Debbie Kandel's January 1, 2025, Debbest Israel article reviews the resilient Israeli restaurant scene of 2024, a year marked by war and reduced tourism but also a surprising number of new openings. The article highlights a significant trend towards Japanese restaurants, wine bars, and bakeries across various locations, from Tel Aviv's dynamic culinary hubs to Jerusalem's blend of traditional and modern cuisines. The review features a diverse range of establishments, including both kosher and non-kosher options. High-end kosher restaurants like Agripas 15 (dairy, with a high minimum spend) and Alali (meat, also with a substantial minimum spend) are featured alongside more casual options such as Alma (cafe and deli) and the expanding Arais Mahneyuda chain. The article also notes the presence of diverse cuisines among new openings, such as Japanese (Azia 19), Italian (Berta food truck), and innovative takes on traditional Israeli fare. Kandel shares personal opinions on restaurants she's visited and encourages reader feedback through Restaurant Club Israel and Restaurant Club Jerusalem. The overall tone is optimistic, emphasizing the industry's dynamism and ability to overcome economic and political difficulties. The related article reinforces this positive outlook, repeating the theme of resilience and listing several of the same restaurants, providing a consistent picture of the Israeli restaurant industry's activity in 2024.
Source: Debbest Israel
Published: 1 month ago Israel