Around almost every corner in Tel Aviv, you can find a little cafe or coffee shop. No kidding, the city is packed with them! And at each cafe, you will be greeted with strong and dark coffee, just as the locals like them. Two things to know about them - one, most of them are dog friendly, and two, some may be closed on Saturday over Shabbat.
With a myriad of unique options, both old classics and new favourites, let's take a look at what the cafe culture of this Israeli city is like. :
1. The Little Prince
While walking past its entrance, it is easy to mistake this place for a mere second-hand bookstore. But once you step through the front door, you will discover a cute little cafe hidden in its backyard. Among the tourist favourites, The Little Prince is a prominent name. Settled at a prime location in the city, only a few steps away from the Bezalel and Carmel markets, this cafe is adored for its relaxing atmosphere and whimsical vibes. It is a true bookworm's paradise. The perfect place to grab a book and read it in a corner while sipping your coffee. The interior has shelves lined with books to the top. Written in Hebrew, French, Spanish and English, one can find novels of all kinds here. The best part, however, is their open-air seating marked by patio furniture and lush foliage.
Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM, Friday from 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM, Saturday from 8:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Address: King George St 19, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
2. Cafelix- Florentine- Levinsky
Cafelix is the answer you get when one inquires the locals about the best coffee in town. This cafe is an old favourite of all locals and travellers. Hence, no matter when you visit, you will be greeted by their trained baristas hosting a bustling crowd. This roastery has three outlets across Tel Aviv. One is on Shlomo HaMeleksh street 12, in the vicinity of the Kikar Dizengoff roundabout. Another is Florentin. The third one is in Jaffa, within walking distance of the beach. Tiny plants decorate both their indoor and outdoor seating areas. The food menu is limited as they specialise in handcrafted coffee and desserts. Their coffee beans are local produce acquired from known farmers, which is what makes their freshly brewed coffee the talk of the town.
Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Friday from 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Closed on Saturday
Address: Merkhavya St 6, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
3. Nahat Café
Surrounded by Bauhaus architecture, Nahat cafe is sought-after for the scenic views one can capture from its premises. The serene terrace seating of this cafe overlooks Dizengoff Square, offering a splendid view of the hallmark fire and water fountain. Its cutesy interior gets filled with a delicious aroma once its expert baristas start brewing the coffee with their unique roasting technique. It houses one of the largest collections of organic coffee beans. These are available for purchase at the shop. Along with hand blends, their menu comprises single-origin coffees, best enjoyed with their delicious cookies and croissants.
Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Saturday from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Address: Dizengoff Square 1, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
4. Papua Cafe Tlv
Stationed at the Geula beach, Papua cafe is a hidden gem of Tel Aviv. Walls lined with wooden panels, barrel-shaped cylindrical seats and tables, and the smell of steaming coffee highlight the tiny space of this cafe. At first look, this cafe even gives the impression of a food truck. But essentially, it is designed more like a small wooden cabin with cosy open-air seating. It is open till late in the evenings. The friendly staff loves interacting with their guests as they work fast, preparing the orders. The menu has a variety of cakes, muffins and yummy snacks to go along with your cup of coffee. The hipster vibes mark the funky aesthetic, making it the best spot to stop and chill with friends while exploring the city.
Timings: Sunday from 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Monday to Thursday from 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Friday from 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Closed on Saturday
Address: Ge'ula St 26, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
5. Edmund Coffee
Just a walk away from The Hagana Museum, Edmund Coffee is a delightful open-air cafe in a small alley off the busy street. It got its name after Field Marshal Edmund Allenby of the United Kingdom. The soothing atmosphere of its courtyard setting provides a respite from the city clamour. Its extensive menu covers a variety of tea and coffee, especially their iced almond matcha latte and homemade kombucha, which everyone raves about. More favourites include avocado toast, freshly baked goodies and gourmet sandwiches. Most locals bring along their laptops and get their work done during the afternoons. The music playing in the background may be a deterrent, but the interior is well lit, the vintage seating is comfy, and the atmosphere is tranquil.
Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday from 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Closed on Saturday
Address: Yehuda ha-Levi St 33, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
6. Bucke Café
Not far from Karmel Market, this cafe has emerged as a popular choice for breakfasts and quick brunches. It is spread across three prime spots in Tel Aviv. But the good part is that the waiters are quick and attentive despite the huge crowds. Its contemporary interior is filled with witty quotes, softly lit wooden decorations and local tunes playing in the background. On cool days, one can enjoy the street scenes sitting under the shade of their exterior sitting area. The menu has a range of Mediterranean and Israeli dishes, including salads and other healthy food options, all served on big trays called the 'classic Bucke tray'. It is vegan friendly too. The must-try dish includes the Breakfast platter and the handmade chocolate chip cookies.
Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 7:00 AM - 10:30 PM, Friday from 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Closed on Saturday
Address: Ahad Ha'Am St 91, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
7. Le Moulin
A kilometre away from Bograshov beach, Bucke cafe is renowned for being an authentic French boulangerie, i.e. bakery. Hence, you can expect a plethora of cheeses, delicious croissants and freshly baked crisp baguettes here. Its minimalistic interior has limited seating, which is why you might have to wait a bit for a table, and why this won't be one of those cafes where you can get your office work done. However, despite its small size, it houses the best selection of pastries and bread. The staff, with their experience and amicable hospitality, make everything worth the price you pay.
Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 AM - 8:30 PM, Friday from 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM, Closed on Saturday
Address: Bograshov St 72, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
8. Cafe Xoho
Cafe Xoho is visited by those who want the feeling of a Brooklyn restaurant while enjoying the local Tel Aviv scene. It is visited by those who wish to relish their taste buds while eating healthy. Not far from the beach, it lies alongside Ben Yehuda Street. With a simplistic interior and patio seating that looks out to the street, its funky ambience attracts a young and hip crowd. The menu is designed around American flavours, its highlights being the bagel, smoked salmon and sweet pancake stack. Each of their picture-perfect dishes is prepared healthily with vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options. An amicable staff provides a speedy service to keep the crowds rolling.
Timings: Sunday to Friday from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Closed on Saturday
Address: Ben Yehuda St 73, Tel Aviv-Yafo, 6343501, Israel
9. Café Yom Tov
Established in a prime spot in the heart of Carmel Market, Café Yom Tov offers a quick refreshment while shopping in the narrow lanes of its crowded market. Due to its location, you can expect a busy and boisterous ambience. Its courtyard seating is perfect for exchanging stories with strangers over a cup of coffee. Its Bohemian vibe attracts hipsters, locals and travellers alike. However, if you prefer to sit in a quieter spot to catch up on work or just to relax, they have secluded seating on their second floor. Freshly baked saluf bread, avocado sandwich, an eggplant dish and Sultan's pool are the star of its eclectic menu. If not visiting for a brunch, but rather a dinner, you can switch your cup of organic coffee for a bottle of chilled beer and end the night.
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday from 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM, Thursday from 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM, Friday from 8:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Saturday from 6:30 PM - 1:00 AM
Address: Yom Tov St 30, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
10. WayCup Coffee
A charming little cafe in a quiet spot of a residential neighbourhood, WayCup Coffee is another native treasure. It is present at two locations across Tel Aviv, the other one falling on Milkve Israel street. The proud owner, with his staff of professionally trained baristas and his impressive collection of coffee beans, have managed to make a hit among crowds of all kinds. A quick glance at the interior gives one the impression of a concrete jungle. With little house plants in corners, creepers cascading from the walls, and wooden seaters, you'll find the atmosphere to sit back and unwind. It also has laptop stands for those who wish to work. Their single origins are definitely something to write home about.
Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday from 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Closed on Saturday
Address: Yohanan HaSandlar St 23, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
The countless options in Tel Aviv make it difficult to summarise the city's cafe scene in a single list. Are there some hidden gems you came across while exploring? Make sure to leave a comment below!