Best Malabi
in Tel Aviv

Verdict: While internationally famous for gelato, Anita frequently offers malabi-inspired flavors and high-end artisanal versions of the pudding with boutique fruit coulis and fresh nuts. — Neve Tzedek

Queue: Located on the main boutique street of Neve Tzedek.

Go: 8:00 PM for a sweet end to an evening stroll through the neighborhood.

Price: $$

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Verdict: While internationally famous for falafel, their hummus is world-class—exceptionally creamy and served with a smile and a free falafel ball while you wait in line. It’s a high-energy, must-visit culinary destination. — Center

Queue: Near the Dizengoff Center mall.

Go: 11:45 AM or 4:00 PM to avoid the massive afternoon queue.

Price: $$

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Verdict: The most iconic shakshuka spot in Israel. Bino Gabso (the "Doctor") serves authentic Tripolitan-style shakshuka in individual pans, famously paired with thick, rustic bread and a side of spicy house pickles. — Jaffa

Queue: Located just off the Jaffa Clock Tower square.

Go: 1:00 PM for a lively, communal lunch under the hanging pans.

Price: $$

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Verdict: Part of a trendy kiosk chain that sparked a malabi renaissance in the city. They offer both traditional dairy and soy-based vegan versions, with creative toppings like "cookie crumble" and high-quality syrups that go beyond the basic rosewater. — Center

Queue: Located on a major social intersection near the Great Synagogue.

Go: 10:00 PM for a late-night street dessert vibe with the local crowd.

Price: $

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Verdict: Golda is the most popular gelato chain in Israel; their signature "Malabi" flavor captures the pudding's essence perfectly with notes of rosewater, coconut, and crushed nuts in a creamy frozen form. — Center

Queue: On the city’s primary commercial thoroughfare.

Go: 4:00 PM for a mid-afternoon cooling treat.

Price: $$

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Verdict: A legendary Persian family-run restaurant. While they specialize in stews, their "home-style" shakshuka is a local secret, prized for its deep, slow-cooked savory profile. — Florentin / Levinsky Market

Queue: Near the corner of the Levinsky spice market.

Go: 12:30 PM for a traditional working-class lunch.

Price: $

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Verdict: Famous for its sweeping Mediterranean views. Their shakshuka is a premium version, often served with high-quality local feta and accompanied by their legendary array of "meze" starters. — Beachfront

Queue: Situated directly on the sand at Alma Beach.

Go: Friday 10:00 AM for the ultimate seaside weekend brunch.

Price: $$$

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Verdict: Offers a modern, chef-driven interpretation of Ottoman desserts. Their malabi is highly refined, featuring caramelized pistachios and reduced rose petals. — Jaffa

Queue: In the heart of the Jaffa Flea Market area.

Go: 1:30 PM after a stylish Jaffa lunch.

Price: $$$

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Verdict: A Jaffa institution with a quirky, living-room atmosphere. Their shakshuka is classically Mediterranean, featuring a rich, slow-cooked tomato sauce and plenty of fresh local herbs. — Jaffa

Queue: In the center of the Jaffa Flea Market lanes.

Go: 10:30 AM for a bohemian brunch among vintage furniture.

Price: $$

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Verdict: A fourth-generation institution that has modernized without losing its soul. Known for "special" hummus bowls topped with shakshuka, sabich ingredients, or even Mexican-inspired flavors, all served in a vibrant alleyway setting. — Kerem HaTeimanim

Queue: Located in the narrow lanes of the Yemenite Quarter.

Go: 11:00 AM on a Tuesday for a relaxed vibe; Friday mornings are a chaotic street party.

Price: $

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Verdict: A popular local hub where the malabi is a favorite "bar snack" dessert for the neighborhood’s creative crowd. — Jaffa

Queue: In the center of the Flea Market nightlife district.

Go: 10:00 PM as a sweet nightcap with a cocktail.

Price: $$

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