What Food To Try in Tel Aviv Yafo and Food Prices

Shakshuka - Shakshuka (spicy poached eggs) - This dish features poached eggs simmered in a savory, spiced tomato sauce with peppers and onions. A popular breakfast choice, locals often share it directly from the skillet, usually paired with warm bread.

Sabich - Sabich (pita sandwich) - A satisfying street food, Sabich is filled with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, hummus, and salad, all wrapped in a warm pita. It's often enjoyed for lunch or as a hearty snack, with tons of flavor variations at different stalls.

Shawarma - Shawarma (spiced meat wrap) - Thinly sliced spiced meat, usually lamb or chicken, wrapped in pita with tahini, pickles, and veggies. This flavorful street food is enjoyed anytime, but it’s especially popular for late-night cravings after a night out.

Matbucha - Matbucha (tomato and pepper salad) - A vibrant mix of cooked tomatoes, peppers, and spices, often served as a side with meat dishes. Locals enjoy it as part of a Friday night dinner tradition, often accompanied by fresh pita bread.

Pacha - Pacha (stuffed lamb head) - A true local specialty, this dish consists of a lamb head cooked slowly in spices and served with rice or bread. It’s a dish usually reserved for special occasions, and you’ll spot it in traditional eateries rather than modern places.

A Mediterranean Twist - Hummus with Steak - This hearty dish reimagines classic hummus by topping it with grilled steak slices, adding richness to the creamy base. Many locals enjoy it as a filling lunch, though it can surprise people who expect plain hummus.

Fresh Fish - Samak Mashwi (grilled fish) - Grilled fish, usually sea bream, marinated in spices and served with grilled vegetables, is perfect in late spring when fish is abundant. Locals flock to seaside restaurants to savor it while enjoying the ocean view.

Krem Roasted Chickpeas - Krem with Pomegranate Molasses - Creamy roasted chickpeas drizzled with tangy pomegranate molasses make a unique and flavorful main dish. This dish shines in the summer months, featuring bright tastes that locals prefer during lighter dinners.

Arabic Coffee - قهوة عربية (spiced coffee) - Strong coffee brewed with cardamom and served in small cups, often with dates on the side. Locals typically enjoy this during social visits or gatherings, making it a warm part of their hospitality.

Tamarind Juice - מיץ תמרינדי (refreshing drink) - A sweet and tangy drink made from tamarind pulp, sugar, and water, often garnished with mint. Best sipped during the sweltering summer months at beachside cafes; it’s a vibrant thirst-quencher!

Arak - ערק (anise-flavored spirit) - A traditional aniseed liquor served cold with water, turning a milky white when mixed. It’s a quintessential drink enjoyed during festive occasions and meals, often complemented by mezze. Just a heads-up: don’t expect to find it everywhere—look out for places that serve it mixed with a sense of ceremony!

Baklava - בקלוואה (layered pastry) - Delicate layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and soaked in honey syrup, it’s a sweet delight with a crunchy texture. You’ll find it lovingly prepared during holidays and family gatherings, often accompanied by Turkish coffee for a perfect pairing.

Malabi - מלעבי (rosewater pudding) - A creamy pudding flavored with rosewater and topped with a syrup of pomegranate and crushed nuts, served cold. It’s a popular dessert at family gatherings or special events; you won't be able to resist its floral notes and silky texture! By the way, try to share it—locals believe it’s best enjoyed together!