Unveiling the Top 6 Restaurants in Israel
Israel offers a diverse culinary scene that merges traditional Middle Eastern flavors with international influences. The country is the home of exceptional dining establishments that showcase the best of Israeli cuisine.
It’s no wonder that six Israeli restaurants were included in the first-ever list of the 50 best food destinations in the Middle East and North Africa. The highest-ranking Israeli restaurant was George & John in Tel Aviv, which ranked sixth on the list.
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The evening, hosted by Egyptian-Australian presenter and entrepreneur Shereen Mitwalli, had regional and international chefs, restaurateurs, food critics and other culinary experts raising a glass to the best in the business at the glittering event. Held at the Conrad Abu Dhabi, Etihad Towers, restaurants from 14 Middle Eastern and North African cities were named as the 50 best dining establishments in the region.
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The Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants event program, including the awards ceremony and unveiling of the list, provided a unique opportunity for chefs, gourmets and food and travel media from all over the region to gather and celebrate food and hospitality while also promoting the culinary strength and diversity of the region to a global audience.
Of the six spots in Israel that made the cut, five of them are located in the coastal city of Tel Aviv, with two in the top 10:
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(#3) OCD Restaurant - Tel Aviv, Israel
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(#9) George & John - Tel Aviv, Israel
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(#14) HaBasta - Tel Aviv, Israel
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(#17) Animar - Tel Aviv, Israel
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(#24) Pescado - Ashdod, Israel
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(#40) Milgo & Milbar - Tel Aviv, Israel
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“To receive international recognition for our hard work is important for me and my team just as much as it is seeing people smile while eating our food. It’s also a great honor to represent Israel.” George & John’s chef Tomer Tal told the Haaretz daily.
Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Israel?
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Unfortunately, there are no Michelin-starred restaurants in Israel at the moment. However, it has been said by the government that a deal with Michelin inspectors is about to be signed. Such agreement (if signed) is expected to cost $1.6 million.
Michelin inspectors have said that currently they see “feasibility” only in evaluating Tel Aviv’s restaurant scene, and will therefore work with the Tel Aviv municipality. Meanwhile, the ministry will work on the potential of expanding the coverage to other cities in the future, he said.