Gluten Free Tel Aviv: The Best Travel Guide For Celiacs
Tel Aviv, often referred to as “The White City”, or “The City that never sleeps” is a vibrant, cosmopolitan hub located along Israel’s Mediterranean coastline. Tel Aviv seamlessly blends historical richness with contemporary culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe. Known for its stunning beaches, thriving arts scene, and innovative culinary landscape, Tel Aviv offers an eclectic mix of experiences that cater to all tastes and interests gluten free or not. Whether you’re exploring the bustling Carmel Market, strolling through the picturesque streets of Neve Tzedek, or enjoying the city’s renowned nightlife, Tel Aviv is a place where tradition meets modernity, creating an unforgettable urban adventure.
Gluten Free Tel Aviv is a paradise for celiacs! Every corner of this vibrant city, from trendy cafes to bustling markets, is brimming with mouthwatering dishes tailor-made for celiacs. Trendy cafes offer gluten-free bread and cheerful falafel stands with fluffy chickpea pitas – celiac was a breeze! Hummus bowls burst with roast veggies, lamb skewers smoked perfectly, and gluten-free and often dairy free desserts made me enjoy every bite. The “gluten-free” label isn’t just a token tickbox here; it is an invitation to a world of vibrant flavors and culinary delight. So pack your swimsuit, your dancing shoes, and your appetite – Tel Aviv awaits with open arms and gluten-free feasts for all!
Fun fact: Tel Aviv has over 5,000 restaurants ready to feed your wanderlust (and your appetite!). That is more restaurants per capita than Paris! With an estimated 200 dedicated vegan restaurants, Tel Aviv is a global leader in vegan cuisine.
Attractions in Tel Aviv
The following attractions provide a glimpse into Tel Aviv’s diverse and dynamic offerings, combining history, culture, and contemporary urban living. Add them to your next visit.
1. Tel Aviv Beaches: Relax and soak up the sun at Tel Aviv’s beautiful beaches. From the lively Gordon Beach to the serene Frishman Beach, these sandy stretches offer opportunities for swimming, water sports, and seaside dining.
2. Jaffa Old City: Wander through the ancient streets of Jaffa’s Old City, characterized by its cobblestone alleys, art galleries, and flea market. Visit the historic Clock Tower, enjoy panoramic views, and soak in the rich history of this port town.
3. Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel): Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Carmel Market, one of Tel Aviv’s most famous markets. Experience the vibrant colors, scents, and tastes while browsing through stalls selling fresh fruits, spices, street food, and souvenirs.
4. Rothschild Boulevard: Stroll along the tree-lined Rothschild Boulevard, known for its Bauhaus architecture and vibrant street life. Admire the distinct buildings, stop by trendy cafes, and explore Independence Hall, where Israel’s independence was declared in 1948.
5. Neve Tzedek: Explore Tel Aviv’s oldest neighborhood, Neve Tzedek, characterized by its narrow alleys, boutique shops, art galleries, and charming architecture. Discover its bohemian vibe and visit attractions like the Suzanne Dellal Center for Dance and Theater.
6. Sarona Market: Sarona Market’s allure goes beyond a food court. It’s a sensory feast, where gourmet groceries dance with fragrant spices and vibrant produce whispers tempting tales. Artisan chocolates tempt alongside sun-ripened fruit, while live music mingles with the clatter of satisfied forks. In Sarona, the act of choosing a meal becomes an adventure, and every bite a vibrant celebration of local bounty.
7. Ibn Gvirol Street: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, bustling with various shops, cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues. It’s a lively street that offers a blend of contemporary city life with a touch of historical charm. The street is popular among locals and tourists alike due to its eclectic mix of stores, boutiques, and culinary options, making it an ideal spot for shopping, dining, and experiencing the city’s vibrant energy.
Gluten Free Dining in Tel-Aviv
According to Jewish dietary laws, meat and dairy should not be consumed together. This separation includes not only eating them together but also cooking, serving, or using the same utensils or cookware for both. So remember, if you dine in a kosher restaurant, it will either be a meat restaurant or a dairy restaurant. In Tel Aviv about 40% of the restaurants are kosher. The non-kosher restaurants don’t separate meat and dairy and also serve unkosher food like shrimp and pork.
Gluten Free Tel Aviv Fine Dining
Claro – A Culinary Oasis in the Heart of Tel Aviv’s Sarona Market
Amidst the bustling stalls and vibrant energy of Tel Aviv’s Sarona Market, lies an island of serene sophistication: Claro. This award-winning restaurant, helmed by renowned chef Ran Schmueli, is more than just a place to eat, it’s an experience for the senses and a unique atmosphere.
Farm-to-Table Symphony: Claro’s philosophy revolves around fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farms. Each dish on the menu feels like a vibrant ode to the land, bursting with colors and flavors that reflect the Mediterranean essence. Claro’s culinary artistry doesn’t shy away from bold combinations and inventive techniques like layering dishes with unexpected textures and unexpected flavor pairings. From the smoky depth of eggplant roasted over open flames to the delicate sweetness of figs drizzled with honey, each bite is a journey of discovery.
A Feast for the Eyes: The beauty of Claro extends beyond the plate. The open kitchen invites diners into the heart of the culinary action, while the sleek, minimalist design creates a sense of intimacy and elegance. And most importantly, their staff are well-versed in gluten-free diets and go the extra mile to avoid cross-contamination. Don’t hesitate to ask about off-menu options – they’ll love crafting a custom meal just for you.
Hudson Brasserie
Tucked away on Tel Aviv’s bustling HaBarzel Street, Hudson Brasserie is more than just a steakhouse. It’s a haven for carnivores and gluten-free gourmands alike. Forget the frustration of limited options! Hudson’s dedicated gluten-free menu is a symphony of flavor, mirroring their regular menu with equal flair. Imagine juicy steaks grilled to perfection, accompanied by fluffy gf bread made in-house. Savor the melt-in-your-mouth richness of creamy mac and cheese, crafted with gluten-free noodles that hold their own against the cheesy goodness. At Hudson, gluten-free dining isn’t an afterthought; it’s a celebration of taste and inclusivity. Raise a glass (and a fork) to worry-free indulgence, where every bite is a testament to culinary excellence, with or without gluten.
Make sure you reserve a table ahead of time!
Gluten Free Tel Aviv Bakeries
Gluteria
A dedicated gluten-free restaurant and bakery in the north of Tel Aviv. The perfect place if you’re looking for delicious breakfast, healthy breads, pastries, cakes, and a wide variety of dishes look no further than Gluteria. There is no more need to go to the prepacked – here, fresh-baked gluten-free breads, pastries, and pizzas emerge from the oven daily, bursting with flavor and tempting aromas.
Italian Restaurants in Tel Aviv
The following Italian Restaurants offer a wonderful dining experience with great care in regard to cross contamination. Worth a visit when you are in Tel Aviv.
Pizza Nono
This popular pizzeria offers a wide variety of gluten-free pizza options, all made with a commitment to safe and careful preparation. Not 100% dedicated gluten free but Pizza Nono are very well trained to keep the gluten out of the GF dishes. Once I was told that the owners were haveing celaic in the family and therefore they understand the importance of using separate utensils and cooking surfaces to avoid cross-contamination. The result? A delicious pizza that tastes just as good as the traditional version and looks beautiful as well.
La Lasagna
La Lasagne – in the heart of popular Dizengoff Street, has a full gluten-free menu and dedicated kitchen. Offering fluffy, homemade gluten free pasta that twirls around rich sauces, GF Gnocchi, GF Brusceta, GF Pizza, GF beer and of course GF desert . Every creamy lasagna dream and cheesy pesto delight can be yours, crafted with the same love and flavor as their gluten counterparts. In addition, this Italian restaurant is certified kosher.
Indian Restaurants in Gluten Free Tel Aviv
Tandoori
This Indian restaurant offers a wide variety of gluten-free options, including mouth-watering tandoori dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. The restaurant is knowledgeable about gluten-free dining and takes care to ensure that all dishes are safe and delicious!
Best Falafel and Shawarma in Tel Aviv – Hakosem
Hakosem is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Tel Aviv, known for its delicious Israeli street food. While this eatery is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, it offers a variety of gluten-free options, including their famous falafel (vegan options) and shawarma served in gluten-free pita bread, which is a rarity in many restaurants. While Hakosem can get quite busy, the staff are knowledgeable about celiac disease, they do take extra care to minimize cross-contamination and are happy to answer any questions you may have about their gluten-free options.
Johnny’s Falafel
If you’re looking for a delicious and safe gluten-free falafel experience in Tel Aviv, be sure to check out Johnny’s Falafel. Located close to the Carmel Market, this beloved street food stand is a local favorite for its fresh, flavorful falafel. The best part? Johnny’s Falafel offers gluten-free falafel, made with a mixture of chickpeas and herbs, and fried in a dedicated gluten-free fryer, a natural choice for quick bite. The staff at Johnny’s Falafel are knowledgeable about celiac disease and gluten-free dining, and take extra care to ensure that all gluten-free orders are prepared safely and with minimal cross-contamination.
Best Hamburgers in Tel Aviv
Prozdor
Prozdor is a popular burger joint in Tel Aviv that offers a unique dining experience for celiacs. What sets Prozdor apart from other burger places is that they offer gluten-free buns, so you can enjoy a burger with fries out of their dedicated fryer. All their burgers are made with fresh, high-quality natural ingredients, and you can customize your order with different toppings and sauces. They also offer two gluten-free desserts and a beer.
Agadir
Agadir Burgers, a beloved chain in Tel Aviv, offers a delightful selection of gluten-free burgers. Known for its high-quality ingredients and innovative recipes, Agadir ensures that gluten-free diners will enjoy a flavorful and satisfying burger experience with perfectly seasoned patties, fresh toppings, and of course gluten-free buns.
A trendy and delicous burger restaurant in the heart of Tel Aviv. Their gluten free buns are amazing and their fries are GF as well. This is a treat you shouldn’t miss when visiting Tel Aviv.
Grocery stores
Craving fresh bread, sauces (soy sauce!), and treats without the worry? These supermarkets have your back and offer a wide variety of gluten-free items:
- Beit Teva: Your dedicated gluten-free paradise! A haven for celiac and gluten-conscious foodies, Beit Teva boasts everything from pasta perfection to cookie bliss, all clearly labeled and certified. You’ll find many other interesting natural gluten-free products in these stores as well.
- Shufersal: This grocery giant takes gluten-free seriously! Extensive shelves filled with delicious options await, from fluffy gf breads to vibrant tomato sauce and gluten free peanut butter, ready to elevate every meal. Check out the freezer aisle for frozen Pita and Laffa bread.
- Nitzat Haduvdevan: Don’t let the name fool you, this supermarket is overflowing with gluten-free goodness! Whether you’re whipping up a pasta night or whipping up a sweet treat, Nitzat Haduvdevan has got you covered.
- Rami Levi: Value and variety meet gluten-free! Expect budget-friendly finds alongside a surprising selection of delicious gluten-free staples and exciting discoveries.
Language barrier:
In Hebrew, several words relate to celiac disease and gluten intolerance. “צליאק” (tseliak) stands for “celiac” in Hebrew. The term for “gluten” is “גלוטן” (gluten), and “ללא גלוטן” (lelo gluten) translates to “without gluten”.
Since you are already in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem is practically calling your name from just down the road! It’s only a hop and a skip from Tel Aviv, and with your love for exploring new places, you wouldn’t want to miss its historical and cultural treasures.
