Top 12 Italian restaurants in little Tel Aviv

Quite possibly one of the most charming restaurants in Tel Aviv is this sweet little spot, on the corner of an unassuming street off of Allenby, home to a minimalist, one-room dining room fit with a handful of tables, white doily tablecloths and glistening wine glasses. Chef Tamar Cohen Tzedek has been churning out Italian classics for three years now out of this humble, yet sophisticated eatery, but she has been a consistent go-to on the Tel Aviv restaurant scene for 15 years with previous restaurants like Vince & Tamar and Cucina Tamar. 

From the kitchen of young and acclaimed Chef David Frankel, Pronto’s dedication to seasonal ingredients, homemade pastas and inspirational elements in every dish make this place stand out. Nestled behind Rothschild Blvd, the pleasant aromas of marinara and fresh parmigiano will tantalize your senses. Step out of Israel for the evening and into an Italian home kitchen where Frankel’s attention to detail is apparent in his regular menu and creative seasonal and dinner menus.

When Roni Belfer and Motti Sofer created La Repubblica, they strove to develop a restaurant that upheld their core culinary values of creating local, seasonal and fresh food, while continuously preserving rich Italian culinary heritage. Many of the restaurant’s vegetables and herbs are grown fresh in their very own backyard garden. 

As if ripped out of a scene straight from a 1980s movie in the heart of Italy, this affordable and eccentric restaurant has a slew of loyal diners that continue to return night after night. It’s no surprise why either. Their mouth watering lasagna that’s large enough to float amongst your friends and still feel full, is rich, creamy and delectable.

Nearly always buzzing with a young, hip crowd, Magazzino serves up Italian comfort food at reasonable prices. The tabun (clay oven) is just as busy as the atmosphere with creative pizzas coming out at all times, from the classics to funky renditions like the chili cheese and gorgonzola or the spicy eggplant version.  A fun spot for cocktails and bites.  

Located in the heart of Shuk HaPishpeshim (Jaffa Flea Market) is this charming Italian restaurant with a warm and lively presence. Tables with bright and colorful gingham tablecloths line the cobblestone road outside. Everything is handmade, from the artisan breads and pizzas to the lip-smacking pastas and the melt-in-your mouth gnocchi. 

Quattro’s modern interpretation of Italian cuisine pairs perfectly with its electric and extraordinary interior. Guests at the restaurant will instantly find themselves in the presence of fine food, sublime service, and a menu that features a wide range of Italian options. Focusing on light, innovative plates, Quattro puts a modern Mediterranean spin on the classic Italian meal. With an extensive wine list, full bar, and daily specials, first timers will find themselves coming back again and again.

Huddled in the newly opened Sarona is an historic German Templar compound established in the 19th century that now flaunts a slew of boutiques and restaurants fit for couples, friends and families. Third time's the charm as Rustico’s other two branches in Tel Aviv are humming with patrons from all over the world. Begin with beef Carpaccio and a fresh salad, take a breather with a gorgeously homemade brick-stone oven focaccia and end off slurping up a perfectly creamy pasta. 

Fittingly located in Neve Tzedek, the most romantic and quaint neighborhood in Tel Aviv, lies a lovely little authentic Italian restaurant named Beccafico. The menu here changes often, as they serve only the freshest produce that’s in season. It can be a challenge to find a truly well-made pizza in Israel, but take solace in the fact that Beccafico lovingly creates other-worldly homemade pies with thin and crispy crust. And don’t forget to put on some decadent toppings such as goat cheese, sweet potato, and smoked goose.