Old Jaffa is not only a great place to visit, but also a remarkable culinary spot. Alongside many fine Jaffa restaurants in front of the Mediterranean, there are many small places serving typical Israeli food, many of which are well known amongst tourists as well as local residents.
There are many places serving Humus in Tel Aviv and Jaffa, and each resident will recommend his favorite. It seems like there’s only one consensus in this field: Abu Hassan (Ali Karavan), at 1 Dolphin Street, which is locally known as the ‘Mecca’ of Humus in Tel Aviv. It has been serving the best Humus in Tel Aviv/Jaffa for over 40 years, and is well known throughout Israel as one of the best Jaffa restaurants. Abu Hassan is open only till noon and it takes a while to get a sit there, but it is well worth it. The menu is very limited – only Humus, Masbacha and pita-bread, served with a fresh onion and lemon juice. You usually share your sit with strangers, and once finished, you are expected to leave and let the people standing in line take your place. Surely Humus fans must check out this place at least once.
The most famous bakery in Old Jaffa is Abulafia at 1 Yeffeth Street, few meters from the Clock Tower. For years it has been a symbol of Jewish-Arab coexistence, and still serves some of the best baked goods in town.
Poa, at 8 Rabi Yochanan Street, in the heart of the Flea Market, is one of the most unique Jaffa restaurants. It is a colorful bistro with lovely atmosphere and young clientele, which captures the true spirit of the city. All the furniture in Poa is unique second-hand items, and all of them are for sale, so if you see anything you like, you can actually take it home with you.
Another good option in Old Jaffa, especially for breakfast, is the nearby Libyan restaurant, Dr. Shakshuka at 3 Beth Eshel Street. The Shakshuka (fried vegetable and eggs fried in tomato sauce) served there is amongst the best in town, and the Doctor himself has a very interesting life story – ask about it while enjoying his food.
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