What makes Israel genuinely unique? It’s the rich tapestry of cultures and religions, all contributing to a diverse and flavorful cuisine you won’t experience anywhere else. In Israel, you can savor European schnitzel alongside Iraqi sabich, all within arm’s reach.
Here’s our curated list of the top 5 Israeli street foods you must try on your next visit:
Our top list of street food is Hummus.
No.1 Hummus
If heaven had a taste, it must have tasted like hummus.
Hummus is a top pick for street food in Israel! Forget the store-bought stuff; it’s served hot and fresh in a bowl. Add toppings like chickpeas, mushrooms, and ful (a black lentil). You’ll also get fluffy pita bread, onion, olives, and falafel on the side.
Don’t be shy; use the pita (yes, even with onion!) to scoop up every bit of hummus. That’s the way to enjoy it!
Top spots to try include “Abu-Hassan” in Jaffa, “Lina” in Jerusalem, and “Said” in Acre. But you’ll find it all over Israel, and it’s always tasty!
No.2 Shakshuka
Apart from its catchy name, what’s not to love about mixing poached eggs with tomato sauce? Shakshuka, originally from Tunisia but enjoyed throughout the Middle East and North Africa, is all about simplicity.
Add tomato sauce and spices to some onions, garlic, and peppers in olive oil. Finish by poaching the eggs right on top. It’s that easy!
For a delicious breakfast, try it at your hotel or visit “Dr. Shakshuka” in Jaffa, famous for its mouthwatering eggplant shakshuka.
No.3 Kubbeh Soap
This delectable dish features semolina stuffed with meat, served in a flavorful sauce typically crafted from pumpkins or beets. As always, a side of pita complements it perfectly.
Originating from Iraq, this dish could easily be dubbed “Israeli dumplings.” Enjoying four balls of Kubbeh makes for a satisfying breakfast. Among Iraqi and Kurdish Jews, it’s a cherished Sabbath and holiday tradition, often served as the vibrant “red Kubbeh soup.”
For an unforgettable culinary experience, head to Hakarmel Market in Tel Aviv or Rahmo Restaurant at Machne Yehuda Market in Jerusalem (Haeshkol St. 5). Once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
No.4 Falafel
This vibrant dish is a fresh and delicious Israeli favorite, often considered a national treasure!
Falafel is a classic vegetarian “street food” staple served inside a convenient pita pocket. These fried balls are crafted from ground chickpeas and are typically accompanied by Israeli salad, pickles, hummus, and tahini.
For the best experience, purchase it fresh, ensuring it’s warm and crisp!
For an exceptional falafel experience, visit “Falafel Gabay,” located at Bugrashov Street 25 in Tel Aviv.
No.5 Malabi
Get ready for a delicious and Instagram-worthy treat!
In the world of classic desserts, pink and white reign supreme.
Meet Malabi, a milk pudding infused with sweet rosewater. Its exquisite blend of flavors, complemented by a filling of pistachios, coconuts, and nuts, elevates it to dessert perfection.
A local’s secret: On weekends, you can taste this dish at the «Ein-Shemen» forest entrance.
If you are going there, see the magnificent Thai Pagoda Temple in the middle of this forest. This temple was donated as a gift by the government of Thailand, which has existed for 50 years, both the government of Israel and the king of Thailand.
Although Malabi is considered a bad word in Chinese, our tourists love it.
