Israel Restaurant Tips by VeronicaG

The Spa Restaurant: Ein Geddi Restaurant

After visiting Masada's heights, those of us who had opted for that trip joined the others at the En Gedi Spa.

The Spa gives one the opportunity to float in the Dead Sea, rub mineral-rich mud all over one's body and dine at one of the spa's restaurants. Our group met at The Spa restaurant for our mid-day meal, served cafeteria style.

As I remember there were many different types of veggies and salad fixings, but entrees could be ordered as you progressed along with your tray. I believe I just had a salad plate that day. The dining room was light and airy with plenty of seating. A second restaurant, Pundak, was on the premises but we did not dine there nor investigate the room.

Below is info. direct from the spa's website:

"The Pundak restaurant at the Ein Gedi beach is open from 10:00 to 18:00 (winter - to 17:00).

The Spa restaurant is open 11:30 to 16:00. There are Kiosks (drinks, ice-cream, snacks, sandwiches) at the entrance to Nachal David (opens at the nature reserve opening hours) and at the beach, by the Pundak.

You can buy food at the Field School shop. It is opened 18:30-19:30 (Friday 12:00-13:00, Shabbat - closed).

There is a minimarket at the shopping mall in Ein Bokek (40 min. driving)".

For more information on the Spa or other Ein Gedi attractions: call 972-8-658-444 if outside the country or 08-6594658 in Israel.

Phone: see above

Rating: 4

Theme: Other

En Gev Harbour: Along The Way...

Although we dined at our hotels in the evening, we often found ourselves traveling during the day. Such was the case when we pulled into Ein Gev Harbour Restaurant, where there is a pretty beach and resort located at this kibbutz.

Several of our fellow travelers were looking forward to sampling some St. Peter's fish, the traditional choice when visiting Galilee. According to those who ordered it, this fish contains many small bones, too many to remove. I didn't order this for lunch, but opted for a pizza instead. I know, I know...when in Rome, but I'm not a big fish eater.

We chose to seat ourselves in the outdoor dining area, where we relaxed in the shade. The wait staff was friendly and prompt--we enjoyed our stop here! Inside, a small gift shop carried essentials, clothing and souvenirs.

Thankfully, I was able to pick up a moderately priced jersey, water shoes and pants to wear in the Jordan River since I forgot my bathing suit. I believe swimsuits were available, but I didn't want to take time to try on 42 or more suits to find one that looked presentable on me. 'Sigh'...

Address: Ein Gev,Israel

Comparison: about average

Directions: Kibbutz Ein Gev Holiday Resort Village MP, Ein Gev 14940, Israel

Phone: 800-555-5765

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 4

Theme: Seafood

Website: http://www.friendlyplanet.com

AROMA: Stop by for a Latte or Frappaccino

After our River Jordan visit, our group lobbied to stop for refreshment. AROMA welcomed us with frappuccinos, cappuccino's, espresso's, mocha coffee, Turkish coffee, oj, iced tea...you name it! We were thrilled to find this espresso bar.

Resembling Starbucks, we ordered at the counter, paid, then had our choice of tables. A generous selection of coffee drinks was available. I chose a chai latte with non-fat milk ($3.50), which was the only latte I noticed on the menu board. It was delicious!

Salads, sandwiches and pastries are also available. The service was prompt and courteous; the interior clean and neat. We would have made a return visit if only it were closer to our destination.

Address: Tiberius, Israel

Comparison: least expensive

Directions: outside the city

Phone: 04-8555555

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 5

Theme: Other

Website: http://www.aroma.co.il

A German Colony pizza shop in Israel: A Cheap Meal

When I wasn't eating falafels, I was eating pizza for lunch. Pizza was by far the cheapest means of filling our stomachs on the road.

This particular pizza shop was located near the German Colony. Our bus dropped us off, giving us a 1/2 hour to find a meal. Some of our group went to the fruit market for their lunches; others to the falafel stand.

I made a real faux pas when I ordered my usual pizza: mushroom and pepperoni. OOPS! I was nicely reminded by a fellow traveler that pork was not available. I KNEW THAT!! The slice of pizza was delivered to our table on a piece of cardboard rather than a plate.

You were to hold it upright by your mouth and gently slide it down bite by bite. It was quite fun, actually. The cost of a large slice of pizza and diet pop was $5.

Address: German Colony, Jerusalem, Israel

Comparison: least expensive

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 5

Theme: Pizza