Makhimba Simon
Google
If you're in Tel Aviv and you're lucky enough to be near Dizengoff Street, called the "5th Avenue" of the TLV or so I've been told, do yourself a favor and check out this amazing restaurant. I ate here twice during my week-long stay in TLV and honestly, I would’ve gone back a third time if my schedule had allowed. Also I plan to come back and eat here every night lol.
The staff here is exceptional. They are warm, welcoming, and attentive. Even though their English wasn’t perfect, they went out of their way to make sure I felt comfortable, understood the menu, and had everything I needed. It’s clear they care deeply about providing a great experience for their guests.
Now, let’s talk food. This place takes the concept of culinary excellence to another level. The octopus dish with brioche was a standout. The octopus was tender and perfectly cooked, and the brioche was buttery and delicious—an unexpected but brilliant pairing. I’m not even usually a fan of beets, but the salad with beets and pistachios was so well-executed that it made me reconsider my opinion of them. The vinaigrette was sharp and tangy, cutting through the earthy flavor of the beets in a way that completely transformed the dish.
On my second night, I tried for the bread plate, which came with butter that was impossibly smooth and flavorful. I have a bread + butter addiction when I leave the USA. I paired that with the ceviche with almond milk. Trust me, I was skeptical at first—it sounded unusual, but it ended up being one of my favorite dishes of the entire trip. Dipping the bread in the ceviche was an experience I won’t forget.
For my main, I had the lamb dish, which was a kind of stuffed lamb dumpling. It was extremely sour but still deeply satisfying. Finally, I let the waiter pick his favorite dessert for me, since there was no written menu and the language barrier made it hard for him to describe the dishes to me. What I got was a white custard-like pudding with white chocolate, pistachios, and candied cashews. It was absolutely heavenly—smooth, rich, and the perfect end to an unforgettable meal.
This restaurant made my time in Tel Aviv even more special. The combination of amazing food, attentive service, and a warm atmosphere made it a highlight of my visit. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this place is definitely worth checking out. Also, sit outside alone if possible. I love dining alone because I can really focus on the food and myself!