Frommer's Israel (Frommer's Complete Guides)

• Provides valuable insights into Israel's culture and the region's historic and religious sites
• Explore the ancient and holy sites of Jerusalem, the silent majesty of the desert, the beach resorts of Tel-Aviv, and much more
• Detailed practical tips on dining etiquette, bargaining, communicating and getting around

From the Book: Street Food in Tel Aviv
The food stands in Tel Aviv serve some of the best falafel.
Photo by josh.ev9/Flickr.com Street stalls in Tel Aviv are the best places to try authentic vegetarian delights. Falafel is widely considered to be the unofficial national dish of Israel. Sabich (a pita stuffed with fried eggplant, egg, and pickled cabbage) is originally an Iraqi dish but is fast becoming a local favorite. You'll find that in general, the street food is of good quality and is often kosher, too.

Where to Eat:
Along Ibn Gvirol Street, you can find dozens of food stands that serve falafel and shawarmas. Head to Frishman Street or the neighboring town of Ramat Gan for the best sabich. Although it's not technically a food stall, the street-side Abulafia Arab bakery in the port area of Jaffa doles out freshly baked savory pastries and pitas late at night.

How Much:
Six falafel balls in a pita (with as many dips and salad that can fit) costs about 15 Israeli new sheqel ($3.85). A chicken shawarma is about 30 Israeli new sheqel ($7.70).