An exceptional Teppanyaki experience | Ukai-tei, Tokyo

Ukai-tei is one of the 3 Michelin starred restaurant we visited in Tokyo, and was the only one that served lunch. Lunch service is usually less expensive than diner service, so opting for lunch allows us to experience more high end restaurants in our travels. So whenever there’s an option for a lunch meal, we’ll prefer it.

This restaurant is part of a chain in Japan, that specializes in Teppanyaki – Japanese cuisine that makes use of an iron griddle to cook food. We reserved our seats for the Omotesando branch, which is located at the top floor of the Chanel building in Harajuku.

Read More

First visit to the market everyone is talking about | Shuk Tzafon (North Market), Tel Aviv

Michal Ansky’s Shuk Tzafon (North Market) just opened its gates for a run-in period and we had to check it out. The market is located in Ramat Hachayal area of Tel Aviv and is spread across 1600 square meters packed with 15 food stalls and 15 specialty shops. It follows the trend of food courts in recent years, such as Sarona Market and Shuk Namal (Harbor Market). Unlike the latter two, it is aimed towards a different crowd – residents of the surrounding neighborhoods and the hi-tech workers from close-by offices.

Read More

Resto-Bistro Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea | Raphael, Tel Aviv

If you’re looking for a restaurant with a great view in Tel Aviv, Raphael is probably one of the best. The chef behind the name is Rafi Cohen, which defines the restaurant as Resto-Bistro. Raphael is well known and a stable establishment in the Israeli culinary scene, existing since 2001 which is quite an impressive feat.

Read More

[Closed] Shulchan has a lot to bring to the table @ Tel Aviv

We were looking for a place to have an indulgent lunch on a lazy Friday when a picture from Shulchan (“Table” in Hebrew) popped up in my Facebook feed. After a brief debate (atypical for us, since it usually involves at least a couple of hours) and quick phone call to make sure there’s an available table, we were on our way to Rothschild St.

Read More

Snackable: Milk Bakery, Tel Aviv

Last Friday we had the pleasure of visiting Milk Bakery, once again. Milk Bakery is an excellent patisserie located at Jaffa’s Flea Market that never fails to deliver outstanding baking goods. It was founded by Adi Kihan, a patisserie with an impressive track record of working in top notch restaurants and bakeries both in Israel and in France. Read More

[Closed] Slow Friday Lunch | Han Manoli, Tel Aviv

Han Manoli is an oriental restaurant situated at Jaffa’s flea market, inside an interesting historical building bearing the same name. While they don’t take reservation on Fridays, we had no problem finding a table for two at around 12:00. When we left, almost 2 hours later, a large group of tourists were turned away at the door because almost all tables were occupied.

Read More

Brunch | Claro, Tel Aviv

Claro is hands down one of my favorite restaurants in Tel Aviv. If you were to ask me for a restaurant recommendation, one that fits both casual and celebratory events, Claro would be one of the first names to come up. The restaurant is located in Sarona, close to Ha’arbaa street inside a huge Templar structure. The main hall is spacious and impressive, boasting a large open kitchen and a bright, beautiful design. There are several seating options, each providing the patrons with a different experience. If this is your first time here, I recommend sitting on the bar to catch all the action as it unfolds in the kitchen.

Read More

3 Patisseries You Must Try in Tokyo

In every city I visit, I try to find a piece of Paris. The fun thing about patisseries in Tokyo? Their sweets are less sweet, so you can eat more and feel less guilty. This is not to take from their beauty of course. The desserts are made to perfection and look like a work of art. The downside is that not every place allows you take photos, and in some places we were told to stop after shooting a few pictures. They don’t allow it even if you buy something from them. Before heading to Tokyo, I’ve tracked down some of the most exciting places to get my sweet fix. Plus, you’re in for a nice surprise at the end of the post – one amazing foodies heaven! You can thank me later (preferably with a cake). Read More