Markets in Tel Aviv: Eat and drink at the best markets in town
Tel Aviv's markets are not only a place to buy fresh produce, but also a window into the city's unique culture, history, and character. One of the best ways to experience the flavors and aromas of a Tel Aviv market is to join a food tour with experienced guides who know every bite and every interesting stall, as well as the people and stories behind them.
Going to the market: Tel Aviv, Israel's culinary capital
When considering market tours, Tel Aviv is the first name that comes to mind. The city has several renowned markets where it is worthwhile to sample everything they have to offer. An important tip – as every market lover knows, Friday is not the ideal day to visit them. No matter which market you choose, Friday is the busiest and most crowded day, guaranteeing long lines and competition for the best goods. Therefore, it is better not to go on Friday, and to book a tour in the middle of the week.
Carmel Market
A market in central Tel Aviv, considered to beOne of the most historic and famous markets in the city. The market was founded in 1920 and has since served as a vibrant hub for commerce, food, and culture. The market is home to long-standing food and vegetable stalls and shops that have become institutions, alongside young and interesting businesses that are constantly innovating. Here are two of them:
- The Juices of Hope Tikva Yitzhak was one of the first women to set up a stall in the Carmel Market, and today her juice stand is a local institution. Tikva combines knowledge, a sense of mission, and a personal touch to squeeze the perfect juice for each customer, always with a smile and a tip for staying healthy.
- Panda Pita Chef Idan "Panda" Feinberg opened one of the most delightful and delicious stalls in the Carmel Market, with a line forming as soon as it opened. He incorporates his culinary experience into meticulously prepared dishes, which are perfectly complemented by light pita bread. The signature pita is "eggplant in the clouds," a wonderful variation on sabich with caramelized eggplant, tahini, and beet chutney.
Levinsky Market
A market in Tel Aviv-Jaffa doesn't have to be just a fruit and vegetable market. Levinsky Market, located in the heart of the lively Florentin neighborhood, represents the more urban and trendy side of the city and is recommended for anyone looking for markets in the center of the action. The market is A mosaic of authentic delicatessens and unique spice shops, Alongside old-school bars and chic cafés, here are two representative places that are not to be missed:
- Burekas Levinsky – Borek lovers flock here from all over the country to enjoy traditional borek with a variety of fillings. The place is known for its high-quality dough, which contains no margarine, and you can also buy it on site, along with frozen homemade jachnun.
- Pizza at night – A bustling neighborhood pizzeria that makes excellent chef pizzas from high-quality ingredients. Unsurprisingly, the place became an overnight sensation. Among the successful toppings: onion and garlic confit, fresh wild mushrooms, and an excellent combination of cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and spinach. Everything is plentiful – from the cheese (including vegan options) to the sauces.
Tikva Market
The market, located in southern Tel Aviv, is One of the oldest and most colorful markets in the city. The market offers an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and spices, alongside traditional foods and street food stalls. The authentic atmosphere that has been preserved over the years makes a tour of the market a unique experience. Here are two places you shouldn't miss:
- King of the Cubes – The fame of David Habib's Iraqi kubba has spread far and wide. At his famous stand, you can find beetroot kubba, okra kubba, hamusta kubba, and pumpkin kubba, some of which are also available in vegetarian and vegan versions. The selection also includes bulgur kubba, rice kubba, hummus sambusak, and a variety of other homemade dishes.
- Dilk's – For those who don't know what Turkish water borek is, an unforgettable culinary experience awaits you here. The delicate dough is cooked in water without a drop of fat, which does not detract from its rich flavor and crispy texture. Alongside the borek, they serve a variety of Turkish desserts that cannot be found anywhere else.
Flea market
On the surface, it's not a classic food market, but experienced food tour guides know exactly where to find the most delicious bites in the area. The restaurants, bars, and food stalls They blend in perfectly with the antique shops and trendy boutiques. Here are two of the most recommended:
- Beer Bazaar – Food tours naturally also devote space to drinks. One of the hottest spots is a temple of Israeli beers, which stocks an interesting and high-quality range of local boutique beers, both bottled and on tap.
- Leone pastry – Jaffa is one of the strongholds of Bulgarian immigrants, so it is not surprising to find a legendary Bulgarian institution there, whose roots date back to the establishment of the State of Israel. The place specializes in making thin phyllo dough without a drop of fat, which is used to make burekas, banitsa, family dough rolls (chokor), as well as strudel, blintzes, and baklava.
Giraffe – Exciting food tours in various markets in Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv-Jaffa is a city of vibrant markets and multicultural cuisine. To discover the most delicious foods, hidden stalls, and most interesting stories, we recommend booking one ofGiraffe Food Tours. Our experienced guides, who know every bite in town, will take you on a delicious and unforgettable journey through the alleys of every market in Tel Aviv – Hatikva, Flea Market, Levinsky, and of course Carmel. Don't feel like walking around with a guide? You can also book Independent tour with an expert bot guide, who will guide you through the chat all the way to the most delicious dishes on the market (our recommendation – don't come on Friday). If you have any further questions, just call us at 053-7627700 and we will be happy to help.