Enjoy Israel's Flourishing Wine Scene at These Tel Aviv Bars

Par Derriere is located in Jaffa, an ancient port city just south of Tel Aviv. With its stellar location near the popular flea market and its stylish French bohemian ambience, it is perfect for an evening drink or a weekend brunch (Friday and Saturday). On offer are local cheeses, meat and fish platters, salads and, of course, a huge assortment of French or Israeli wines to choose from. There is plenty of room in the lush garden in the back, making Par Derriere a good choice for a big group or a special event. As it gets busy during the weekends, booking is recommended.

One of the best happy hour deals in Tel Aviv takes place at Chateau Shual, nestled across from the central Rabin Square. Almost always crowded, it mostly attracts a younger clientele who love to enjoy the sun in the big outdoor seating area. The menu includes special wine cocktails like the rosé sangria carafe or the refreshing mix of Chardonnay and tonic water. On weekdays, between 5.30pm and 8pm, visitors can enjoy these and other alcoholic drinks at half-price. Those who do not wish to call it a night early can head to one of the many bars on Dizengoff Street, a 10-minute walk from Chateau.

Favoured by local food critics, Brut is a small wine bistro situated between two central locations: Rothschild Boulevard and Hacarmel Market. Co-owners Yair Yosefi and Omer Ben-Gal opted to create a food and wine menu that mixes Italian and French tradition with local ingredients. Those with refined taste will enjoy the ever-changing seasonal food menu of meat, fish and salads. The exceptional wine list includes wines from small-scale producers in France, as well as Israeli wine blends made exclusively for Brut. With its rustic design, which includes dimmed lights and wooden tables, it is perfect for an intimate night in Tel Aviv.

For the past seven years, El Vecino has been serving thirsty customers in a homey setting. A variety of dishes to suit different dietary needs is on offer, with the smaller dishes – the fish sashimi and the papaya salad, for example – of particular note and great fun to share. The wine cellar downstairs will accommodate a big group, while the outdoor seating area is great for a romantic lunch or dinner. After a filling meal, visitors can stroll around the nearby Hayarkon River Park to which an array of joggers, cyclists and kayak paddlers make their way every day.

A neighbourly wine bar and wine store, Juno is located at Milano Square, and perhaps in that spirit serves Italian fare, such as bruschetta, focaccia and pizza. During the day, diners can enjoy a coffee while reading a book or overlooking the square. Once the working day is done, chatty locals fill the candlelit tables and order drinks, as the happy hour runs Sunday to Thursday (5pm-8pm). Furthermore, wines from excellent local wineries such as Pelter, Bravdo, Castel and Flam can be bought in Juno by the bottle and enjoyed there or at home.