Rivka ve-Celia Founders Open Passage Bistro in Tel Aviv's Tzahala
The legendary culinary team behind Rivka ve-Celia has opened Passage, a cozy European-inspired neighborhood bistro in Tel Aviv's Tzahala district, offering comforting bistro classics and fine wines.
After four decades of culinary excellence, the founders of the legendary Rivka ve-Celia have opened Passage, a cozy neighborhood bistro in the commercial center of Tzahala, Tel Aviv. Led by veteran culinary manager and chef Shay Montag, the new evening-focused venue offers a curated menu inspired by French, Italian, and Spanish bistros, featuring roughly twenty comforting dishes paired with an accessible wine list.
The launch of Passage stemmed from necessity rather than simple expansion. When the building housing the group's production center was slated for demolition a year ago, owners like Amos Apel—son of the late Rivka Apel—seized the opportunity to reinvent their craft. Seeking to capture the nostalgic, tight-knit community feel of early Ramat HaSharon, they transformed the Tzahala commercial center into a lively gathering spot that bridges neighborhood warmth with high professional standards.
Comfort Cuisine with a Nostalgic Twist
Passage’s menu focuses on hearty, unpretentious bistro fare designed to nourish and delight. Standout dishes include slow-cooked chicken with ptitim and caramelized onions—a deeply comforting recipe courtesy of Montag's mother—alongside veal meatballs with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and a vibrant all-day salad paying homage to the legendary Orna ve-Ella.
With interior design crafted by Noa Baki Montag and an inviting, relaxed atmosphere, Passage successfully delivers a welcoming sanctuary for both locals and visitors from across the city, proving that neighborhood dining can be both sophisticated and deeply personal.
