Sunny weather all year-round, a lively nightlife and hedonistic atmosphere make Tel Aviv a magnet for international tourism. But hundreds of restaurants that have sprung up over the past decade, run by locals who gained their expertise at leading kitchens abroad, are also placing the city on the world's culinary map.
The American magazine Newsweek's latest issue has officially recognized that endeavor, including two Tel Aviv eateries on its prestigious list of the world's "101 best places to eat," compiled recently by 53 celebrated chefs.
Israeli-born chef Yotam Ottolenghi, a rising star in London who owns several restaurants that carry his name, selected Abraxas North and Habasta for the list.
Ottolenghi describes Habasta, located at the city's Shuk Ha' carmel open-air market, as "simple and utilitarian" and recommends its pizza with white truffles and pumpkin carpaccio.
In response, Itay Hargil, one of Habasta's owners, said that making the list "fills us with pride and joy. It's thrilling that such a prominent publication recognizes our quality."
Other dining hotspots on the list include New York's Daniel, Monte Carlo's Le Louis XV, Hong Kong's The Chairman, Tokyo's Sukiyabashi Jiro and Paris' Le Chateaubriand.
