As told by Birthright Israel alumna and Tel Aviv local, Amy Albertson of The Asian Israeli.

Israel might be the Jewish state, but in Tel Aviv brunch is like a religion. There are endless spots to try, each serving up their versions of the “Israeli breakfast” – a spread of eggs made to order, cheeses, dips, bread, and it usually includes a coffee and/or juice. It’s meant to be shared between friends and over a conversation.

If you’re like me and can’t get enough of the Tel Aviv sun or beaches in your life, it’s time to get back to Israel after your Birthright trip and feast on some Israeli brunch!

Bucke Cafe

Bucke Café has a cozy neighborhood vibe. The staff are all friends, and it’s like they are just hanging out, and you’re there hanging with them. Twice they’ve handed out fresh baked goodies for free to everyone there! They’re known for their trays. My fave is the classic BUCKE TRAY which comes with bread, scrambled eggs with herbs, labane, tahini, fresh salad, tuna salad, and the most delicious roasted veggies (P.S. it comes in a vegan version too!). Pro tip: if you’re going on a Friday, go early. There is a guaranteed wait (but it usually goes quickly, and it’s totally worth it!).


Jonesy Gardner

Conveniently located on Nachalat Binyamin, you should hit this place up on a beautiful spring or summer morning. The seating is mostly out back in their charming garden. I recommend going with a friend and getting the Carmel Breakfast for Two. It comes with eggs, roasted antipasti, smoked salmon and herring, a great cheese plate, salad, tehina, labane, and olives. Also, don’t forget the delicious bread basket!


Cafe Pua

Every trip to Israel should include a day exploring Jaffa, and every trip to Jaffa should include a meal at Cafe Pua. I love the Kibbutz Breakfast, which is a cute collection of spreads, eggs, and salad. They also have tasty Shakshuka! If you’re more into lunch, they also have killer schnitzel.


Day Kitchen

Tucked away in the alleys of Kerem Hatemanim (the Yemenite Quarter), Day Kitchen has a more unique menu than your average Israeli cafe. The staff is also super friendly. For shakshuka lovers, I suggest trying the pumpkin shakshuka or if you’re looking for something sweet, try the banana French toast. No matter what you order, save room for a creme brule lollipop!


Benedict

This is a classic, go-to brunch spot, or late-night munchies spot because they are open 24/7. They’re known for American breakfast options, like eggs and bacon, but also have a variety of other internationally inspired breakfasts. True to their name, they serve up a few delicious variations of eggs benedict, and they’ve got a great selection of brunch cocktails if you’re into that. And, did I mention the bottomless bread basket?

Birthright Israel alumna, Amy Albertson is the girl behind the Instagram account, @TheAsianIsraeli and the blog Amy & Israel: A Love Story. You can follow her to find out more about life in Israel when you’re half Asian. Plus, you can read how Birthright Israel inspired her here!

Related Posts