The Best Restaurants Open On Shabbat In Tel Aviv

Many stores and restaurants are closed on Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest that begins at sunset on Friday and ends at nightfall on Saturday. However, Culture Trip has compiled a list of the best places that are open, ranging from high-class bistros to more casual set-ups.

1. Bana

Restaurant, Vegan

A relative newcomer to Tel Aviv’s culinary scene, this charming spot has fast established itself as one of the finest vegan restaurants in the city. A great place for a sit-down meal, Bana keeps changing its menu depending on what vegetables are in season. We recommend the cashew quiche, volcano bowl and roasted sweet potato with lentils and pistachio pesto.

2. Hamitbahon

Restaurant, Israeli, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean

Nestled within the quiet streets of Tel Aviv’s Yemenite Quarter, and right behind the busy Carmel Market, Hamitbahon catches the eye of many passersby due to its beautiful exterior, which is covered with plants and flowers. Its menu reflects the diversity of Israel’s population, offering a range of homey Jewish foods, such as Moroccan couscous with beef stew and beef kibbeh (on Tuesdays only). For a taste of real Ashkenazi cuisine, visit on a Saturday to try their delicious cholent (a traditional Jewish stew).

3. Nehama Vahetzi

Bar, Cafe, Restaurant, Israeli, Mediterranean

No restaurant encapsulates the spirit of Tel Aviv like this much-loved establishment. Centrally located just steps away from Habima Square, here, you will find a large menu with great options, from breakfast through to dinner. Their mafrum (meatballs with cauliflower), served with couscous and tomato sauce, comes highly recommended, along with the beetroot shakshuka and frittata. Open until 1 am every night, apart from Friday (when it closes at 7 pm), and with one of the nicest balconies in Tel Aviv, this is the perfect spot to people watch, drink affordable beer and soak up a truly Tel Avivi atmosphere.

5. Philippe

Restaurant, French, Italian

If all you’re craving this Shabbat is a delicious pizza, then this is the place for you. Owned by a Frenchman, the pizzas are cooked to perfection in a wood-burning stove and topped with an array of fresh ingredients and creative toppings. Whether you’re a vegetarian or in the mood for meat or fish, these gourmet pizzas are the best in the city. For those not willing to go out, Philippe will deliver piping hot pies to your doorstep.

6. Ma Pau

Restaurant, Indian

For a taste of Mumbai on Shabbat, Ma Pau is the go-to spot. Serving both Indian and Pakistani dishes with an emphasis on street food, this restaurant offers authentic flavours with its thali (a selection of small dishes and dips served with rice), chaat (savoury Indian snacks typically sold on the roadside, which include samosas, onion bhajis and pakoras) and curries. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing mango lassi.

7. Zozobra

Restaurant, Asian

One of the top spots for Asian food in Tel Aviv, Zozobra’s menu features Vietnamese-style pho, ramen, wok-fried noodles and curries. Everything tastes fresh (the noodles are prepared daily in their kitchen) and is packed with flavour as Chef Avi Conforti combines different techniques from the Far East. The Bangkok heat noodles and the Korean meat eggrolls are some of their biggest hits. Finish off your meal with a touch of sake before asking for the bill.

8. Amore Mio

Restaurant, Italian

One of the most popular Italian restaurants in Tel Aviv, this centrally located spot offers excellent pasta and pizza in a cosy, unpretentious atmosphere. The owners spent time in Italy studying the cuisine, which is evident after trying their food. Whether you’re looking for a romantic meal or a dinner option with the family, Amore Mio will not disappoint.

9. The Brasserie

Restaurant, Mediterranean, French

One of the most well-established restaurants in Tel Aviv, this French brasserie serves consistently delicious food in a classy atmosphere, featuring tall ceilings and a trendy bar. Centrally located right next to Rabin Square and open 24/7 two days a week, this is a great dining option during Shabbat. Famous for their hamburger and chips dish, their pasta with meatballs is also not to be missed.

10. Coffee Bar

Brasserie, Restaurant, French

This is one of Tel Aviv’s finest restaurants, situated incongruously in an industrial area in the southeast of the city. Its gourmet menu, with highlights including liver pâté, duck confit and a hamburger in red wine, is complemented by an elegant layout and excellent service. Prices aren’t cheap, so perhaps save this for a special occasion.

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