Top 4 Falafel Places Locals Love in Tel Aviv

Israel is a veritable foodie paradise and no more so than in Tel Aviv, with probably the most vibrant culinary scene in the country. And it’s not just all about chef restaurants and upscale fusion cuisine either - Israeli street food is incredibly popular, with the beloved falafel coming in as one of the country’s favourite dishes. Crispy outside, fluffy inside. Discover where to find the best falafel in Tel Aviv, from iconic street stalls to hidden local favorites across the city.

For anyone who doesn’t know, falafel is one of the Middle East’s most popular ‘go to’ foods - small chickpea balls, seasoned with herbs and spices, then deep-fried, and served with vegetables, salads and creamy tahini)  in soft pita. Fresh, simple and satisfying, it’s easy to add extra toppings (think eggplant slices, chips, and spicy mango sauce) to make every mouthful even more of a joy.

Scattered across the city, on neighbourhood corners, at Tel Aviv street markets and in ‘hole in the wall’ joints, falafel is a tradition all of its own, from packed spots in the city centre to hidden gems in less touristy areas. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for vegetarians and vegans, each bite will leave you thinking you’ve died and gone to heaven.  

So where in Tel Aviv should you start your search for this Quintessential street food? Don’t worry - we’ve got you covered. All we’d recommend is that you arrive with an appetite, because falafel this good is worth skipping breakfast for… 

1. Ha Kosem’ - Shlomo ha Melech 1, close to the Dizengoff Centre

Considered by many locals (including the author) as - hands down - the best ‘go-to’ falafel place in Tel Aviv, ‘HaKosem’ (which means ‘the Magician’ in Hebrew) never disappoints. Constantly busy (the lunchtime line is legendary) it’s known for its top-quality ingredients, generous portions and staff who hand out hot falafel balls to hungry but patient waiting customers.  
As well as the crispy, beautifully-spiced falafel, they serve shawarma (keeping the meat eaters happy), hummus plates and their famous ‘Rimonada’ drink (pomegranate and lemonade juice) which is highly recommended. Don’t come to the White City without trying this spot - and their outside tables means you’re likely to make new friends too.

Ha Kosem - Shlomo Ha Melech 1, tel: 03-525-2033 

2. Falafel Razon

Falafel Razon is beloved by its local patrons for its generous portions, the ingredients and great prices - indeed, it’s probably the cheapest falafel you’ll find in the city. Located on the bustling King George Street, for the princely sum of 8 NIS ($2.50) you’ll receive a large pita, stuffed with six falafel balls topped with Israeli salad and pickles then drizzled with tahini.
The queue, whilst long, moves quickly (the staff are very efficient) and once you’ve grabbed your lunch, and a drink, look for an empty bench (there’s no seating there). In a city known for its expensive prices, this is the place to head if you’re looking for bang for your buck.
Falafel Razon:  King George 17, tel: 050-720-2099

Falafel bowl, not just in a pita

3. Falafel Gabay

Slap bang in the heart of the city, on trendy Bograshov street, Gabay is another classic city spot, renown for its generous salads, soft pita and falafel that's crispy on the outside yet wonderfully fluffy on the inside.  Close to one of Tel Aviv’s amazing beaches, it’s a great place to grab and go, if you’re heading down to (or up from) the shore.

With helpful and warm staff, and modest prices, you can’t go wrong with what you order - whether it’s a classic falafel, hearty vegetable soup, or a plate of their famous schnitzels, dumplings and kubbeh. Everything is homemade, with love and care, and whether you sit down for a meal or take food away, you’ll leave with a big smile on your face. Highly recommended.

Falafel Gabay: Bograshov 25. tel: 03-629-7060

4. Jonny’s (aka Falafel Banin)

This is where you head if you’re looking for a gluten-free version of these delicious balls. The owner, Jonny, isn’t just passionate about his craft, but he really wants to make sure celiacs aren’t left out, which is why he has a dedicated air-fryer just for their fare!
The unique selling point of Banin is that the falafel comes with a huge fried potato on the top!  Everything’s written in Hebrew but they’ll get by if you don’t read it…the falafel itself is light and if you like your food with a kick, then let them know and they’’ give you extra spicy sauce!  

It’s a tiny place with no seating, so just head outside and enjoy your food with the locals. Oh, and it’s only open until 6pm, so make sure you head there early in the day - you don’t want to be disappointed.  

Falafel Banin: Tzernichowski 4, tel: 03 525-5434