Denmark-based jewellery brand ELHANATI was founded by Orit Elhanati in 2011, drawing on inspiration from Nordic minimalistic lines and the Middle East’s mysterious energy.
Born in Copenhagen to parents of Greek, Israeli and Danish descent, Elhanati’s pieces showcase Middle Eastern undertones through the use of recycled 18k solid yellow gold, each handmade in her Copenhagen atelier. Inspired by her grandmother and her friends who would sit on Tel Aviv porches dripping in gold, each piece tells a story from the streets of Jerusalem, sharing the textures of Israel’s mountains, cliffs and deserts.
Here, Elhanati shares her inside knowledge of Tel Aviv and where to find Israeli magic.
The best time to visit Tel Aviv?
All year round. It’s always fantastic, but if I had to choose I would say around May.
Our first pitstop should be…
Abu-Hasan. It is by far the best hummus I have ever tasted. They serve nothing but hummus and I’m really drawn to their simple way of presenting it. It’s raw, unspoiled and tastes so, so good.
Your favourite hotel to check-in at is…
The Jaffa Hotel which is beautifully built. It’s in an old French hospital and features minimal design from global artists. I am in love with the area and the architecture.
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For an early morning workout head to…
A run on the beach, no doubt.
Where should we go for breakfast?
To the terrace at the Norman hotel. The locals love it and go there for special occasions, it’s a perfect place to enjoy an amazing brunch with loved ones.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
BAR51 is located near the beach, which is where you want to be at noon in Tel Aviv. It serves a fresh menu of seafood-based dishes and great wine.
Your favourite restaurant in town?
Port Sa’id for a chilled vibe with incredible food, or Mashya for exquisite fine dining.
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And for dinner with friends?
If you want to choose an authentic dining experience known mostly to locals, go to Shtsupak. It’s not fancy, yet the fish and seafood is delicious. It’s also close to the beach and to the chic Ben Yehuda street.
The drink to order at the bar…
Lemonarak at the Hummussaria. But be sure to stop by The Lucifer, too. After pushing a large heavy door open you enter a dark, smoky room with a super cool bar and crowd. It’s very chilled out.
The best place for people watching…
Trumpeldor Beach. Just go, you will see.
The culture spot to rave about…
The Mosque in Jafo is unmissable.
The best place to treat yourself is…
Six Senses Shaharut by the Dead Sea.
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Where can I go shopping?
Neve Tzedik, Shalom Shabazi street here has lots of cute shops, with a mix of local and international brands. There’s also loads of nice little cafes to try, and stop for lunch at Suzannas.
For the best views head to…
The park in Jafo has beautiful views of the city.
One place only locals know about…
Mashawasha hummuseria. Also Sabich Tchernichovsky for sabich (pita bread with eggplant, hummus, eggs and tahini)
A book to read before we go…
Anything by Rupi Kaur or Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari.
For a change of pace try…
Stroll around Kiryat Hamelacha to explore the local artists and galleries.
Souvenir to take home?
Halva, it has always been a craving of mine.
In one word, Tel Aviv is…
Mesmerising.
A must-try spot for date night?
Stroll in Neve Tzedek, a neighbourhood full of cafés with courtyard gardens and pretty cocktails.
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For a change of pace try…
Park HaMesila is the new hot spot for sunbathing and picnics, and grab a pizza from Eyal Shani’s nearby pizzeria. It’s comfortably located near the TEDER and Romano compound which is also the perfect place for parties, dinners and weekend designer markets.
Great day trips include…
The Dead Sea, hike up the Masada mountain while here to see a beautiful sunrise.
How should we spend the final day of our trip?
Go to the beach and have a nice meal somewhere near Shuk HaCarmel (Carmel Market).
What’s your Tel Aviv secret?
Get lost. Never plan. Explore and you will end up in an unknown place, with magical people and delicious food and drinks. It’s hard to miss in Tel Aviv.
Essential items to pack?
The Tel Aviv Small Worlds Necklace, the Sinai Rock ring, a sun hat, Ortigia travel perfume and my Sicilian slippers.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?