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Experience Mediterranean Flavors at Mena – A Bistro Restaurant on Yarakon Street

Dining travel guide

Address: Yarkon 88, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Phone: 0529125326

I recently visited Mena, a Mediterranean bistro restaurant located on Yarakon Street, and I must say, I was impressed. The restaurant is under the direction of Chef Yanon Elel, who has worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens around the world. The restaurant is beautifully situated on a balcony overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, offering a stunning view.

Mena’s emphasis on Mediterranean food is evident in every dish they serve, and the freshness of the ingredients is apparent. The menu is carefully curated, with classic influences and European flair that doesn’t compromise on the small details. I had the pleasure of trying several dishes, and each one was better than the last.

The winter menu features a variety of dishes, from sourdough bread with butter, dua, olive oil, and balsamic from Modena, to sweet potato roulade with confit garlic, feta, hazelnuts, and olive oil. The standout dish for me was the chopped liver with pepper jam, crispy shallots, sour leaves, and African bread. It was a unique twist on a classic dish, and the flavors were perfectly balanced.

Mena’s menu options are a delightful blend of Mediterranean cuisine with European influences, offering a diverse range of dishes to suit all tastes. From classic favorites like Caesar salad with parmesan and crispy potato, to more adventurous options like fish carpaccio with pistachio vinaigrette and chili, the restaurant caters to a variety of palates. Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of options, including the red root vegetable pasta with silan, za’atar, and feta, and the greens in the oven with caesar aioli, parmesan, crispy potato, and soft egg. The menu is carefully curated to highlight the freshest ingredients, and the staff is knowledgeable about each dish, making recommendations and accommodating any dietary restrictions. Overall, the menu options at Mena are a delicious journey through the flavors of the Mediterranean.

The service at Mena was impeccable, and the staff was attentive and knowledgeable. They were able to match the needs of our group in terms of food, style, design, and service. The published menus can be slightly changed if necessary, which is a nice touch.

Overall, I highly recommend Mena for anyone looking for a Mediterranean dining experience in a beautiful setting. The prices are reasonable, considering the quality of the food and the level of service. If you’re looking for a place to host a small event, Mena is the perfect choice.

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Rashel: A Memorable Moroccan Fusion Dining Experience in Tel Aviv

As an American tourist visiting Tel Aviv, I had the pleasure of dining at Rashel, a Moroccan restaurant and lounge bar located in the port of Tel Aviv. The restaurant offers a Mediterranean fusion menu and is strictly kosher. From the moment I stepped inside, I was immediately transported to another world. The restaurant's decor was beautiful, with bright colors and intricate patterns, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. The menu at Rashel was extensive and offered a variety of dishes that blended traditional Moroccan flavors with modern Mediterranean cuisine. The chef clearly takes pride in using the best and freshest ingredients available, and it showed in the taste and presentation of each dish. I started with the kitchen jam and carpaccio, which were both delicious and full of flavor. For my main course, I tried the grilled sea bass and was blown away by the delicate and perfectly cooked fish, which was accompanied by a flavorful side of beets. The dessert menu at Rashel was equally impressive, and I indulged in the millefeuille Louisa and lemon, which was a perfect ending to my meal. Overall, my experience at Rashel was exceptional. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was vibrant, and the service was attentive and friendly. I would highly recommend Rashel to anyone looking for a unique and memorable dining experience in Tel Aviv.

Shishko Tel Aviv: A Blend of Bulgarian Menu and Tel Aviv Fun

Shishko is a restaurant located in Tel Aviv that offers a unique culinary experience by blending Bulgarian cuisine with the lively atmosphere of the city. The restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone who loves Balkan food, a lively environment, and good drinks. The combination of great food, good people, and alcohol makes Shishko a perfect destination for anyone who wants to have a good time. One of the highlights of Shishko is their Bulgarian Mazets. Served every day, these dishes are fresh and delicious, offering a true taste of Bulgaria. The menu is simple, yet elegant, and features a range of dishes that will delight any food lover. Shishko's chefs take pride in using fresh and local ingredients to create the perfect blend of flavors. However, Shishko is not just about the food. The restaurant also offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Tel Aviv. The city is known for its diverse population and lively energy, and Shishko is no exception. The restaurant is located in a vibrant area and attracts a diverse crowd, making it a perfect place to hang out and enjoy the city's energy. The restaurant's atmosphere is also enhanced by the authentic and happy music that plays at a volume that allows for comfortable conversation. The music adds to the overall ambiance of the restaurant, creating a warm and welcoming environment that will make you want to stay longer. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner for two or a night out with friends, Shishko is the perfect destination. The restaurant offers a range of seating options, from intimate tables to larger group settings, making it a perfect venue for any occasion. In summary, Shishko is a perfect blend of Bulgarian cuisine and Tel Aviv fun. The restaurant offers a unique culinary experience, featuring fresh and delicious dishes served alongside a sea of alcohol. However, the atmosphere is just as important as the food, and Shishko's lively and welcoming environment makes it a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the energy and diversity of Tel Aviv.

From Fast Food to Croissant Shawarma: A Comparison from an American Tourist's Perspective

As an American tourist, I couldn't resist trying out the latest food craze in Haifa, Israel - the croissant shawarma. As a lover of fast food back home, I was intrigued by this unique combination of French pastry and Middle Eastern street food. My adventure took me to the Hazan restaurant in Haifa thanks to the help of a local friend. The moment I walked in, I felt like an outsider as the regulars gave me a curious look. But I was determined to try this new dish that everyone was talking about. The process of ordering and preparing the croissant shawarma was simple yet interesting. The workers sliced the shawarma on the spot, and I was handed a plate with paper on it to make my own croissant sandwich. The croissant was sliced in half and stuffed with a generous amount of veal shawarma, which was excellent in taste and quality. The croissant itself was slightly sweet, and the cabbage salad added a nice sour crunch. I also added some pickled vegetables from the salad bar to complete my meal. One thing that struck me was the affordability of this dish. It only cost me 30 shekels, which is equivalent to about $9 USD. In comparison, a fast food meal in the US would cost me around $10-$15, and it would not be as fresh or healthy as this croissant shawarma. As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn't help but draw comparisons to American fast food. While both cultures have their own unique fast food offerings, there is a significant difference in the quality and freshness of the ingredients. In Israel, the emphasis is on using fresh and healthy ingredients, and this is evident in the croissant shawarma dish that I had. In conclusion, I would highly recommend trying out the croissant shawarma if you ever find yourself in Haifa, Israel. It's a simple yet delicious combination that satisfies your taste buds and wallet. As an American tourist, it was refreshing to see the emphasis on fresh and healthy ingredients in fast food, and it's something that I hope catches on back home.

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