Getting there
El Al offers direct flights from Boston to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.
Where to stay
Tel Aviv is blessed with a crop of beautiful boutique hotels. There are less expensive options, but treat yourself to at least a night in one of the swanky and stylish new hotels. At the very least, have a drink at the Norman or a meal at the Hotel Montefiore.
Brown Beach House or Brown TLV Hotel— Same owners, very different locations. The original Brown is a quick walk to the fashionable Neve Tzedek district. Brown Beach House feels like a slice of Miami on Israel’s Mediterranean coast. Beach House: 64 Ha-Yarkon St., brownhotels.com, +972-3-760-5000. Brown TLV, 25 Kalisher St., +972-3-717-0200. Starting at $175 a night.
Hotel Montefiore — The 1922 private residence reopened in 2008 as a meticulously restored 12-room hotel with a bustling restaurant and bar scene. It’s ideally situated close to the action on Rothschild Boulevard. 36 Montefiore St., www.hotelmontefiore.co.il, +972-3-564-6100. Starting at $365 a night (look for lower rates in the off season).
The Norman— Since opening two years ago, the Norman has attracted jetsetters and celebrities, along with armloads of accolades. It is a stunning combination of architecture and design. Suites are all uniquely designed with furniture made specifically for the hotel. There’s a rooftop infinity pool and sundeck for relaxing before heading downstairs to the Norman’s restaurant and bar. 23-25 Nachmani St., thenorman .com, 800-398-8751, Starting at $450 a night.
Where to eat
Some may argue the claim, but Tel Aviv is Israel’s culinary capital. Most restaurants are not kosher, and plenty are open Friday and Saturday. You will eat falafel (or go home), but that should be the very beginning of your dining experiences.
Manta Ray— The day I had lunch here, the ocean was rough and surfers were charging into the sea to maximize the experience. I had a front row seat for it all. Manta Ray is a solid choice for breakfast and lunch (it’s easier to get a table). I picked at plates of mezze and Balkan bread and gazed at the beach, which straddles Jaffa and Tel Aviv. Come early (or at off-hours) to get a seat on the terrace. 703 Yehezkel Kaufman St., mantaray.co.il, +972-3-517-4773.
Shpagat — It’s a gay club at night, but during the day Shpagat is a casual place to grab coffee, something to eat, or a cocktail at happy hour. The scene is very friendly and very mixed. You’ll feel even more welcome if you happen to be insanely attractive. 43 Nahalat Binyamin St., www.facebook.com/shpagatlv, +972-3-560-1758.
Ha’achim — Follow the locals into this tucked away bar and grill at the end of Gabirol Street for tapas and outdoor seating on warm days and nights. But make it a point to find Ha’achim (the Brothers) for Friday and Saturday brunch. It’s all-you-can-eat with salads, breads, cheeses, fresh grilled vegetables, shakshuka, smoked fish, and fruit. Call ahead for a table. 12 Ibn Gabirol St., www.facebook.com/haachim ,+972-3-691-7171.
North Abraxas— Every vacation deserves at least one splurge meal at a celebrity-owned restaurant. Plan yours at chef Eyal Shani’s consistently solid outpost. Make a reservation before you depart, or, if you want to see the culinary action, sit at the bar. The cauliflower is mandatory. Shani excels at hearty fare such as beef and lamb. It’s a comfortable, elegant evening. 40 Lilienblum St. , +972-3-516-6660.
