance.
Address: 1 Ben Sira, Jerusalem
Telephone: 057-9442899