From tasty hummus, falafel and za’atar dishes to delicious salat ḥatzilim seasoned with tangy herbs and spices, restaurants in Tel Aviv offer a sumptuous variety of Jewish, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Turkish foods in elegant and friendly environments.

The Top 5

1. The Ali Karavan

With a reputation for serving the most delectable hummus in Jaffa, Tel Aviv restaurant Ali Karavan has been delighting diners for nearly 40 years and continues to be one of the city’s top restaurants. You may have to wait for a table on the weekends but when you do get a seat, make sure to order the masbacha instead of the plain hummus.

2. Manata Ray

Located near Alma Beach and boasting a charming veranda that overlooks the sea, the Manata Ray restaurant offers an excellent selection of seafood and tasty mezze, or appetizers. to start the meal. Choice of mezze include sardines, aubergine with cheese, salmon tartar and Balkan bread made from scratch.

3. The Basta

Skillfully blending French, Jewish, Italian and local cuisine with an uniquely Epicurean atmosphere, the Basta is situated in Tel Aviv’s town center and is a favorite of vegetarians and health food aficionados because of its use of raw, fresh ingredients. Diners are also treated to a nice wine bar and delicatessen-style food.

4. Cucina Tamar

Nestled in the old area of Tel Aviv, Cucina Tamar is renown for its Italian dishes, especially pasta and pizza. You can’t leave without trying the Funghi Prosciutto with mushrooms, mozzarelli and prosciutto crudo or the tagliatelle bandiera, a beetroot pasta servied with ricotta, spinach and asparagus.

5. Tapas Ahad Ha’am

One of Tel Aviv’s more glamorous restaurants, Tapas Ahad Ha’am offers patatas bravas, seafood paella and one-of-a-kind ice cream sundaes created by some of the country’s top chefs. Food is served until the wee hours of the morning but don’t forget to make reservations–you will definitely need them when dining here–even if it’s just for a seat at the bar.