What Food To Try in Eilat and Food Prices
How much does lunch and dinner cost
Examples of food prices, cafes, street food and other dining options in Eilat for 2024.
National currency: New Israeli Sheqel, symbol — ₪ (international currency code ILS).
General Cafe Price Guide
Average prices in Eilat cafes and restaurants
$15.9
Quick Lunch for One
Starting from $7.24
$58
Dinner for Two
to celebrate your trip
Starting from $34.77
$14.2
Combo Meal
Starting from $11.59
What to Try in Eilat
Must-try Dishes
Shakshuka - Shakshuka (spicy tomato eggs) - Poached eggs in a rich, spiced tomato, pepper, and onion sauce. It's a regular breakfast choice enjoyed with crusty bread at local cafés, where friends gather to start their day.Falafel - Falafel (chickpea patties) - Crispy chickpea balls served in pita with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. Street vendors set up their stands during the afternoon rush, and locals often grab a quick bite after work.
Jachnun - Jachnun (sweet dough roll) - A slow-cooked pastry made from rolled dough, usually served with a hard-boiled egg and spicy tomato sauce. It's a popular Saturday breakfast dish shared among families, making it a must-try local tradition.
Hummus - Hummus (creamy chickpea dip) - Silky smooth chickpea dip drizzled with olive oil and served with fresh pita bread. Locals love to order it as part of a mezze spread during lunch, often accompanied by pickles for a refreshing crunch.
Meaty Shawarma - Shawarma (spiced meat wrap) - Thinly sliced marinated meat, typically chicken or lamb, wrapped in pita with garlic sauce and fresh veggies. It's common to see locals queuing up at late-night vendors; the mix of flavors hits the spot.
Sabich - Sabich (pita sandwich) - A hearty sandwich filled with fried eggplant, hard-boiled egg, hummus, and various toppings like amba (mango pickles). Locals enjoy it for lunch or as a snack on weekends, often customizing their fillings.
Matbucha - Matbucha (spicy tomato salad) - A fresh salad made of stewed tomatoes and peppers, typically served as a side. Locals usually eat this during the summer months, enhancing BBQs with its zesty kick alongside grilled meats.
Pargiot - Pargiot (grilled chicken thigh) - Marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, often served with rice or vegetables. Commonly enjoyed for dinner, it symbolizes the communal experience of family gatherings where everyone shares the feast.
Desserts & Drinks
Cold Brew Coffee - קפה קר (iced coffee) - A refreshing blend of strong coffee brewed cold and served over ice, often sweetened with milk or a flavored syrup. Locals usually enjoy it in the coastal sun, especially during the sweltering summer months, often accompanied by a pastry from nearby cafes. Tamarind Juice - מיץ תמרהינדי (sweet-sour fruit drink) - A tangy beverage made from tamarind pulp mixed with water and sugar, served chilled for a burst of flavor. You’ll find it at beachside stalls, particularly during the hot afternoons when people flock to the shoreline to cool down.
Boozy Date Shake - שייק תמרים (sweet date milkshake) - A creamy shake that combines fresh dates, milk, and often a splash of whiskey or rum for an adult twist. It’s typically enjoyed during festive gatherings or casual nights out, and locals love to order it when they want something sweet yet potent.
Knafeh - קנאפה (cheese pastry dessert) - This warm dessert features shredded phyllo dough layered over gooey cheese, soaked in syrup and sometimes topped with crushed pistachios. Often shared during celebrations or family gatherings, make sure to order it fresh and hot from local bakeries for the best experience.
Rugelach - רוגלך (pastry rolls) - These delightful crescent-shaped pastries are filled with nuts, chocolate, or fruit jam, baked to perfection. Locals often indulge in them during holidays or coffee breaks, and by the way, don’t be surprised to see them paired with your morning coffee for a little indulgence!
Food and Groceries in Eilat
Vegetables, Fruits and Bread
| Bread | $1.76 |
| Oranges | $1.74 |
| Potatoes | $1.26 |
| Apples | $2.99 |
Beverages
| Water 1.5L | $1.11 |
| 0.5L Local Beer | $2.13 |
| Imported Beer | $3.19 |
| Wine Rating >4.0 | $10.87 |
Various Groceries
| Chicken | $10.55 |
| Rice | $2.32 |
| Local Cheese | $11.78 |
Overview of Cuisine and Specialties
The sun had just dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the sea, and families filled the beachfront promenade, dining on fresh seafood from the local vendors. It's a common scene in Eilat, where meal times often stretch well into the evening. Unlike other regions where dinner might be a rushed affair, here, locals savor the experience, often dining out around 8 PM or even later.
Price-wise, the dining landscape in Eilat can be surprising. Just yesterday, I indulged in a plate of grilled octopus for ₪95, paired with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. While that may seem a bit pricey for a casual meal, it’s worth noting that a similar plate in the nearby city center could easily hit ₪130. This variance is partly due to location—places close to the water tend to charge a premium, especially during high tourist season. A pocket-friendly option, though, can be found at the bustling local markets; street food here usually hovers around ₪30- ₪50, serving you fresh falafel or shawarma that rivals pricier sit-down meals.
Oh, and before I forget, the payment customs are quite straightforward. Cash is still king here, but many places do accept cards. Just remember to have some cash for those charming little stalls that pop up along the promenade. Tipping is generally around 10-15%, and it’s appreciated here, especially if the service is warm and welcoming.
An authentic local eating habit you’ll find is how Eilatis often share dishes; it’s not uncommon to order several plates to enjoy among friends or family. This communal style enriches the dining experience and allows for more culinary exploration. Just watch out for that classic tourist mistake of avoiding the off-the-beaten-path eateries. Some of the best meals come from cozy spots that might not have the flashiest signs.
For a worthwhile reservation tip, especially during peak times, book ahead for any popular waterfront restaurants. The view is often just as integral to the experience as the food itself. You’d be surprised how quickly tables fill up when the sun starts setting.
Interestingly, as summer peters out, dining patterns shift. You'll see a notable drop in the crowd at popular dining spots, allowing for a more relaxed meal. Discerning locals take this opportunity to explore those beachside eateries that tend to be bustling in the prime tourist months.
Eilat’s food scene is alive with character, reflecting the vibrant culture of the city while continuing to evolve as new faces and flavors enter the mix. The marriage of local customs and the influx of international tastes creates a rich tapestry that keeps both residents and visitors coming back for more.
Price-wise, the dining landscape in Eilat can be surprising. Just yesterday, I indulged in a plate of grilled octopus for ₪95, paired with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. While that may seem a bit pricey for a casual meal, it’s worth noting that a similar plate in the nearby city center could easily hit ₪130. This variance is partly due to location—places close to the water tend to charge a premium, especially during high tourist season. A pocket-friendly option, though, can be found at the bustling local markets; street food here usually hovers around ₪30- ₪50, serving you fresh falafel or shawarma that rivals pricier sit-down meals.
Oh, and before I forget, the payment customs are quite straightforward. Cash is still king here, but many places do accept cards. Just remember to have some cash for those charming little stalls that pop up along the promenade. Tipping is generally around 10-15%, and it’s appreciated here, especially if the service is warm and welcoming.
An authentic local eating habit you’ll find is how Eilatis often share dishes; it’s not uncommon to order several plates to enjoy among friends or family. This communal style enriches the dining experience and allows for more culinary exploration. Just watch out for that classic tourist mistake of avoiding the off-the-beaten-path eateries. Some of the best meals come from cozy spots that might not have the flashiest signs.
For a worthwhile reservation tip, especially during peak times, book ahead for any popular waterfront restaurants. The view is often just as integral to the experience as the food itself. You’d be surprised how quickly tables fill up when the sun starts setting.
Interestingly, as summer peters out, dining patterns shift. You'll see a notable drop in the crowd at popular dining spots, allowing for a more relaxed meal. Discerning locals take this opportunity to explore those beachside eateries that tend to be bustling in the prime tourist months.
Eilat’s food scene is alive with character, reflecting the vibrant culture of the city while continuing to evolve as new faces and flavors enter the mix. The marriage of local customs and the influx of international tastes creates a rich tapestry that keeps both residents and visitors coming back for more.