Must-Try Foods In Sea Of Galilee (Tiberias) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Sea of Galilee, Tiberias, Israel

The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Kinneret, has a rich food heritage deeply entwined with the history and culture of the region. Tiberias and the surrounding areas are known for their abundance of fresh produce, fish, and traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. The lake itself is famous for "St. Peter's Fish," a type of tilapia endemic to its waters, and fish has been a staple diet for the local population for thousands of years. Agriculture in the fertile regions around the lake ensures a rich variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, which are essential to local cuisine.

The intertwining of various cultural influences, including Jewish, Arab, and Mediterranean, is reflected in the region's diverse culinary offerings. Over centuries, the exchange of ingredients and methods between these cultures has given rise to a unique gastronomic landscape in Tiberias and around the Sea of Galilee.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Sea of Galilee, Tiberias, Israel

1. Falafel - Veg: Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, seasoned with herbs and spices, often served in pita bread with salad.
2. St. Peter's Fish - Non-Veg: A local tilapia, traditionally served grilled or fried with various side dishes like tahini, salad, and bread.
3. Hummus - Veg: Creamy spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, typically served with olive oil and pita bread.
4. Baba Ganoush - Veg: A smoky eggplant dip blended with tahini, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, often garnished with parsley and served with flatbread.
5. Tabbouleh - Veg: Fresh herb salad primarily made with finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, onion, and bulgur, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
6. Shakshouka - Veg: A dish of poached eggs in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, onions, often spiced with cumin and served in a cast-iron pan with bread.
7. Kebabs - Non-Veg: Skewered and grilled meat pieces, commonly made from chicken or lamb, seasoned with local spices and served with grilled vegetables.
8. Labneh - Veg: Thick, yogurt-based cheese, often seasoned with herbs and olive oil, served as a dip or spread.
9. Mujadara - Veg: A lentil and rice dish typically accompanied by caramelized onions, served with a side of salad or yogurt.
10. Knafeh - Veg: A sweet pastry made from thin noodle-like phyllo dough layered with sweet cheese and soaked in a sugar-based syrup, finished with a sprinkling of pistachios.

Top Famous Restaurants in Sea of Galilee, Tiberias, Israel

1. Decks Restaurant

Address: Gdud Barak Rd., Tiberias, Israel

Famous Food: St. Peter's Fish (Non-Veg)

2. Magdalena Restaurant

Address: Migdal Junction, Migdal, Israel

Famous Food: Lamb Kebabs (Non-Veg)

3. Avi's Restaurant

Address: 3 HaYarden Street, Tiberias, Israel

Famous Food: Mixed Grill platter (Non-Veg)

4. Little Tiberias

Address: 10 Hakishon Street, Tiberias, Israel

Famous Food: Fresh Fish from the Galilee (Non-Veg)

5. Tanureen Restaurant

Address: Alon Hagalil, Israel

Famous Food: Lamb Chops (Non-Veg)

6. Ein Gev Fish Restaurant

Address: Ein Gev, Sea of Galilee

Famous Food: St. Peter's Fish (Non-Veg)

7. Habikta

Address: Hukok Junction, Israel

Famous Food: Stuffed Vegetables (Veg)

8. Pagoda

Address: Yigal Allon Promenade, Tiberias, Israel

Famous Food: Asian Fusion dishes (Veg/Non-Veg)

9. Schwartzman Dairy Restaurant

Address: Kibbutz Ginosar, Israel

Famous Food: Assorted Cheese Platter (Veg)

10. Gai Beach Hotel Restaurants

Address: Gai Beach, Tiberias, Israel

Famous Food: Breakfast Buffet with a wide range of options (Veg/Non-Veg)