New Culinary Hotspots: From Carmel Market Tacos to Jaffa's Wellness Bars

The culinary scene in Israel continues to buzz with fresh openings, offering everything from street food novelties to chic wine bars. If you are looking to explore the latest gastronomic hotspots, here is a roundup of the newest places you need to know about.

Passia in Tel Aviv

Passia has officially opened its doors in the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv, led by Chef Asher George (formerly of Aka) in partnership with Roy Pari and Roy Dabush from the Holy Bar near the Great Synagogue. This new spot is giving serious competition to Lewis Taco, which opened earlier this summer. The absolute standout dish is the birria taco made from short rib, served with a rich beef broth for dipping (32 shekels). Beyond that, the menu features tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and various sides, including vegan options. Prices range from 21 to 59 shekels. By day, it operates as a fast-casual taqueria, and by night, it transforms into a vibrant bar complete with margaritas, shots, and Mexican music.

Magazzino in Hod HaSharon

Following the recent opening of the new Magazzino Bakery branch in Ramat HaSharon, the popular brand is expanding further with a brand-new location in Hod HaSharon. Opening at the end of the month, this will be the city's second Magazzino branch, following the one that opened on HaNagar Street a little over a year ago.

Barie in Jaffa

Amidst all the yogurt bars we have tried this season, Barie—created by the people behind the Alhambra delicatessen—is perhaps the most unique. It is a smoothie and yogurt bar featuring fresh fruit sourced directly from the adjacent greengrocer. The menu boasts rotating seasonal specials, such as red plum in its own juices and honey-glazed peaches, served over low-sugar yogurt. There are also specialized wellness toppings: 'Yoga' for women, featuring goji berries and chia seeds, and 'Gevera' for men, based on flaxseeds and whole sesame. Visitors can also enjoy cold brew on tap, house-made ginger ale and orange sodas, and freshly squeezed juices.

15th Avenue Food Truck Complex in Herzliya

Building on the success of the food truck park at the entrance to Kibbutz Galil Yam, Herzliya has welcomed a new food truck complex on the lawns of the Air Force House. Currently featuring three food trucks—Bon Bon for smash burgers, Japa for Asian street food, and a Brooklyn Bagels truck offering savory rolls and bagels—it is quickly becoming a local favorite.

Samsa in Tel Aviv

Bukharian cuisine continues to gain momentum in Tel Aviv. Just two weeks after the opening of Anor near Shalom Tower, Levinsky Market has welcomed a new Bukharian eatery named Samsa. The menu offers traditional samsa pastries filled with various ingredients for 16 shekels each, steamed manti dumplings priced at 40-45 shekels for a portion of five, as well as hearty portions of oshpław and bsh, plus belyashi and chebureki.

Hoshen 196 in Tel Aviv

A new kosher gastro-bar has opened on Ben Yehuda Street in Tel Aviv, serving what it calls Israeli tapas. The menu features beef tartare bruschetta, raw fish dishes, small skewers, a spicy condiment plate, mushroom tacos, sausages, schnitzel, salmon tataki, and tuna sashimi.

Zehavah in Eilat

As promised earlier this summer, a brand-new restaurant has opened in Eilat. Created by Adi Carmel and Tom Tzafrir, the owners of Fortuna, this new venue sits right next door in the same complex. The menu offers seasonal Mediterranean fare featuring grilled dishes, roasted vegetables, skewers, and plancha items designed for sharing. Located in the hotel district, it is positioned not just as a tourist trap, but as a culinary destination for locals.

Tres in Herzliya

Another chic wine bar has opened in Herzliya, located not far from the sailing club and the Arena Mall. With a trendy interior design and a stylish atmosphere, it is set to give serious competition to the town's newest nightlife spots. The menu features green salads, tataki, focaccia, photogenic pasta, raw fish dishes, and soft-serve ice cream for dessert.