Benny's restaurant — Restaurant in Tel-Aviv

A T T E N T I O N: If you’re looking for a real-deal, no-frills, old-school Tel Aviv dining experience, Benny’s Restaurant is exactly where you need to be.

Now, I’ll be honest—finding this place isn’t as simple as spotting a big flashy sign. At first glance, you might miss it, but here’s the trick: just walk into the front square-like patio area and ask literally anyone where Benny’s is. This is one of those beloved local spots where everyone in the area knows exactly where to send you.

Once inside, you’ll find a small, clean, no-nonsense kitchen that’s been serving up magic for years. Nothing fancy, nothing “new era”—just top-tier, home-style cooking. Delivery drivers are constantly in and out picking up orders, which is always a great sign: the food is moving, the flavors are fresh, and the kitchen is working non-stop.

The two gentlemen running the place immediately welcomed me and, despite the usual recommendation to order ahead, sat me down and insisted I try their mixed plate of couscous with meat and veggies. And let me tell you—it was a 10/10 masterpiece. The couscous was fluffy, the meat was tender, and the flavors were the kind that don’t just hit your taste buds but settle deep into your soul.

Classic Israeli hospitality was in full effect—I even got the classic “You might not even like this” joke before my plate arrived, all delivered with great smiles and an easygoing warmth. To top it all off, they brought me a complimentary Moroccan tea, perfect for sipping as I relaxed on the patio and soaked in the laid-back Tel Aviv vibes.

This is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden treasure. If you want real food, real people, and a real-deal experience, Benny’s is...

Super small home food cafe. Very tasty! The uniqueness is that the place is super authentic and it is impossible to do anything like that if you’re building a new cafe from scratch. Very nice neighborhood. It was cool to sit outside and eat in the shade. It was 2 of us and we were sharing a dish with cous cous, beetroot and kubbe with meat. Delicious home food. I would like to come here again! Next door is a place with delicious wine and cheese. You can combine those two together and have...

Benny's restaurant is an institute, though not many knows about the place. Located in a non-descript residential building, for over a decade, Benny is preparing traditional, home-made dishes, pouring his bday experience and big heart into them. The service is friendly and regulars are greeted with a smile and a joke as they are served their usual, favorite dishes. There is a nice variety to select from, served with rice, kuskus, and stand vegetables - a hearty lunch that will...