Must-Try Foods In Jaffa (Yafo) (Israel) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Jaffa (Yafo), Israel

Jaffa, one of the world’s oldest ports, has a mixed heritage influenced by the many civilisations that have passed through its gates over the centuries, including the Ottomans and British. This melting pot of cultures is reflected in its diverse culinary scene. Jaffa has traditionally been known for its abundance of fresh seafood, given its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.

The city also boasts a strong tradition of Arab cuisine, offering a wide variety of Middle Eastern dishes. With Jaffa’s modern renaissance, combining the ancient and the avant-garde, the food scene includes some of the most creative blends of ingredients and culinary techniques from both Israeli and Arab traditions. From traditional markets to chic restaurants, Jaffa is a true gastronomical hub.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Jaffa (Yafo)

1. Shakshouka (Non-Veg) - A dish of eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, and onions, often spiced with cumin.
2. Hummus (Veg) - A creamy spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and garlic.
3. Falafel (Veg) - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas and/or fava beans, commonly served in a pita.
4. Baba Ghanoush (Veg) - A Levantine appetizer of mashed cooked eggplant mixed with tahini, olive oil, and various seasonings.
5. Malabi (Veg) - A creamy milk-based dessert often flavored with rose water and topped with syrup and nuts.
6. Labneh (Veg) - Strained yogurt that is thick and creamy, often served with olive oil and herbs or spread on bread.
7. Knaffe (Veg) - A sweet cheese pastry soaked in a sugar-based syrup, often layered with other ingredients like pistachios.
8. Seafood (Non-Veg) - Fresh fish and other seafood dishes reflecting Jaffa’s heritage as a historic port city.
9. Tabbouleh (Veg) - A fresh salad made of tomatoes, finely chopped parsley, mint, and bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
10. Sabich (Veg) - A pita sandwich filled with fried eggplant, hard boiled eggs, salad, tahini, and amba sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants in Jaffa (Yafo), Israel

Old Man and the Sea (Hakatan Vehayam)

Address: Kedem St 85, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: A variety of fresh seafood and an array of salads (Varies between Veg and Non-Veg)

Abu Hassan

Address: 1 Dolphin St, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: Hummus (Veg)

Dr. Shakshuka

Address: Beit Eshel St 3, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: Shakshuka (Non-Veg if with sausage)

Puaa

Address: Rabi Yohanan St 8, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: Mediterranean-Israeli traditional cuisine (Varies between Veg and Non-Veg)

Al Ashi

Address: Yefet St 180, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: Hummus and Falafel (Veg)

Kalamata

Address: Kikar Kedumim 10, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: Greek and Mediterranean dishes (Varies between Veg and Non-Veg)

Noa Bistro

Address: Rabbi Pinkhas St 3, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: Fusion and contemporary dishes (Varies between Veg and Non-Veg)

Yoezer Wine Bar

Address: Yoezer Ish Habira St 2, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: French and Israeli fusion cuisine (Varies between Veg and Non-Veg)

Shaffa Bar

Address: Flee Market, Rabbi Yohanan St, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: Middle Eastern street food (Varies between Veg and Non-Veg)

Basma Coffee

Address: Yefet St 76, Tel Aviv-Yafo

Famous Food: Arabic coffee and pastries (Veg)