Whether you’re looking for some of the best vegan dishes in the world or spending your nights dreaming of Middle Eastern flavors, Israel is a culinary destination not to be missed. Israeli cuisine has been heavily influenced by Asian, African, and European cuisines to create unique and delicious dishes. Even the pickiest eaters will find something to their liking among the wide variety of Israeli dishes available.# Israeli Culinary Culture Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Israeli cuisine has expanded and evolved significantly. However, the region boasts thousands of years of history and culture that are reflected in its cuisine. Initially, it was influenced by what were known as the seven “spices”: olives, figs, dates, pomegranates, wheat, barley, and grapes. Indeed, these foods were readily available and grown locally. They thus shaped much of traditional Israeli cuisine, and you can still find these influences in Israeli dishes today.

Dried Fruits

Don’t just stop by the market to look at the amazing displays of dried fruits; try a few. We recommend dried pineapple and strawberries. Although candied lemon isn’t strictly a dried fruit, it’s something you can’t miss. You’ll probably have a hard time missing it, since Israelis add it to everything, from salads to rice!

Falafels

No surprise here—it’s the region’s most famous dish. In Israel, falafels often include amba, a spicy, marinated mango chutney. If you’re craving an authentic Israeli falafel, head to Falafel Adir in Jerusalem’s German Colony.

Fresh Seafood

The nearby Mediterranean Sea provides the country with a wide variety of seafood and fish. So don’t miss the jackfish with lemon, capers, and onions. The seafood restaurant Uri Buri offers a wide variety of dishes made from fresh seafood. This spot is also known for its sorbets in creative flavors like wasabi or anise, or the huge portions and mezze platters at The Old Man and the Sea in Jaffa.

Jachnun

Jachnun is a slightly sweet puff pastry that has been baked in the oven at a low temperature overnight. It is usually served with tomato sauce, hard-boiled eggs, and a spicy sauce. Israelis eat this dish for breakfast or as a snack during the day. Jachnun can be found at the Shuk HaCarmel market in Tel Aviv.

Jerusalem Bagels

Jerusalem bagels are oval-shaped, unbaked, and almost always topped with sesame seeds. Unlike Western bagels, Jerusalem bagels are not eaten with cream cheese but with olive oil and a blend of aromatic herbs. Although it is a common food in Jerusalem, it makes an excellent snack during the day.

Knafeh

This dessert sparks a bit of controversy, as it is technically a Palestinian dish. This sweet cheese pastry is soaked in a syrup flavored with rose water or orange blossom water, all topped with chopped pistachios. Try it at Knafeh Noga in Jaffa, rightly recommended by Tablet magazine for its unique flavors.

Kofta B’siniyah

Kofta b’siniyah are meatballs made from lamb and beef, and are one of the most beloved foods among both locals and tourists. Typically served with bread, pickled cucumbers, and a plate of hummus, Kofta B’siniyah is one of Jerusalem’s most ubiquitous dishes

Sabich

You’ve probably heard of shawarma and falafel, but have you heard of sabich? This specialty of the Iraqi Jewish community combines fried eggplant with hard-boiled eggs, hummus, fresh salad, and a spicy sauce. It’s a vegetarian’s dream that even non-vegetarians would love.

Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a hot dish made with poached eggs served with a spicy tomato sauce flavored with cumin. Although it originated in Tunisia, it gained popularity in Israel in the 1950s, when hundreds of Jews from North Africa immigrated there. For the best versions, head to Bénédict in Tel Aviv or Dr. Shakshuka in Jaffa.

Here is a short, non-exhaustive list of the best Israeli dishes—you’ll be spoiled for choice! Feel free to reach out to our guides to create your own off-the-beaten-path trip.