Best Restaurants in Tel Aviv of 2026

Tel Aviv is certainly no stranger to fine cuisine. This city has been at the forefront of Israeli cooking for decades with a continuous influx of the nation’s most innovative chefs and restaurants. This year promises fresher menus with creative dishes and savory meals so memorable, you’ll keep coming back for more. In Israel, we keep things seasonal, promising flavors of the highest quality and magical experiences that cater to every foodie. From award-winning establishments to new vegan pop-ups, these Tel Aviv eateries will take you on a tasting journey of a lifetime. See below for our carefully crafted list of the very best restaurants in Tel Aviv.

Mashya

Treat yourself to an experience of the senses. At Mashya, you’ll sample a slew of flavors, from lamb knafeh and slow-cooked oxtail to ricotta parmesan dumplings. Mashya has been a Tel Aviv favorite for a number of years now. Located in the Mendeli Street Hotel, this contemporary restaurant was recently rewarded with a new chef, Nir Masika. Over the last few years, Nir ran ‘Timna’, one of the hottest Israeli restaurants in New York. Come to Mashya and satisfy every one of your cravings.

Mendele Mokher Sfarim St 5, Tel Aviv-Yafo

OCD

Be sure to come to OCD with a hearty appetite. The dishes served up at this open-concept restaurant will delight your taste buds like no other. OCD presents guests with an artistic food experience of up to 16 courses, delivering high-quality flavors with every bite. Each plate is composed of special ingredients based on seasonal selections. Embark on an enriching journey with Chef Raz Rahav, the master behind the creative dish series. It is best to plan and reserve in advance, as seating is limited. Consider joining our enriching Best of Tel Aviv, Jaffa & Carmel Market Day Tour once you’ve already enriched your palate; discover great sights of the city as well.

Tirtsa St 17, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Katzir

If you want a night of upscale dining, premium ingredients, and dishes that actually live up to the hype, Katzir is your spot. Walking in, the place feels like a chic hideaway tucked right behind the buzz of the Tel Aviv promenade, offering an instant sense of calm and luxury.

Service in Israel can be hit-or-miss, but Katzir is on another level entirely. Think international-grade professionalism paired with vibrant, modern Middle Eastern cuisine. Their steaks? Absolutely outstanding. Every bite is juicy, expertly cooked, and full of flavor.

But honestly, it was the starters that blew us away. The Lion’s Mane, the Lubya, and the Head & Tail Ragu were beyond exceptional-creative, memorable dishes that had us practically fighting over the last bites and wondering how we’d make space for the steak extravaganza. With delicious cocktails and desserts that complete the experience, Katzir easily earns a 10/10 rating in our book. Don’t wait-book your table and thank us later.

HaYarkon St 51, Tel Aviv-Yafo, 6343203

Emesh

Rated #1 Tel Aviv restaurant on TripAdvisor, Emesh is a haven of distinct flavors, catering to all occasions. From parties to simple dining experiences, this eatery has got it all. Come revel in the vibrant energy and unwind in the beautiful space of lush greenery and fine cuisine. Experience the iconic beer garden and feel the decade-long legacy through delectable food & drink. Indulge your taste buds with dishes of all varieties: spicy labneh, beef carpaccio, fish tacos, and parmesan polenta. Paired with a fine red or white wine in hand, your Emesh meal will meet every expectation and more.

Lilienblum Street 30, Tel Aviv-Yafo

OPA

For all you vegan foodies, OPA is the place to be! Serving up some of the most innovative dishes, this stunning space is sure to impress. With modest and thoughtful pairings made from some of the freshest ingredients, OPA’s creations will not disappoint. The eatery turns simple tastes into upscale flavors and ensures there’s something even non-vegan diners will enjoy. Come to this Tel Aviv gem and experience plant-based cuisine in a whole new way.

Ha-Khalutzim St 8, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Night Kitchen

For an evening of delightful tastes in a spectacular ambiance, you absolutely need to visit Night Kitchen. At Tel Aviv’s top-rated seafood restaurant boasting the freshest picks, you will sample some excellent flavors, like tabon white fish, salmon ceviche, and even fish shawarma for a surprising take on the Middle Eastern classic. The restaurant’s logo - an owl perched on a fork - represents its nightly atmosphere and the interior layout promises a vibrant, yet comfortable experience in the White City.

Lilenblum Street 20, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Thai House

Thai House - or known in Hebrew as ‘Bait Thailandi’ - is consistently rated as one of the best restaurants in the White City. Located just one short block from the beach, you will be guaranteed freshness with every bite. Introduce your senses to a world of brimming flavors, from exquisite noodle dishes and curry stir-fries, to papaya salads and exotic cocktails. Let your gastronomic journey begin here, with authentic food, superb staff, and the Mediterranean Sea only moments away.

Bograshov St 8, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Claro

Discover the rustic ambiance of Claro, one of the most exquisite restaurants located in the heart of Tel Aviv. Nestled in the restored Templar German Colony, Claro promises an out-of-this-world experience, from their renowned steaks to their heavenly desserts. The moment you step inside, you’ll notice why this eatery stands out from the rest. The mood lighting contributes to a romantic atmosphere and the alluring scent of the evening’s specialties will entice all your senses.

Rehov Ha’arba’a 23, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Nini Hachi

Kosher foodies will take great delight in the fact that Nini Hachi - a Japanese restaurant serving up some of the most delectable sushi - caters to a kosher crowd. With gyoza, tataki, fillets of multiple varieties, and freshly handmade rolls, you can’t go wrong with Nini Hachi. Discover the perfect balance of velvety sashimi slices and spicy yellowtail, washed down with sake of your choice. A pregnancy-safe sushi menu is also available, providing vegetable platters and cooked fish options for a stress-free experience.

Ben Yehuda 228, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Popina

Another great fine dining experience is an evening at Popina. Located in the charming and whimsical neighborhood of Neve Tzedek, this breathtaking eatery is pleasing to the eye as well as the palate. The staff strives to entertain visitors through food, presenting a new style of dining with a categorized menu. These specialties include: pickling, steaming, baking, roasting, and slow-cooking. Don’t miss out on the shrimp burger (pictured above) - an absolute must-try - and sample the extraordinary take on the ordinary corn dog.

Ahad Ha’Am St 3, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Dallal Restaurant

Dallal Restaurant is an iconic spot tucked away in Neve Tzedek, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Tel Aviv. This beautiful space focuses on European cuisine using fresh seasonal ingredients and serving up the best service. Guests can enjoy sophisticated dishes coupled with laid-back charm and elegance. Alternatively, there are other grab-and-go options from the Dallal franchise, such as a bakery and cafe, providing visitors with incredible coffee and sweets. Afterward, explore nearby Jaffa with our Jaffa Half-Day Tour to discover fascinating sites.

Shabazi St 10, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Ha’achim

Ha’achim - also known as ‘The Brothers’ - is a cool dine-in restaurant which launched over a decade ago by two brothers; Assaf and Yotam. The concept at Ha’achim is simple; good food that doesn’t compromise on great flavor. Though the vision behind this eatery is to engage in a shared eating experience between friends and family, solo diners shouldn’t shy away. The menu focuses on traditional Israeli dishes - cooked on a charcoal grill - and drinks that are whipped up to excellence. This hotspot often has a DJ spinning some sweet sounds lending to a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a Friday brunch; come with a hearty appetite.

Shlomo Ibn Gabirol St 26, Tel Aviv

Port Said

Follow the taste buds of celebrity chef Eyal Shani at the iconic restaurant, Port Said. With vinyl-lined walls and a daily-changing menu, diners can expect the unexpected with this unique culinary approach. The food here offers a contemporary twist on authentic Israeli dishes, with bold cocktails to boot. As the sun sets, expect the DJ to liven the place up with eclectic tunes. Port Said is extremely popular among locals and tourists alike. Since reservations aren’t an option - as the restaurant abides to a first-come-first-serve basis - come early or be prepared to wait for a table. We promise, though, it’s worth it!

Har Sinai St 5, Tel Aviv

If your taste buds are still not satisfied, consider ordering food delivery in Tel Aviv, or take one of our exciting food tours, like our Tel Aviv & Carmel Market Tasting Tour. Also, see our Jerusalem restaurant list to find even more scrumptious options.