Tel Aviv is the ultimate hipster destination. The hip secular city is at the center of Israeli art and culture, making it the perfect place for Urbanites to cultivate their creativity. Whether in the form of street art, vegan eating, or booming underground nightlife, Tel Aviv is rife with young hipsters looking to chill outside the mainstream. While Neve Tzedek has the vintage clothing and boutique stores part down, if you want in on the true “too-cool-for-school” experience, head to Florentin in south Tel Aviv. With our hipster’s guide to Florentin, you’ll be able to oggle at Israel’s first street art gallery, eat surprisingly authentic mexican food, check out Levinsky street and market, and stay at some funky hostels.
A hipster’s guide to Florentin
While tourists flock to beaches, hipsters flock to Florentin. Here’s our guide to this southern Tel Aviv neighborhood
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Florentin neighborhood guide
This sweet mezcal bar has been serving the hipster neighborhood of Florentin for years. It started as a small neighbourhood bar which then began to receive so much love that the owners eventually had to take over the next door shop to expand the much loved establishment. Mezcal has stood the test of time. The tacos are sensational and wash down wonderfully with the fully stocked variety of tequilas. From tequila tastings to delicious and authentic enchiladas, Mezcal offers a magical meal for all who come and embrace the Mexican cuisine.
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Every city needs a venue like Levontin 7. This venue slash pub offers local artists a chance to play live shows in an intimate setting. Every single night of the week, Levontin 7 hosts a variety of artists, so no matter what your schedule looks like, you always have a chance to get an evening of live music in your week. Additionally, Levontin 7 offers a large selection of high quality alcohol that you may imbibe as you enjoy the sounds of local talent. Check out each month's calendar to see who is part of the the lineup!
Commercializing an essentially anti-establishment outdoor art form runs the risk of compromising its character. Yet, bringing them indoors assures the works’ permanence, allows admirers to own them and helps the artists monetize their talent.
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With a combination of a rustic and industrial feel, this place is perfect for a laid back brunch experience. Treat yourself to classics like an Israeli breakfast that's big enough to share, shakshuka, and malawach. The shabby chic decor transitions perfectly into evening time, when you can dine on a delicious burger and enjoy a drink, as Casbah boasts a vast array of spirits to choose from. Casbah also features artwork from local artists that hangs alongside potted plants on a shelf. Sit back with a hot coffee and enjoy the homey atmosphere.
Deep in the heart of the Carmel Market, amongst the hustle and bustle of shoppers, tourists and exotic characters, you’ll find a little hub of Venezuelan cuisine, which stands out through its appetising smells and welcoming staff. From griddle breads stuffed with chicken and cheese to corn maize ‘pockets’ of shredded beef, black beans, avocado and cheese (which adds that melt-in-your-mouth crispy finish to keep you coming back time and again), the menu options are so diverse that anyone can combine the right flavors to suit their liking. But wait, there’s more! The dedication to producing the freshest-possible food can be witnessed with your very own eyes as it is cooked right in front of you. Grab a Savanna or soft drink and witness the magic in the capital of Tel Aviv street food.
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Located in the Florentin district in Tel Aviv, 600 metres from Suzanne Dellal Dance Show Centre, Neve Tzedek, Florentin House is a eco-friendly property with a restaurant, a shared lounge area with kitchen, and free WiFi throughout. The rooms are spacious and come with an en suite bathroom with shower. Some also have a terrace or a balcony.
Looking for a home cooked meal without the hassle of cooking it? Poc.cafe is a local cafe and eatery that will make you feel instantly at home as you sit in their comfortable outdoor or indoor seating and enjoy freshly baked rustic pastries, handmade fresh sandwiches, and artisanal coffee.
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Buy Kilo opened its doors in 2014, over the ruins of a pharmacy in the Montefiore neighborhood after a well known and loved pharmacist had passed away unexpectedly. Meytal Dror and Gali Lerner got their idea to sell vintage and secondhand clothing by weight from Europe, where the concept is very common. The price range is NIS 100-400 per kilo, according to the category the item belongs to. At the store, you will find a wide range of brands, including high street brands and never-been-worn-before items. Recently, the duo opened another branch in Florentin, and they make sure to match the merch to the crowd of the neighborhood, whose taste, they say, is much bolder.
Chef Avivit Priel Avichai (formerly of Tapeo) and her partner Limor Lami opened Ouzeria less than ten years ago to much critical acclaim. Known as a modern "hamara", a meeting place to drink, play and discuss life, Ouzeria is the classic Florentin neighborhood joint. At Ouzeria Avivit and Limor serve original, Mediterranean-style cuisine accompanied by a simple decor and an appealing long bar offering a selection of anis beverages. Take a seat at the assorted tables beside large windows looking out on the colorful Levinsky district, and soak in the uniquely Israeli atmosphere of the neighboring market. The playlist of music travels from east to west, new to old, encompassing world music, Middle-Eastern music and on to innovative contemporary tunes. Avivit and Limor's goal was to create a refuge from the activities of the day, and they have successfully done so.
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