Yasmin Kaye

You don’t have to dine at a fancy restaurant in Israel to enjoy fine fare. These bars know their food just as well as they know their alcohol, says Yasmin Kaye   Tel Aviv     Abraxas This popular spot in the heart of Tel Aviv's vibrant nightlife district offers a varied selection of events. You can catch great gigs by local bands, enjoy an eclectic array of DJ sets and soak up the hedonistic atmosphere of Lilienblum Street, all while enjoying delightful food prepared by star chef Eyal Shani. You can order seasonal dishes conjured up by Shani at his Abraxas North restaurant next door, based on a changing list of fresh ingredients. Grab a seat at the bar and soak up the historic atmosphere at this long-lived and well-loved place. 40 Lilienblum St (03-5104435). Daily 21:30-last customer   © PR   Barbunia Just across the street from the popular Barbunia fish restaurant, you can find the Barbunia Bar – a welcoming, slightly rowdy hangout hidden behind an unassuming wooden door. Despite the inconspicuous facade, the place has long since been discovered by an unpretentious local crowd, who pop in for a quick beer with friends or while away a few happy hours over plates of food and some wine. Though the menu focuses primarily on an inviting selection of fresh fish and seafood, a good way to kick off a meal at Barbunia Bar is by sharing some vegetarian mezze, which include a tasty selection of salads and dips. Greasier, bar-style food like fried calamari or garlic prawns compleme