Buzzing around Tel Aviv

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So where to begin.
I was never the queen of coffee. I never ‘needed’ coffee to get me going. I honestly was most excited for ‘gas station’ coffee.
But coffee is a language in Tel Aviv. It’s one of the most diverse and discussed products of Israel. People have every kind of opinion about their coffee. Where they go? Who has the best coffee? How they make it at home?
I started my coffee tour a couple months ago. My clients were requesting early sessions and I happily obliged. So what to do at 9:00AM when my work day is half done? I decided to make my mornings an adventure. I started to walk the city hunting down + trying local coffee.

It’s a start

Of course this is not the complete list! But it’s all my real opinions!
How to get started?
*Make a list first. I like to find them on instagram and see what makes them uniquely different.
*Ask the barista what is the best item at their shop. Tell them flavors or notes you like too.
*Try something different. If you have a ‘go to’ coffee order try other styles.
*Be honest. You don’t have to like everywhere you go.
*Support small business. Post corona times are tough… don’t forget to tip!
*Bring a friend! It’s more fun! (and you can split more sweets!)

Here we go… the big list and some reviews! In no specific order.

Mela: Located in Basel. Great combo meals (coffee + pastry). Beautiful sandwiches. Even a ‘McMuffin’. I got an Americana Hot with a delicious biscuit. (butter + jam of course)
We Like You Too: Two locations. My go to is an Americano here. Open on Shabbat. SUPER busy. Definitely a spot to be ‘seen’. Ben Gurion location has been redone. And more seating.
WayCup Coffee: Two locations. Great spot to sit with friends. My favorite spot for Cold Brew.
Loveat: I keep trying to like it here. But not a winner for me. Did try their matcha instead. Not very good.
Nisso Deli Cafe: Location in Jaffa. Opens a little later for a cafe 9:00 but I really liked it here. Came back after trying their coffee for a small bite. A happy mistake I stumbled upon + glad I found it! Worth a visit south!
Milk Bakery: Wow! Definitely a spot to hit in Jaffa. Super great pastries and coffee. Prepare for a line, treats are a little richer but worth it.
Ada Hanina : Serious coffee talkers only! Located in Jaffa. A little to intense for me. Better know your beans (or ask for help). Not as ‘user friendly’ but still super friendly staff.
Origem: Been wanting to go here before quarantine even. Maybe best beans in Tel Aviv. I got an amazing pour over. They really help you pick the best bean for you.
Bakery: French inspired. Known of course for their baked goods. But had a tasty latte from here. There is always a line.
Maison Kayser: Located in the Namal. Super hyped French bakery that open this year. There is sometimes a line. More people there for the instagram. Pastries may be authentic… coffee was not.
Lahmanina Located near Habima. One of my favorite Friday spots. Get your desserts + pastries there. Order the Profé it’s an ice coffee without milk but taste frothy. (No clue how but I think it’s magical).
Mazeh Cafe Stumbled upon by accident. Cute smaller shop. Ordered an easy Iced americano. And try the alfajores
Buti & Co: Dizengoff Square. Winning the best location award. But not my favorite coffee. Just most efficient + opened on the weekend.
CoffeeShop 51: Fun spot to sit outside when it’s not corona. They had a great post of coffee descriptions and how to order it. A little more bitter of an ice coffee. I did not love the containers.
Aroma the ‘Starbucks’ of Israel. Just get the blended iced coffee. That’s what they are known for.. but be prepared to be on a sugar high after.
Cafelix: A little hidden and totally worth it. Super tasty roasted beans. Did not see much food options but coffee was great.
Papua Love this little neighborhood spot near the Kerem. I would have gone back more often if I could. Lots of little bites to try.
Grasyani House: my favorite. Off King George. I got my normal Americano… and was not drinkable.
Under the Tree: One of my favorite spots! I love their Chai Latte + Cookies! My favorite treat. Try their food too and delivery even better. Located off Ben Yehuda + Jabotinsky.
Cafe Xoho: The local ‘Cheers’ for any Olim. Craving a little feel of America? Come here! Best bagels in town. Coffee a must. Looking for matcha? One of the few places to get it (and get it good!) Open Shabbat.
HOC: Tops my list. I have never had a bad experience here. I love their coffee, chai, matcha. They serve the pastries from Fika (listed below).
Fika: Swedish bakery and coffee shop. Their sweet pastries are a hit. Not as into their savory options.
Blue Doors Cafe: Cute coffee corner in the Shuk. I would wait to go in the summer when you can sit outside. Small location. Would try and go back for a sip of wine instead of coffee next time.
Da Da Coffee: On the go walking down Ben Gurion from the beach. Just an easy to-go spot. Nothing fancy. But sometimes that’s all we need.
Bread + Co: Just smell the deliciousness. Love all their baked goods (and challah). I go for the easier coffee options, would go here more for the baked goods.
Le Moulin: Coffee was just ok, but man the smell of this French bakery beckons you in!
Cafe Shneor: For some reason has not won me over but a quick spot for an iced americano as you walk towards Gan Meir.
Columbus Cafe: Opened up right before the 2nd lockdown and has been very proactive on social media. Come for the muffins! Best ‘Americanized’ muffins (plus Israeli STUFFED muffins).
Nordinyo: A little fancier but delicious sandwiches. Coffee is pretty standard to me.
Shroitmann Bakery: Get the pretzel buns ASAP! Coffee was easy, delicious.. but here for the pretzel buns! I went to the location in Hotel Saul.

“Winners!
Best Chai: Under the Tree
Best Matcha: Cafe Xoho
Best Cold Brew: WayCup Coffee
Best Americana (hot or cold): We really like you too
Best Coffee Breakfast Combo: Mela
Best Bean to Brew at Home: Origem.”