Old Jaffa
Winding stone alleys, arched doorways, hidden art galleries, and that one cat that follows you for blocks. It’s the kind of place that feels ancient, because it is. Perfect for aimless wandering and pretending you’re in a historical drama.
Jaffa Port
Still an active port, still ridiculously pretty. Colorful boats, seafood restaurants, and waves crashing just close enough to keep you alert. Good for a walk, a drink by the water, or watching people get scammed by sellers pushing Dead Sea mud masks.
Shuk HaPishpeshim/The Flea Market
Try saying that three times super fast. Chaotic in the best way. Vintage furniture, antiques, tchotchkes, overpriced candles, street food, and at least one guy selling a record player that doesn’t work. Come ready to dig and maybe bargain a little too confidently.
HaPisga Gardens
A hilltop park with one of the best views in Tel Aviv. You’ll get Roman ruins, city skyline, sea breeze, and at least three wedding photoshoots happening at once (do not be surprised to see Alice and Nitzan taking their wedding pictures there).
The Clock Tower
A Jaffa icon. Built by the Ottomans, now surrounded by taxis, tourists, and cats. You’ll walk by it whether you mean to or not.
Kdumim Square
A small plaza in the heart of Old Jaffa paved, sun-drenched, and flanked by galleries, cafes, and ancient vibes. It’s where people stop to rest, eat ice cream, or check Google Maps without admitting they’re lost.
Ilana Goor Museum
Part art museum, part private home, part "wait, is this a gallery or someone’s living room?" It’s packed with sculptures, furniture, and curiosities collected (and made) by Israeli artist Ilana Goor. Even if you don’t get the art, the building and sea views are worth the ticket.
Ada Hanina
A peaceful little hideout with good coffee and a patio designed for lingering. Milk crates replace chairs and quiet replaces the noise of the busy streets. Also, the pastries are very delicious.
Cafelix
A favorite for coffee connoisseurs. Their beans are roasted in-house, their espressos are very strong, and the vibe is very chill.
Layla Coffee
A hole in the wall (literally) coffee spot on the port. This place offers a great selection of coffees, smoothies, and breakfast bites next to a beautiful sea view.
Hamalabiya
While it's a chain, the location in Jaffa offers prime people watching seats. The dessert place doubles as a game bar where Nitzan currently leads Alice 7 to 1 in shesbesh.
Yaffa Knafeh
An absolute icon in Jaffa, this is the place to get the best knafeh in all of the city. Make sure to get it with the goat ice cream on top and a side of strong coffee or mint tea.
Hummus Abu Hassan
Without a doubt, this is the best hummus in Tel Aviv. An iconic staple in Tel Aviv for decades, there is really nothing more to say other than go and enjoy your meal. Make sure to check out the original location on HaDolfin Street.
Fish & Chips
Grab a lunch tray and grab some bass filets and chips with a few of the port. This place is always busy and for a good reason, the fish is good.
Cafe Puaa
It looks like Nitzan's grandma's old living room, which is fitting since it's right in the middle of the shuk. The menu offers a fresh mix on Israeli classics, and the drinks are always good. True to the flea market spirit, if you fall in love with the plate you’re eating from or the picture on the wall, you can bargain for it on your way out.
Faruk BaShuk
Another fun find in the shuk. The menu offers Israeli classics as well as contemporary dishes. The cocktails are good, and the music is always on point.
Shaffa Bar
We are still in the shuk. And for a good reason. Shaffa is one of the local favorite bars in Jaffa. Good music, good drinks, and good food.
Gemma
A cute little Italian cafe and wine bar located in Noga (the north neighborhood of Jaffa). It is steps away from Jerusalem Boulevard, which also showcases a number of other cafes, restaraunts, and local art shops. Sit outside, enjoy the view, and enjoy the homemade pasta.
Beit Kandinof
Located in old Jaffa, this spot feels like it is frozen in time. The restaurant is designed beautifully with large open arches and old stone walls. The menu is just as thoughtful, as it features ingredients sourced from their own garden and local producers.