Top 5: Neighborhood hangouts in Tel Aviv

Considered a landmark by locals, Haminzar on Allenby is open 24/7 and is nearly always packed.

By MOLLY CUTLER
Top 5: Neighborhood hangouts in Tel Aviv (photo credit: courtesy)
Top 5: Neighborhood hangouts in Tel Aviv
(photo credit: courtesy)
There’s nothing better than finding neighborhood hangouts where you can enjoy a drink or meal, recognize friendly faces, and feel like you can relax for hours.
When exploring a new city, finding such places filled with locals and authentic food can be a challenge. However, they are definitely out there in this treasure trove we call home.
From super casual bars to the quaintest of cafes, here is a list of the top 5 neighborhood food and drink destinations in Tel Aviv.Haminzar
This classic neighborhood bar lies at the intersection of King George Street, Nachalat Binyamin, and Allenby, one of the busiest junctions in Tel Aviv.
In an area notorious for its grunge and tourists, Haminzar’s laid back vibe and sprawling patio creates for a casual, relaxing experience in an otherwise hectic area.
Considered an “establishment” in Tel Aviv, whether old or young, this is the perfect place to catch up with friends for a beer, gather for happy hour after work (daily from 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.), or sit with a glass of wine solo.
Choose from a wide variety of beers on tap, wines, and hard liquors. It’s the ideal place to sit back, unwind after a long day, and even in fashion-conscious Tel Aviv, it’s acceptable to arrive in sweats and a t-shirt.Insider tip: Always opt for a table outside, unless it’s raining of course! Allenby 60, Tel Aviv (03) 517-3015 Hours: Sunday to Saturday: 24/7 Not kosher Cafe Michal
Cafe Michal rests in Tel Aviv’s Old North. It’s one of the sweetest cafe bistros in the city.
Surrounded by a privatized patio filled with flowers and bursting with charm, the restaurant’s uniquely calming setting is merely one dimension of the Cafe Michal experience.
The eclectic menu features classic breakfast items including the Israeli breakfast, French toast, and protein packed muesli. Salads, sandwiches, and delicious toasts are available for lunch, while traditional Israeli and European dishes such as schnitzel, meatballs, and beef stuffed peppers fill the dinner menu.
Whether you live in the area and are in search of an easy-going, high quality meal, a coffee outing or are coming from farther away, Cafe Michal is worth the trek for an intimate time. Insider tip: Take notice of the many people working with their laptops and papers at this cafe, as it’s known for attracting authors and writers who live in the area.
Dizengoff 230 (corner Jabotinsky), Tel Aviv Hours: Sunday to Thursday 8 a.m. – midnight, Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – midnight.
Phone: (03) 523-0236 Not kosher Armadillo
Armadillo is the epitome of a small, personable neighborhood Tel Aviv pub. It lies in the center around the Rothschild area on Ahad Ha’am Street, between the beautiful Bauhaus architecture-filled Mazeh and Balfour streets.
Choose from an assortment of beers, wines, and cocktails. This intimate hub serves up authentic Georgian food, featuring meat dishes as the main stars. So, if you’re in the mood for some comfort food and a drink, this is the place to be.
Come with a friend or arrive alone and get acquainted with locals at the bar.
Insider tip: Grab a seat at the bar and chat with the bartenders. They’re super friendly!Ahad Ha’am 51, Tel Aviv (with an alternative location at Dizengoff 174, Tel Aviv) Hours: Sunday to Thursday6 p.m.– 2 a.m., Friday 8 p.m. – 3 a.m., Saturday 7 p.m.- 3 a.m.Phone: (03) 620-5503Not kosher The Streets Cafe, King George
The best thing about The Streets is that it seems fitting for every occasion. It goes from the ultimate brunch place in the mornings to a comfortable lunch spot midday to a hopping, restaurant/bar at night.
It’s also a great place to bring your laptop and plug away for hours without so much as a glance from the wait staff. I have had only positive experiences with both the food and service at this “one stop shop” of a cafe.
Go there regularly and the staff will start to recognize you, which is always a plus.
Insider tip: After a long night out in Tel Aviv, nothing beats a lazy morning at The Streets where portions are large, the coffee is strong, and people are friendly!
King George 70, Tel Aviv (with alternative locations at Ishtori Ha Parhi 20, Tel Aviv and Ibn Gvirol 114, Tel Aviv) Hours: Sunday to Saturday: 24/7 Phone: (03) 620-1070 Not kosher Va’ad Habayit
While this bar resides on the prestigious Rothschild Boulevard,Va’ad Habayit is far from intimidating.
This neighborhood bar is located in the center of the Tel Aviv nightlife, providing the optimal place to meet up with friends before a big night out or a perfect way to end the night.
Order one of their many drinks and chill out on the patio while checking out the cool Tel Avivians walking by on Rothschild at all hours of the night.
Insider tip: Head inside to hear the DJ who plays mainstream music daily.
Rothschild 64, Tel Aviv 077-345-2494 Hours: Sunday to Saturday 6 p.m. -last customer Not kosher
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