culinary travel israel

Israel Culinary Tours and Experiences

Book Our Famous Food Tours to Experience a Real Taste of Israel The Official Netflix “In Search of Israeli Cuisine” Trip Provider

Israelis love food, probably because Israel is a melting pot of many different cultural tastes and cuisines from around the world. Nowhere else will you find Sephardic grape leaves and delicious Sabikh next to a cart of authentic German schnitzel made from a hundred year old recipe by a devoted safta.

Via Sabra goes beyond the regular Israeli food tours with our extraordinary chef- and foodie-led experiences, talks, and tastings from culinary experts. By the end of our trip, you’ll be a newly minted connoisseur, capable of answering “What is Israeli cuisine?” with relish.

• Curate 30 annual full-length culinary journeys through Israel, each packed with expertly crafted food experiences
• Offer tours from celebrity chefs like Mike Solomonov, Adeena Sussman, Lior Lev Serkarz, Alon Shaya, and others
• We are the official “In Search of Israeli Cuisine” trip provider, bringing people to follow in the steps of the Netflix broadcast movie by Roger Sherman “In Search of Israeli Cuisine”
• Lead day tours through urban centers and rural places to forage for herbs, pick grapes, or harvest olives, depending on the season
• Program inclusive tours based dietary needs, food interests, and other adventurous appetites
• Pair clients with restaurateurs on professional research trips to inform new menus and restaurant concepts

Our CEO, Avihai Tsabari is a former restaurateur who has served guests from all over the globe at his business in Jaffa. He met world-renowned chefs like Mike Solomonov, Adeena Sussman, and Lior Lev Serkaz, who now work in close partnership with Via Sabra to research and curate tours (check out the trips they lead with us).

Our hand-picked guides and food specialists share Avihai’s enthusiasm for great food and legendary Israeli hospitality, whether on a Carmel Market food tour or Jerusalem Shuk tour (or a full on multi-day journey). Join us for an Israel culinary tour in our next wine tasting in the Galilee or a Moroccan couscous workshop with Avihai’s mother.

or keep on reading…

In Search of Israeli Cuisine

We indeed had a wonderful time during our travels to Israel.

We were lucky to be with a group of “strangers” who became family in a few short days. The trip took us to amazing places that were not included in our previous visits to Israel and those few previously visited places were totally changed.

Since we were in search of Israeli Cuisine, I can only say I think we found it during our trip. So much wonderful food in so many wonderful places, prepared and served by so many wonderful people!! 

I want to acknowledge our wonderful guide Orit – she just knew the right thing to do and how to get the group moving the right way. Oh yes and thanks for the surprise Wine Truck!!! We just love Israeli wine!!!

We have already recommended Via Sabra to several people, and we hope they also take advantage of the Via Sabra hospitality.

Upcoming Culinary Tours

We offer bespoke tours tailored to your requirements, however you are also welcome to join one of our scheduled culinary tours.

Adeena & Mike's Excellent Israeli Culinary Adventure

Join Adeena and Mike on an eight-day feast for the senses as they take you to meet the people, see the places, taste the food, and experience the alluring spirit of Israel."

Chef Michael Rantissi Culinary Trip

Join Chef Michael Rantissi on a culinary journey to his native Israel. After training in New York and Paris Chef Rantissi worked at some of Tel Aviv’s finest restaurants.

Our signature culinary trip inspired by the film In Search of Israeli Cuisine. Eat your way through the country while exploring the question "What is Israeli Cusine?"

or read on to book a bespoke tour…

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Early bird special - $200 off per person.

Available only between october 1-10, 2021.

Registration for the trip will open on October 1. Fill out this form to be notified when registration for the trip opens, so you can take advantage of early bird special pricing!

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Culinary Tour of Israel

( 7 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis ) Jerusalem, Tel Aviv

This private culinary tour is the perfect way to learn about Israel's rich and diverse cultural heritage. It includes private visits to food markets, a private cooking class with a local chef, wine tasting, special meals, private cultural touring and more.

Upon arrival, enjoy VIP airport assistance before being transferred to Jerusalem . Built entirely from white stone, Jerusalem glows and changes from white to pink to rose to gold with the changing of the light. Your expert private guide will bring the beautiful city and its incredible, multi-layered history alive. Of immeasurable religious, historic and archaeological importance, the entire Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Temple Mount, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Via Dolorosa and the Western Wall, including the excavation tunnels under the Western Wall. Explore the narrow streets, twisting alleyways and airy plazas, ancient synagogues and churches, and bazaars and boutiques of the Old City's Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Armenian quarters. Enjoy hummus tastings through the backstreets of the Old City, and visit a small factory that makes tahini. See the Mount of Olives, Mount Zion and walk upon the old city ramparts. Visit Jerusalem's most important museums, such as the Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum and the Israel Museum to see the Dead Sea Scrolls. Perhaps also see the Chagall Windows at Hadassah Hospital.

One day, enjoy a tour of the Machane Yehuda Market with a local chef. Sample local culinary specialties such as burekas (flaky filled pastries), chocolate rugelach and halvah and shop for regional staples such as tahini, za'atar, dried fruits and nuts. Also gather ingredients for a private cooking class and lunch. Another day, enjoy a lunch (or Shabbat dinner) at a local home and learn about the cultural significance of challah.

If desired, we can arrange many special interest activities around Jerusalem, such as touring the ancient City of David, joining an archaeological dig, walking through the city's ancient underground water tunnels, specialized shopping or exclusive meetings with local religious experts, geo-political experts, chefs, artists, fashion designers, winery owners or even former Israeli operatives.

Next, stop at a local winery to sample Israeli wines, and visit the small farm of a renowned goat cheese maker. Alternatively, visit the Israeli-Arab village of Abu Gosh to sample some of Israel’s best hummus.

Conclude in Tel Aviv , a vibrant city on the Mediterranean Sea coast. During private touring, experience the best of Israel's largest city: the Neve Tzedek neighborhood, UNESCO-listed Bauhaus architecture, Old Jaffa and museums such as the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, the Design Museum Holon and Beit Hatfutsot: Museum of the Jewish People in Tel Aviv. Explore the city’s best food markets, such as the Carmel or Levinsky markets, and enjoy a privately-guided tasting tour with a local culinary expert. If desired, we can also arrange an excursion to the fascinating Ayalon Institute , a kibbutz that hid a secret underground ammunition factory. Additional options in Tel Aviv include specialized shopping, strolling the port district or fashionable HaTachana or visiting the Roman ruins of Caesarea . During free time, perhaps spend time on the beach, shop in the city's markets and leisure districts and enjoy the city's excellent restaurants.

This tour can easily be extended with other destinations in Israel or other countries.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

Testimonials

We absolutely LOVED India in every way! The cookery lesson and lunch in Udaipur was great…the lunch was delicious, the house was lovely and they were so warm and welcoming.  ~ R.L., Washington, D.C.

Japan was excellent—we all had a blast. Your attention to detail and your ability to be foodie-focused and find outstanding guides sets you apart. ~ R.S., St. Petersburg, FL

One of the highlights of the trip to Bali was the cooking class you arranged in Ubud. Our instructor was the owner of the restaurant and they were so accommodating to our tastes and created a menu just for us.  ~ T.J., Norfolk, VA

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• Luxury Tours

The Best Food Tours in Jerusalem and  Tel Aviv

Discover israel, mahane yehuda - jerusalem ❂ levinsky market - tel aviv.

100% Customer Satisfaction

My customers found the food tour to be a highlight of their trip and an unforgettable experience.

Multiple Destinations

Planning on visiting Tel Aviv or Jerusalem? Hit me up! Let's eat like locals.

Great Value

This isn't a tasting tour, it's a food tour. If you aren't full, then I didn't do my job. You'll be eating. A lot. 

100% Family Friendly!

I'm equally comfortable guiding an eighty-year-old history buff, an eight-year-old Avengers fan, and a thirty-eight-year-old professional chef.

Visit Mahane Yehuda and Levinsky Market

My Epic Israel Food tours offer first-hand accounts, stories from shopkeepers, tricks from bakers and produce from farmers. It’s a behind-the-scenes, all-senses-go, culinary extravaganza that leaps from the heart of Israel’s food markets straight onto visitors’ taste buds.

Mahane Yehuda Jerusalem

We'll explore Jerusalem's Mahane Yehuda's eateries, bakeries, food stalls, and spice shops. We talk about the story of Israel through its food and the impact immigrants have made on the market from its inception until today. It isn't a tasting tour, it's a food tour. And we eat. A lot. 100% Family friendly!

Levinsky Market  Tel Aviv

Spice up your trip to Tel Aviv with a tour of Levinsky market. Levinsky market was founded by immigrants in the 1920’s from Greece, Bulgaria and Turkey, and later joined by immigrants from Iran. Levinsky Market is a cultural melting pot where you can find unique spices, dried fruit, cheeses, nuts, pickles, olives, coffee and the best halvah you’ll ever eat. 

ABOUT  ME

Hi! I'm Harry Rubenstein. I am a pastry chef, culinary guide, storyteller, outdoor market obsessive, and a self-proclaimed expert on Jewish baked goods — sweet and savory. I have been shopping and eating at Israel’s markets for over 20 years and I am happy to share my experience and knowledge in my wonderful food tours!

My customers are amazed!

100% satisfaction on tripadvisor, “harry’s shuk tour was awesome his knowledge of the history of the shuk was incredible, as was the food he had us try i highly recommend touring with him” "loved that harry was able to engage both the adults and the kids. my little ones aren't the most adventurous eaters or triers of new foods. but harry presented it in an engaging, storytelling manner that had them all in. they tried everything until their stomachs were full."  .

“The whole family - ages 9-49 - loved our time with Harry. While some of us have been to the Shuk many times before - we all learned new things. History, art, food. The Food! Come hungry. The most remarkable part was that all the kids ate new things!” "We had a wonderful family tour with Harry of Jerusalem's Machane Yehuda shuk!! Harry was warm, interesting, informative and introduced us to a variety of interesting and delicious foods and vendors. He catered to all in our group....from age 13 to 83! We highly recommend him!"

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Let's explore the best food in israel together, book early .

Delicious Israel - Private Culinary Walking Tours

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Delicious Israel - Private Culinary Walking Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Discover the Flavors of Israel: 9-Day Culinary Tour

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• Trip Overview

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration.

Indulge in authentic culinary arts that span heritage and history on your 9-day Israel food tour that explores the depths of regional flavors from Jerusalem to Galilee and Tel Aviv. Between decadent food discoveries in ancient cities and local villages, the breadth of Israel’s history will be revealed during tours of fascinating heritage sites, breathtaking desert regions, charming coastal cities, and flourishing wildlife reserves for an encompassing taste of Israel.

Customizable Itinerary

Jerusalem - arrival in the capital.

Ancient history blends with modern amenities, a historic atmosphere mixes with glamorous ambiance, and cultural charms contend for the attention of travelers that pass through the capital of Israel, Jerusalem. You will arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, meet your transfer, and be whisked away to accommodation in the center of the city’s spirited activity. Today will provide an opportunity to acclimate to your new surroundings and admire the history, cultural diversity, and scenery from colorful neighborhoods around town. In the evening, you will try the local flavors at humming markets as the sunset brings your first day to an end.

What's Included:

Jerusalem - The Flavors of Israel

Sunrise will beckon in a new day, and you can eagerly anticipate your culinary discoveries. Your guide will show you to the Tayelet Haas Promenade overlooking the Old City of Jerusalem. You will wander the stoned pathways down cobbled steps past lush lawns leading to the ancient limestone Western Wall. Your expedition will continue to the Old City’s cultural quarters, where you will peruse the processional route of Via Dolorosa Street to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the colorful Arab Markets for a taste of authentic Israeli cuisine.

Jerusalem - Tours Through Time

This morning will bring with it the possibility of immersing yourself in Jerusalem’s trying history at the dramatic Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial museum. The museum’s evocative exhibits remember the Jewish people who fought the Nazis and offer insight into Israel’s traumatic history. You will follow up your tour through time at the Israel Museum and home of the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Shrine of the Book. In the afternoon, you will head to the Shuk Machane Yehuda market with a professional chef to browse fragrant spice stalls and fresh produce that will be used to create tonight’s tantalizing Israeli dinner.

Galilee - Across the Judean Desert

You will leave after breakfast, making a stop in the Judean Desert surrounding Jerusalem to enjoy a camel ride across the sand valleys. You will plod across the sweeping arid plains to a home inside a nearby village and try your hand at preparing traditional Arabian pita bread. Your journey across the desert will continue afterward, and you will admire the Judean Desert scenery as you cross the Jordan Valley into Galilee. En route, you will visit the ancient Beit Alfa Synagogue to view the astonishing preserved mosaics, the Roman city of Beit She'an, and the Sea of Galilee.

Galilee - Culture and Cuisine at the Golan Heights

The Sea of Galilee will backdrop your first morning here as you watch the sunrise from your balcony with a freshly brewed beverage in hand. You will join your guide after breakfast for a Jeep tour along the foothills of the Golan Heights. Druze villages, independent religious ethnic Arab communities, straddle the vast region, and you will be invited to indulge in authentic Druze cuisine with a local family as you pass through. Your guide will then take you to strategic positions on the Golan Heights, a nature reserve where wildlife thrives, and a winery for cheese and wine tasting.

Tel Aviv - Crusader Cities of Israel

Your travels this morning will take you from the Sea of Galilee to the Crusader city of Acre, where a network of underground tunnels and the elaborate Knight’s Hall will showcase a world lost to time. You will admire the impressive stone architecture, historic weaponry exhibits, and Crusader banners with notable sigils. You will then explore the flavors of old as you relish a culinary tour of Acre’s historical dishes before you continue to the breathtaking Hanging Gardens of Haifa. One last stop at Caesarea will highlight more Roman and Crusader history within Israel before you arrive at Tel Aviv.

Tel Aviv - The City’s Best Highlights

Tel Aviv is a glamorous Israeli city on the Mediterranean seaboard that will invite you to seduce your senses during exciting experiences in and around the port. Today, you will wander Rothschild Boulevard to the Independence Trail and delve into the birth of the State of Israel as written in the history books. The storied exhibits of the Palmach Museum and mouthwatering foods found at the stalls of the Jaffa Flea Market will feature on this exquisite day tour of the best of Tel Aviv.

Tel Aviv - Learn to Cook Israeli Cuisine

Your local food expert will meet you this morning after breakfast for a delicious taste bud tour of Tel Aviv’s quintessential treats, starting with the Carmel Food Market. You will explore the culinary history of Tel Aviv through spices, fresh produce, and unique cooking techniques. Watch closely while the chefs prepare intricate dishes as you will have an opportunity to cook authentic Israeli cuisine yourself, such as falafel, hummus, and Israeli salad. You will indulge in the food that you prepare as you toast your culinary expertise and then conclude your day with a tour of the graffiti of Florentin.

Tel Aviv - Breakfast and Goodbyes

You will spend your last morning in Israel reveling in the time you have remaining to explore Tel Aviv after breakfast. You may wander along the promenade and appreciate the views of the Mediterranean seashore and sparkling sands of Aviv Beach, explore architectural areas that showcase century-old designs, browse bustling markets for delicious delicacies, or relax in the comfort of your accommodation’s swimming pool. You will toast to an unforgettable culinary adventure in Israel as Tel Aviv comes to life. You will transfer to the airport having tasted the best regional treats and made stunning memories.

Trip Highlights

• Stroll along the Tayelet Haas Promenade to the Old City of Jerusalem and peruse the colorful cultural quarters to visit the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and Arabian culinary markets, where you will taste authentic Israeli cuisine
• Remember the dramatic events of the Holocaust and pay your respects to the Jewish people who died fighting the Nazis as you browse the evocative exhibits at the Yad Vashem memorial museum
• Join a professional chef on a culinary tour of the colorful vegetable vendors and fragrant spice stalls of the Shuk Machane Yehuda marketplace, where you will collect fresh ingredients for a private Israeli dinner
• Prepare traditional Arabian pita bread at a culinary home inside a local Judean Desert village after a relaxing camel ride across the golden sand seas surrounding the Jordan Valley
• Cross the Golan Heights to authentic Druze villages, independent Arab communities, where you will try the regional cuisine with friendly locals, and continue to a gorgeous winery overlooking the immense Golan area
• Cruise to the Crusader cities of Israel, including Acre and Caesarea, to see the Roman history at the elaborate Knight’s Hall and explore the fascinating flavors of the regional cuisine as prepared centuries ago
• Explore the city of Tel Aviv as you stroll across the glamorous Rothschild Boulevard, walk the historic Independence Trail, and tuck into local delicacies at the Jaffa Flea Market
• Indulge in the flavors of Tel Aviv on a culinary tour from the Carmel Food Market to a nearby cooking school where you will learn to prepare authentic Israeli dishes under the guidance of a professional chef

Starting Price

$4,675  per person (excluding international flights)

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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PRIVATE CULINARY TOURS IN ISRAEL

Enjoy a rich cultural exploration of the flavors, aromas, and gastronomical heritage of Israel

• Travel Guide
• Private culinary tours in Israel

Private Culinary Tours in Israel

One of our favorite ways to explore a new country is through the local cuisine, and Israel has a fascinating culinary story to tell! A private culinary tour is an incredible opportunity for meaningful cultural exchanges that take place around a table, in a local market, in the fields, and all over this beautiful land. From family farms and kitchens to boutique wineries and chef restaurants, the local culinary traditions run deep. We can’t wait to help you discover all the flavors of Israel.

Local Markets

Exploring the local open-air markets (shuk, in Hebrew; suq, in Arabic) is a must when touring Israel. Luckily, there is no shortage of markets in Israel, and we think there are few true cultural experiences more authentic than visiting a market, ogling the bounty of fresh produce, and sampling the favorite street foods of the locals. Market tours are fantastic opportunities to follow a local food expert through the maze of stalls and stands, discover the secret culinary treasures hidden within, and enjoy the quintessentially Israeli chaos of market shopping.

Locals have been producing wine in Israel for thousands of years, but there has been a renaissance in Israel’s wine scene in recent years. The result is a wave of boutique wineries that have sprouted up all over the country. Virtually anywhere you go in Israel, you can enjoy a winery visit full of breathtaking views, quality wines, and fascinating personal and business stories.

Israel’s wine scene is characterized by the same entrepreneurial spirit that makes this Start-Up Nation tick. A local winery visit is a great way to discover what makes Israeli winemaking unique, from the use of advanced agricultural technologies to rediscovering the lost secrets of winemaking from the biblical age.

Farm Visits

Get an up-close introduction to regional produce from a culinary and historical perspective. This is one of our favorite ways to discover local culinary traditions and truly connect with the Land of Israel through its wonderful agricultural offerings. Farm visits are also a wonderful opportunity to engage kids with fun, educational hands-on activities.

Local farms are a gateway to the ancient culinary traditions as well as the modern agricultural innovations of Israel. From sustainable livestock care to growing food in harsh climates, ancient olive oil presses, and more, there is so much to discover on a local farm visit.

Culinary Workshops

We love encouraging our guests to learn some local culinary traditions in a fun and interactive cooking workshop. Not only will you have a chance to explore the local flavors, you’ll also be able to discover the regional culture and pick up a few cooking secrets to bring home with you.

The possibilities are endless. Discover your ancient culinary heritage through cheese or pita making; learn the art of blending spices and creating za’atar; hone your hummus-making skills; make ice cream, pralines, or chocolate alongside local artisans; explore the market-to-table traditions of professional chefs, and more.

Local Hospitality

The table is an amazing place for cultural exchange, and no trip to Israel would be complete without an opportunity to dine with local hosts. You can experience desert life and the warm hospitality of a Bedouin community as you learn about the rich Bedouin culture, share a pot of traditional coffee or tea, and enjoy a lavish feast in a Bedouin tent in the middle of the desert.

You can also discover the world of Druze culture and cooking at a home hospitality where you’ll be invited to share a meal with your hosts as they introduce you to their community and traditions. If experiencing local culture and making meaningful connections to the people of Israel are on your list of travel goals, we’d love to make that happen while we host you here!

Private Culinary Tours with Dekel Tours

We at Dekel Tours love getting to know our clients as we custom design their private Israel tours . All we do is once-in-a-lifetime trips for couples, families, friends, communities, and other types of groups. If your travel dreams don’t fit into a cookie-cutter culinary tour of Israel, let Dekel Tours create the trip that perfectly reflects your interests and preferences. We’ll hand-pick the best sites and activities available to match those interests and create an unforgettable, bucket-list experience designed especially for you.

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Baltimore Jewish Living

7 Culinary Tours to Sample the Best in Israeli Cuisine

By Rachel Myerson

Kicking off a vacation with a food tour is the ultimate holiday hack. Walking helps familiarize yourself with a new location, tasting the local food is an accessible way to learn about a place’s history and culture, and you’re sure to walk away with culinary recommendations to see you through the end of your stay.

But culinary tours aren’t only for first-time visitors; they’re for return travelers and locals, too. That’s true especially in Israel, where there’s a huge variety of food tours exploring both on and off the beaten path. From Jerusalem’s Machane Yehuda market to Haifa’s Wadi Nisnas neighborhood, from Bnei Brak’s pre- Shabbat scene to foraging in the Jerusalem hills, these tours can take you all over the country.

While there’s no better way to explore Israel’s dynamic, diverse food scene, the sheer amount of options can be overwhelming. So we’ve made it easy for you: Here are the seven best food tours in Israel for every customer.

Note: For most tours, rates vary depending on the number of participants and if it’s a private or group tour.

Tel Aviv is the hub of Israel’s evolving culinary scene, with high-end restaurants pushing the limits of local cuisine; multiple markets selling seasonal produce and street food; and culinary institutions studying and advancing Israeli ingredients, technology and tradition.

Delicious Israel

Inbal Baum is the brainchild behind Delicious Israel, which paved the way for Tel Aviv’s increasingly active food tour field. Her growing team of guides lead a variety of tours around Tel Aviv and Israel. No matter how familiar you think you are with Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market (known locally as “the shuk ”), Levinsky Market or HaTikvah Market, there are discoveries and delights in store. That said, HaTikvah is definitely the furthest from the beaten path. Tours range from 2-4.5 hours, Sunday-Friday and rates vary . Book here .

Asif describes itself as “a culinary center in Tel Aviv dedicated to cultivating and nurturing Israel’s diverse and creative food culture.” Inside the impressive, light-filled space, their cafe, deli and extensive cookbook library are open to all — but on Fridays, they run guided tours around the rest of the premises, which includes a revolving exhibition space, test kitchen and rooftop farm.

Recommended for those seeking a deeper understanding of how culture, agriculture and technology influence the Israeli kitchen. Tours run 1.5 hours, with an English tour one Friday a month. NIS 40. Book here .

Explore an entirely different — and delicious — side of Israel in the haredi city of Bnei Brak, just a 15-minute drive from Tel Aviv.

Go-Tel Aviv Bnei Brak Food Tour

On Thursday nights, when residents begin to prepare for Shabbat, the streets are chock-full of people of all ages shopping for freshly baked challah and a variety of traditional Ashkenazi dishes that are typically hard to find in Israel, including vats of cholent and smoked and pickled fish. Guide Pini runs tours in both Hebrew and English that are 3-4 hours long and include four food stops. Book here .

The crazy, complex, completely intoxicating city of Jerusalem is home to a bounty of food traditions that span continents, religions, cultures and landscapes.

Fun Joel’s Shuk Tours

The only way to experience the Jerusalem food scene all at once is by visiting Machane Yehuda Market (again, known locally as “the shuk”). Joel Haber, who regularly shares his vast knowledge of Jewish and Israeli culinary history with The Nosher , is primarily an excellent culinary guide. “Fun Joel’s” shuk tours run about two hours, Sunday-Thursday, and include multiple tastings and immeasurable amounts of local knowledge. Book here .

Israel’s Foraging Adventures

Foraging is an ancient tradition in Israel, and continues today. Foraged za’atar and akkoub (gundelia) remain staple ingredients in Arab and Palestinian kitchens, purslane is sold in markets country-wide, and many other secret treasures remain hidden in plain sight — you just need someone to point them out. Enter Adara Peskin Shalem, who’s been foraging for edible and medicinal plants in the Jerusalem area for over a decade. Adara’s foraging tours run for 2-4 hours, available in Hebrew and English. Some include a dairy meal. Book here .

Northern Israel

Israel’s bustling cities are only part of its culinary story. Northern Israel’s lush landscapes brimming with fresh produce enjoy a slower pace and diverse population that contribute to its varied, unique culinary offerings.

Galileat run “grassroots cultural experiences based around food” in the Galilee, including full-day culinary tours, cooking workshops and home-cooked meals by locals. From visits to 3,000-year-old olive trees and boutique dairies to lessons in stuffing vegetables and the perfect baharat spice blend, there’s an itinerary to suit anyone and everyone. Tours range from two hours to full days. Find out more here .

Shuk and Cook Haifa

Don’t sleep on Haifa’s food scene — even Israelis make the mistake of underestimating the city’s evolving mix of Jewish and Arab culinary influences, varied produce and fresh seafood. Let Sharon and friends introduce you to the delights of Haifa’s underrated Talpiot food market, from Central European pastries to the freshest ceviche; or the smaller, sprawling Wadi Nisnas market brimming with lesser-known local produce, handmade Arab sweets and freshly roasted black coffee laced with cardamom. Tours run about 3 hours, available in Hebrew and English. Find out more here .

A Tel Aviv resident, Rachel Myerson is the associate editor for The Nosher. For more articles like this, visit MyJewishLearning.com/The-Nosher/

On Thursday, June 13, Jmore will celebrate the 200th episode of “The Food Enthusiast” hosted by Dara Bunjon.

This recipe from The Nosher is the perfect baking project for bagel enthusiasts -- and don’t forget to double the everything bagel mix.

Dara Bunjon talks with Mary Payne Moran, founder and chef at The Silver Lake Kitchen and author of the children's culinary mystery book "The Vita Gang Mysteries."

How did Ritz and animal crackers grow to prominence in America? The answer, in part, is thanks to the work of Sydney Stern.

Culinary Walking Food Tours in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem

Delicious Israel's curated walking tours of the markets and backstreets of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are not typical tourist tours. We are passionate about introducing you to our favorite local places to shop, eat, and experience Israeli cuisine. The walking tour range from 2 to 5 hours and are each filled with tastings, history, and fun!

Carmel Market (Tel Aviv)

Length of tour: 2-2.5 hours.

This tasting tour introduces guests to the heartbeat of Israel's modern city—in the stalls of Tel Aviv’s largest open air market, the Carmel Market ( Shuk HaCarmel in Hebrew). Diving into the depths of the Carmel Market and the backstreets of its neighboring historic Yemenite quarter, we learn about the development of Israeli cuisine through the country's history and how four generations of vendors are able to maintain their shops after almost 100 years. We will hear stories from vendors whose families were the first in the market to new shops revitalizing the hip neighborhood. Our 7+ tastings will include some of the country's freshest hummus, street food, produce, baked goods and Yemenite cuisine. 

Who is this tour best for?

Foodies who love outdoor markets

Families with kids

(Larger groups can be accommodated for this market tour) 

Levinsky Market (Tel Aviv)

Length of tour: 2-2.5 hours.

Welcome to Tel Aviv's foodie paradise! Join us for a grazing tour of the market to enjoy 7+ delicacies in an area best known for its Turkish, Greek and Persian immigrant heritage, dating back to the 1920s.

Today, gourmet chefs visit Levinsky's timeless shops for their fresh spices, dried fruits, hand-roasted coffees and deli goodies. We will visit grandfathers at their third- and fourth-generation shops as well as young and inspired trendy spots bringing a new vibe to this hipster-forward neighborhood. 

Explorers and adventure travelers who want to stray a bit off the beaten path

Foodies, chefs and visitors who want to bring home the best spices and sauces

(Larger groups can be accommodated for this market tour.)

Market Hop Tour (Tel Aviv)

Length of tour: 4 hours.

Not sure which of Tel Aviv's markets is right for your tasting tour? No need to compromise—you can do both! If you have the time and energy, take this tour to do a "hop" through both the Carmel and Levinsky markets. 

True food-lovers with the stamina to walk and eat lots of tastings

Visitors who want to experience the diversity of one open air market (the Carmel Market) and its surrounding neighborhoods as well as the historic immigrant-turned-hipster area of the Levinsky Market.

Eat Tel Aviv

Length of tour: 4.5 hours, jaffa port → carmel market.

Join us for a walk (long, but relatively flat) that weaves its way from the historic Jaffa Port to the diverse neighborhoods of Jaffa and Tel Aviv. Through the lens of food, we learn about the history and development of the Israeli culinary scene. Throughout the tour we will taste 10+ different delicacies, ranging from hummus at Israel's top hole-in-the-wall to street food to modern gastronomy. We will explore the neighborhoods of the Jaffa Flea Market, Neve Tzedek and cap off the tour in the Yemenite quarter and Carmel Market to taste what's in season. While a camera is highly suggested, the only thing we require of guests is that they come prepared with a big appetite (i.e., please eat a light breakfast ☺)! 

People who want to do a city tour through the lens of food. The tour is a taste of Jaffa and Tel Aviv's neighborhoods while learning the history of the city's growth

Visitors who enjoy lots of walking and sightseeing. The route is approximately 4-5 kilometers at a relaxed pace. There are two small hills, so mobility is necessary

Families with longer attention spans (shorter spans please look towards the shorter tours)

Eaters who are okay with carbs, sugar and gluten. If you are avoiding these, please inquire about one of our market tours, which may be more fitting

What to bring:

Comfy walking shoes

Bottle of water

Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and anything else you need to be comfortable on a hot Tel Aviv day (umbrella and rain coat in the winter)

Eat Jerusalem (Machane Yehuda Market)

Length of tour: 2.5 hours.

Our tour in Jerusalem introduces guests to the cornerstone of where ancient and modern meet – in the stalls of the country's largest outdoor market, Machane Yehuda. We will taste and peruse the aisles alongside local chefs and residents purchasing groceries, tasting lots of wonderful bakery goodies, farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, spices and sweets. Through our tastings we weave through the alleys learning about how drastically the market has shifted over the past decade.  

Visitors to Jerusalem that want to enjoy a "grazing" meal through the market

HaTikva Market (Tel Aviv)

Still largely untouched by tourism, and under-the-radar (even for many locals!), the Hatikva Market and its surroundings offer the perfect area for food exploration. Serving the historically working-class neighborhood of Hatikva, this open-air shopping market located in southeast Tel Aviv offers a diverse array of traditional Israeli foods and lesser-known ethnic specialties. Expect to visit traditional Yemenite and Turkish bakeries, taste Jewish-Iraqi comfort food, discover unique spices and blends, and experience how the neighborhood is shifting throughout our 7+ stops.

Foodies who love authentic markets and specialty foods

Experienced visitors to Israel who want to shop like a local

Travelers looking for a very off-the-beaten-path experience

Eaters who are comfortable eating carbs and gluten

Still have questions about our Delicious Experiences? 

Check out our faq to see if these answer your queries. , alternative walking tours.

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A Culinary Tour of Israel: From Traditional Eateries to Contemporary Cafes

• Embarking on Faith: Selecting the Best Christian Tours of Israel
• Exploring Israel’s Rich History: Top Historical Sites and Museums

Israel, often described as a melting pot of cultures, is not just a tapestry of historical sites and breathtaking landscapes; it’s a gastronomic paradise waiting to be explored.

With its rich history, Israel marries ancient culinary traditions with innovative modern flair.

From the spiritual aura of Jerusalem to the buzzing beaches of Tel Aviv, the country offers a myriad of dining experiences that cater to every palate.

In this guide, we’ll traverse the length and breadth of Israel, uncovering its best food places, restaurants, coffee spots, and hotel buffets.

Jerusalem beckons with places like Machneyuda, which offers modern Israeli dishes in a vibrant setting. For a taste of history, pop into Kadosh Café, a haven for pastry lovers since 1967. If a lavish spread is what you’re after, The King David Hotel guarantees a breakfast experience like no other.

Machneyuda is one of Jerusalem’s most celebrated dining spots and has garnered significant international acclaim. Here’s a deeper dive into what makes this place so unique:

Fusion of Flavors: The menu is a testament to Jerusalem’s melting pot of cultures. While deeply rooted in Israeli and Middle Eastern traditions, dishes exhibit Mediterranean, North African, and European influences.

Ever-evolving: The menu changes frequently due to the seasonal produce available in the market. This ensures diners get the freshest ingredients and experience something new with each visit.

Signature Dishes: Some popular dishes include beef tartare, polenta with asparagus, mushroom ragout & truffle oil, and the Jerusalem mixed grill.

Kadosh Café is an institution in Jerusalem that blends the city’s historic charm with delectable offerings that have stood the test of time. Let’s delve deeper into its rich legacy and offerings.

Culinary Heritage: The Kadosh family has been in Jerusalem for generations, and their café reflects the deep-rooted culinary traditions of the city. The current owners are the third generation, so the café has artfully balanced age-old recipes with modern tastes.

Culinary Offerings:

Artisan Pastries: Kadosh is particularly famed for its pastries. Their pastry chefs, trained in France, craft exquisite treats ranging from croissants and éclairs to tarts and cakes. Their cheesecake is often touted as one of the best in the city.

Diverse Menu: Beyond pastries, Kadosh offers a diverse menu that caters to breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Diners can expect a range of dishes, from classic Israeli breakfasts to salads, quiches, and more substantial mains.

Beverages: The café serves various hot and cold beverages, with trendy coffees. Kadosh ensures quality in every sip, whether a frothy cappuccino or a refreshing iced latte.

The King David Hotel in Jerusalem is one of Israel’s most iconic hotels and a landmark steeped in history and elegance. Let’s delve into the fascinating details of this legendary establishment.

Amenities & Offerings: 

Dining: The hotel’s dining options are renowned, especially the extravagant breakfast buffet featuring an array of international and Israeli specialties. La Régence, the hotel’s grill room, offers gourmet meals in an elegant setting. The King’s Garden Restaurant is ideal for a more relaxed dining experience.

In Tel Aviv, the culinary scene is pulsating with life. Port Said tantalizes with its Egyptian-inspired offerings, while the Shuk HaNamal is a gourmet’s dream with its range of fresh produce and eateries. Café Xoho and Ouzeria are other must-visits, catering to vegetarians and Mediterranean food lovers.

Port Said is one of Tel Aviv’s trendiest spots, blending music, culture, and gastronomy in an experience that captures the essence of modern Israeli nightlife. Let’s explore what makes Port Said such a distinctive establishment:

Middle Eastern with a Twist: The menu offers a contemporary take on traditional Middle Eastern dishes. Some standout items include roasted cauliflower, tahini, fresh local bread, and perfectly grilled meat dishes.

Cocktail Menu: The drinks menu at Port Said is as inventive as its food. They offer a range of cocktails that incorporate local flavours and ingredients. Their arak-based cocktails, in particular, are a hit among patrons.

Shuk HaNamal, which translates to “Port Market,” is a central culinary and cultural destination in Tel Aviv. Here’s a closer look at this unique establishment:

A Fusion of Tastes and Experiences: Located in the Tel Aviv Port, Shuk HaNamal seamlessly merges fresh produce stalls with specialty shops, restaurants, and cafes, presenting visitors with a holistic sensory experience.

Offerings: 

Culinary Spots: Shuk HaNamal is a gastronomic delight, boasting an array of eateries serving diverse cuisines, from traditional Israeli dishes to international fare. The dining options range from sit-down restaurants to takeaway counters.

Café Xoho is a beloved spot in Tel Aviv, offering a distinctive blend of international flavours, a relaxed ambiance, and a commitment to quality. Here’s a deeper dive into this popular café:

International Influences: Café Xoho’s menu offers a fusion of tastes, from classic Israeli breakfasts to dishes influenced by American, Asian, and other international cuisines.

Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly: One of the café’s hallmarks is its extensive vegetarian and vegan options. The vegan cookies and other baked goods, in particular, have garnered a loyal following.

Quality Ingredients: The café emphasizes using fresh, organic, and high-quality ingredients. Everything, from the bread to the cookies, is made in-house to ensure authenticity and taste.

Ouzeria in Tel Aviv is a standout establishment that perfectly encapsulates the city’s contemporary culinary scene, offering an avant-garde take on Mediterranean dishes. Here’s an in-depth look at this renowned dining spot:

Innovative Menu: The menu at Ouzeria blends traditional Mediterranean recipes and modern cooking techniques. Signature dishes might include fresh seafood, artisanal pasta, and vegetarian and vegan options.

Beverage Selection: Ouzeria offers an impressive selection of wines, cocktails, and ouzo. The beverage list is curated to complement the culinary offerings, ensuring a harmonious dining experience.

Alfresco Dining: The restaurant boasts an outdoor seating area perfect for the warm Tel Aviv evenings. This setup offers a lively dining atmosphere where patrons can enjoy their meals amidst the city’s vibrant backdrop.

Douzan and Fattoush promise an unforgettable dining experience for those journeying to Haifa, with panoramic views of the Bahá’í Gardens and a blend of Arab-Mediterranean dishes.

Douzan is a well-known restaurant and café in Haifa, Israel. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Haifa’s coastline and the Bahá’í Gardens, it provides a fusion of flavours and a lively ambiance. Here’s more detailed information about Douzan:

Culinary Fusion: Douzan blends Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, infusing traditional dishes with contemporary flavours and techniques. Their menu reflects the rich tapestry of cultures present in Haifa.

Diverse Menu: Douzan’s menu features a wide variety of dishes, including fresh salads, grilled meats, seafood, and traditional Arabic mezze. Their culinary style reflects a harmonious blend of Arabic, Mediterranean, and international flavours.

Beverage Selection: Beyond the food, Douzan boasts an extensive drink menu, including local wines, signature cocktails, and traditional Middle Eastern beverages.

Fattoush is a prominent restaurant in Haifa, Israel, known for its authentic Arabic and Middle Eastern cuisine. Named after a Levantine bread salad, Fattoush offers diners a genuine taste of regional flavours. Let’s delve into the details of this renowned establishment:

Authentic Arabic Cuisine: At its core, Fattoush celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East. The restaurant takes pride in using traditional recipes passed down through generations while occasionally infusing them with a modern twist.

Cultural Fusion: Situated in the diverse city of Haifa, Fattoush embodies the spirit of coexistence, serving dishes that resonate with both Arabs and Jews, as well as tourists from around the world.

Diverse Menu: The menu at Fattoush includes a vast range of dishes, from mezze starters like hummus and tabbouleh to hearty mains such as grilled lamb and seafood. Of course, the eponymous “fattoush” salad — a mix of toasted bread, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing — is a must-try.

Signature Dishes: The restaurant is renowned for its kebabs, mansaf (a traditional Jordanian dish made with lamb), and various flavorful rice dishes.

Beverages: Fattoush offers a range of traditional Middle Eastern drinks, such as mint lemonades and arak, alongside a selection of wines and modern beverages.

With its old-world charm, Jaffa is home to Old Man and the Sea, where an array of mezze and grilled fish await. Meanwhile, Alfie’s Bar is perfect for an intimate evening.

Old Man and the Sea (Zaken ve’Hayam in Hebrew) is a renowned restaurant in Jaffa’s ancient port area, just south of Tel Aviv, Israel. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, combining Middle Eastern flavours with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Let’s explore the facets of this iconic establishment:

Extensive Mezze: The experience begins with around 20 small dishes, including salads, hummus, baba ganoush, pickles, and freshly baked bread.

Fresh Seafood: Given its seaside location, the restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, offering a variety of fish, calamari, shrimps, and other oceanic delights, often grilled to perfection.

Traditional Dishes: Besides seafood, the menu includes traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, such as kebabs, grilled meats, and rice dishes.

Refreshing Beverages: Guests are often served a glass of lemon-mint drink (a traditional Middle Eastern refresher) upon arrival. Additionally, the restaurant offers a selection of local wines, beers, and arak, a conventional anise-flavoured spirit.

In the south, Eilat offers gems like M25, a steakhouse in the heart of the city’s meat market. Herods Hotel Eilat stands unmatched for a buffet spread, especially for seafood enthusiasts.

M25 is a popular restaurant in the heart of the Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) in Tel Aviv, Israel. Named after its address, Stall 25 on Meat Street, the restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Middle Eastern and Israeli dishes. Here’s a detailed look into M25:

Market Fresh: Given its location within Carmel Market, one of Tel Aviv’s most bustling and historic markets, M25 emphasizes using fresh, local ingredients. The proximity to various market vendors allows the restaurant to incorporate the freshest produce, meats, and spices into their dishes.

Modern Israeli Cuisine: While deeply rooted in traditional Middle Eastern flavours, M25 presents dishes with a contemporary twist, reflecting the evolving culinary landscape of modern Israel.

Meat-Centric Menu: M25 is mainly known for its meat dishes. From perfectly grilled steaks to succulent lamb, the restaurant offers a variety of meat options, all sourced from nearby butchers.

Diverse Flavors: While meats are central, the menu at M25 is diverse, featuring salads, sandwiches, and an array of traditional and innovative side dishes that cater to a broad palate.

Beverage Selection: Complementing its food menu, M25 offers a range of beverages, including local Israeli wines, beers, and cocktails.

Herods Hotel Eilat is a prominent luxury hotel in the resort city of Eilat, Israel. Overlooking the Red Sea, Herods Eilat is part of the Fattal Hotel Chain and offers guests a unique blend of comfort, style, and historical ambiance. Let’s dive into the details of this distinguished establishment:

Accommodations:

Dining: The hotel features several dining options, including gourmet restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from traditional Israeli to international fare.

Heading north to Galilee & Golan Heights, places like Dekel in Rosh Pina and Pelter Winery offer culinary delights paired with scenic beauty.

Pelter Winery is a notable Israeli winery that has garnered national and international attention for its premium wines. Established in 2001, the winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with innovative practices. Here’s a deeper dive into the Pelter Winery:

Wines & Offerings:

Varietals: Pelter Winery produces a range of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay, among others. They are known for their red and white wines, each offering unique flavour profiles influenced by the local terroir.

Winery Visits:

Tours & Tastings: Pelter Winery offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and the history of the winery and partake in wine tastings. The scenic location of the winery, combined with the sensory experience of wine tasting, makes it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts and tourists.

Those seeking rejuvenation at the Dead Sea can indulge in the sumptuous buffet at Herods Dead Sea Hotel. In Nazareth, El Babour Mill and Tishreen promise a sensory journey through Middle Eastern flavours.

Herods Dead Sea Hotel is a luxury hotel located on the shores of the Dead Sea, one of the world’s most unique and salinated bodies of water. The hotel, part of the Fattal Hotel Chain, is designed to offer guests a lavish stay while they experience the health benefits and natural wonders of the Dead Sea region. Here’s a detailed look at Herods Dead Sea Hotel:

Facilities: 

Dining: Herods Dead Sea Hotel features gourmet restaurants that blend local and international cuisines. Given its focus on wellness, many menu items are crafted to be delicious and health-conscious.

Tishreen is a well-known restaurant located in Nazareth, Israel. The restaurant is often hailed for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine and the fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours. Let’s delve into the aspects of Tishreen:

Authentic Arabic Cuisine: Tishreen takes pride in its roots, offering a menu deeply influenced by traditional Arabic and Middle Eastern recipes.

Modern Fusion: While the basis of their dishes is traditional, Tishreen isn’t shy about integrating contemporary touches, resulting in a delightful blend of old and new.

Diverse Menu: From classic mezze starters like hummus and kubbeh to heartier main dishes made from lamb, chicken, or beef, Tishreen offers a broad spectrum of flavours. The restaurant emphasizes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Signature Dishes: Some must-try dishes include grilled meats, traditional “mansaf” (a dish made with rice, lamb, and a tangy yogurt sauce), and unique salads that blend various Middle Eastern flavours.

Beverage Selection: Apart from the food, Tishreen offers a range of traditional Middle Eastern beverages, local wines, and other drinks.

Finally, in the vast expanses of the Negev Desert, The Khan in the Makhtesh Ramon crater offers a unique dining experience inspired by its surroundings.

Taste for yourself

Embarking on a culinary journey through Israel is akin to turning the pages of a rich, flavorful history book. Each dish tells a story, and each restaurant is a testament to the nation’s vibrant culture and heritage. As you leave Israel, you carry memories of its historic sites and the lingering taste of its diverse and delectable cuisine.

In spiritual travel, Coral Tours stands out as a beacon of excellence, offering some of the best Christian tours in Israel.

With a profound understanding of the sacred journey, we specialize in trips to Israel for Christians.

We meticulously crafted Christian trips to Israel. They are more than just tours; they are transformative experiences that resonate with faith and devotion.

For anyone seeking a spiritual vacation in the Holy Land, Coral Tours remains the gold standard for Israel Christian tours , ensuring every journey is memorable and deeply enriching.

Click here to find out more!

About Coral Admin

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Culinary Tour of Israel

• February 7, 2024

Gil Travel Partners with Award-Winner Author Joan Nathan to bring Travelers the best of Culinary Israel

There are dozens of unique features setting israel apart as a legendary travel destination; the religious and historical significance of this incredible country keep it up to par as one of the most sought-after tour spots of the world.

Anyone who has spent time in Israel knows how impressive the culinary offerings are here, from delicious dairy all-you-can-eat breakfast buffets starting off your days of touring to the freshest farm-to-table meals fueling your incredible site seeing around the country. As a kosher-eating country full of its own culinary traditions, it is surprising to know that food in Israel has long been neglected as a tourism selling point- which is why we are honored to partner with author and food journalist Joan Nathan to bring you a Gil Travel exclusive tour on wonderful Israeli culinary culture.

In addition to her career as an author of various cookbooks and important literary articles on Jewish cuisine, Ms. Nathan has fallen in love with Israel and offers us her expertise in Israeli food culture. Together, we are curating a once in a lifetime Cultural and Culinary tour that combines the best of our Jewish Heritage Tours of Israel with Ms. Nathan’s special culinary knowledge and connections. Explore this beautiful Mediterranean gem with unique visits to historical sites like the Western Wall, Yad Vashem, Old Jaffa, and Massada. Additionally, indulge all of your senses with specially-arranged food tours and dining experiences unique to Ms. Nathan’s knowledge and background as a leading Jewish foodie. We have honed in on Ms. Nathan’s various literary works, television appearances, and awards to use her as a resource for this incredible experience and hope to deliver a satiating trip throughout the beautiful Holy Land- with plenty of delicacies in tow!

Culinary Features of the Cultural and Culinary Tour of Israel with Joan Nathan :

Food Tasting Tour at Machane Yehuda

Machene Yehuda is one of the busiest markets in Israel and has endless sources of sensory stimulation! No matter what time of year or time of day, this incredible shuk offers visitors an excellent experience combining the best of Israeli shopping, cultural settings, and most of all- food! Enjoy this exclusive market tour to identify the wonderful gems amongst the stimulation of this larger than life food venue. Whether you crave delicious baked goods, healthy and healing produce, Israeli cheeses and halva, or authentic Middle Eastern spices there is no better place to look than Machane Yehuda. We bring you right to the action!

Visit to dairy farm in Kiryat Shmona

Located in the heart of Israel’s most gorgeous geographical region, Kiryat Shmona Israel’s northernmost city and a favorite food stop for the surrounding area. Visitors from Tel Dan Nature Reserve, Hulu Valley Nature Reserve, and many other adventure sites indulge in the fulfilling food offered at Kiryat Shmona’s various dairy farms and cafes. There is no better place to enjoy the local dairy culture of Israel as it has developed out of a kosher eating culture. The lush north provides farms an incredible background on which to cultivate their rich dairy offerings- and with our inside scoop we will deliver these succulent gems right to your mouth!

Dinner at Mizpe Hayamim’s Muscat Restaurant

Chef Chaim Tibi is legendary for the incredible menu and cuisine he has put together at Muscat. Located at the famous Mizpe Hayamim, Muscat is an amazing place to dine for hotel visitors and locals alike. This gem is coveted as a prime example of Israel’s farm-to-table culinary mission by Israeli’s themselves, and there is no better place to experience the finest this country has to offer than at the tables of Muscat. Primarily focused on French Cuisine and fresh produce and dairy collected from the grounds of Mizpe Hayamim itself, Muscat overlooks the gorgeous Sea of Galilee to supply plenty of visual stimulation to supplement your incredible meal.

Workshop and dinner with Eres Komorovsky

Chef Komorovsky is one of Israel’s star chefs and we are honored to have access to his incredible workshops through Ms. Nathan herself! Komorovsky and Nathan have been friends for years and share an amazing love for all things culinary- which is apparent when the two come together in the kitchen! Experience the majesty of the Chef first hand at this exclusive cooking workshop where you will be encouraged to taste, kneed, stir, sip and slice right alongside this Israeli legend. The best part of the evening will be getting to finally taste the work of culinary art you created together- although you certainly won’t want the night to end!

Authentic lunch at a local Druze village

One of the best ways to get to know someone is to break bread with them for an intimate sharing of history and culture. On our culinary trip, get to do just that with the unique Israeli Druze community living amongst the melting pot of people in this beautiful country. Known for their delicious food that honors the culinary history of the area, the Druze are extremely welcoming and fond of the people who visit them for an inside experience into their world from around the world! Explore the food of our past and the bonds we share with the local Druze tribes with this unique opportunity to dine, indulge, and share.

Doesn’t this sound like a deliciously wonderful opportunity? If you would like to participate on this exclusive culinary tour of Israel, sign up here or contact Gil Travel for more information!

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Jerusalem Food Tour: Market Visit and Israeli Cuisine

• Mahane Yehuda Market
• Jerusalem Old City

• Jerusalem food tour, led by a local expert
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Jerusalem Market Tour

Private food tour in jerusalem.

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Puzzle Israel is a unique and inventive travel company which focuses on personalized off-the-beaten-path tours in Israel.

We invite you to “Travel-Eat-Connect” with us, and based on this philosophy, we design tours that combine the cultural, historic, culinary and social highlights of Israel.

In addition to the client’s “must-see” sites, each tour takes travelers to the less explored, wilder and more authentic parts of Israel and clients are often given a ‘hands-on’ experience and, if desired, a culinary twist.

Our tours provide travelers with a local Israel experience by introducing them to contemporary Israel through our enthusiastic local eyes – The REAL Israel.

We have a huge list of experiences anyone can choose from when piecing together his/her Israel puzzle – and we accommodate various activity levels, all equally infused with fun and excitement.

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A Mouthwatering Culinary Travel Destination

Tel aviv culinary.

Tel Aviv is a foodie travel destination which offers sun, fun, beaches, history, a unique culture as well as delicious and exciting food. Tel Aviv recently made it on to gourmet magazine Sauver’s list of  Outstanding Culinary Destinations  in their annual Culinary Travel Awards. Tel Aviv was also named “outstanding” in the Best Markets and Shops category. Tel Aviv’s Pastel Brasserie was voted 2014’s  Most Beautiful Restaurant in the World  in the International Space Design Awards.

Israel is a land of immigrants, each ethnic community brought with it a unique culinary culture and together they have evolved into the Tel Aviv foodie experience. While in Tel Aviv you can try cuisine from Ethiopian, Romanian, Georgian, Russian, Indian, Yemenite, Iraqi, Iranian and more which have been given an Israeli Mediterranean twist. The city has elegant chef restaurants like Chef Mir Adoni’s Mizlala, Chef Avi Conforti’s Topolpompo restaurant and celebrity Chef Eyal Shani’s North Abraxas. There are intimate neighborhood restaurants like Abdu Hadayag. And don’t forget the famous Tel Aviv street food which is the healthiest fast-food in the world and always served with fresh Arabic salad.

Tel Aviv Bar Scene

It is not just the food that is superior in Tel Aviv the bar scene is also exemplary. Drinks International Magazine included Tel Aviv in their list of  World’s 50 Best Bars Awards . Tel Aviv’s Imperial Craft Cocktail Bar was voted the Best Bar in Africa and the Middle East. The Imperial stands out for its amazing made-to-order cocktails and Tel Aviv in general has caught on to the “mixology” trend. Tel Aviv has a buzzing bar scene with about 4,500 food and drink related establishments which means a ratio of one restaurant for every 1,000 people. Time Out Israel recently named Lilienblum Street, the Port, the promenade, Ben Yehuda Street and Dizengoff Street as the best bar areas in the city. Among the top hot spots in Tel Aviv is Trip Advisor’s #1 pick Lima Lima Bar, veteran bar Abraxas, intimate Ozen Bar and beach bar La La Land.

Cooking Vacations & Culinary Tours Worldwide

Embark on culinary vacations with The International Kitchen®, bringing global flavors to life with expert local chefs.

Countries We Visit

From regional specialities to traditional Italian, Italy offers everything you could want in a cooking vacation. Explore Italy

France epitomizes the idea of a culinary destination, from Provence, to Paris, to Normandy. Explore France

The essence of the Mediterranean diet in the seat of Western Civilization. Explore Greece

No one savors life like the Portuguese, from the sea to the mountains, to the vineyard-flanked rivers. Explore Portugal

Spain offers both authentic rustic cuisine and the cutting edge of European gastronomy under its sunny skies. Explore Spain

United Kingdom

Ancient churches and castles, bustling cities, pubs and tea houses, and local and international cuisines. Explore United Kingdom

Vietnam & Cambodia

Experience the wonders of Vietnamese cuisine and the temples of Angkor on a Southeast Asian culinary tour…   Explore Vietnam & Cambodia

From the Strait of Gibraltar to the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers culinary and cultural riches to explore. Explore Morocco

Enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine while exploring such sights as Machu Picchu and the magical cloud forest. Explore Peru

An immense variety of flavors in a small country, where ancient culinary traditions are preserved. Explore Croatia

The fascinating land of Malbecs, empanadas, Gaucho cowboys, and asado barbecues! Explore Argentina

Known as the ‘land of smiles,’ Thailand is also one of the world’s top destinations for a cooking vacation. Explore Thailand

A culinary paradise full of regional dishes, fresh produce, and authentic flavors. Explore Mexico

A meeting of Europe and Asia, Turkey provides cultural and culinary wonders at every turn. Explore Turkey

The proverbial “melting pot” in every sense – including in its gastronomy and food scene. Explore USA

India offers delectable curries, savory chaat, and tandoor-baked dishes, as well as a vibrant and diverse culture. Explore India

What Is a Cooking Vacation?

Benefits of culinary vacations.

• Cultural Immersion: Culinary vacations offer a deep dive into the local culture, allowing travelers to experience a place through its gastronomy, which is often at the heart of its traditions.
• Hands-on Cooking Classes: Instead of just tasting dishes, participants learn new cooking techniques, recipes, and secrets behind them, gaining practical culinary skills they can take home.
• Discover Authentic Flavors: By learning from local chefs, travelers get to taste and understand the true flavors of a region, often going beyond what's typically available in restaurants or tourist areas.
• Market Visits: Exploring local markets is an adventure in itself, introducing travelers to exotic ingredients, local vendors, and traditional food practices.
• Connect with Locals: Cooking classes and market tours offer an opportunity to interact with local chefs, artisans, and vendors, forging genuine connections.
• Memorable Experience: Unlike typical sightseeing tours, culinary trips offer a cultural experience that travelers remember and cherish for a long time.

Why Choose Cooking Tours from The International Kitchen®?

What to expect from cooking vacations with the international kitchen®.

• Accommodations;
• Hands-on cooking classes in English;
• Excursions that explore the local culture and cuisine;
• Extraordinary food and wine.

 Start Planning Your Culinary Vacation Today

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Visiting a local bakery with the chef during a cooking class in Rome.

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Zach Brooks: L.A.’s culinary curator

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“Are you ready? It’s my first-ever double hack.”

Zach Brooks is offering up a paper plate of barbecued lamb hearts with pomegranate sauce and a fluffy, steaming pita he got from the pitmaster at III Mas Barbecue to the dubious cook at Macheen, a pop-up taqueria. It’s 10:30 a.m. at Smorgasburg , the weekly outdoor food market at the Row DTLA, and Brooks, who has been working for more than four hours already, is hungry.

“I’m thinking you take this lamb and put it into your breakfast burrito,” he says with a child’s glee. “Then you take this pita, and you make a Macheen-style sandwich with it. What do you think would be good as the filling?”

Discover the change-makers who are shaping every cultural corner of Los Angeles. This week we bring you The Connectors, who understand that power doesn’t travel in a straight line and know how to connect the dots . Come back each Sunday for another installment.

A few minutes later, Brooks, 48, has his answer, as the Macheen team delivers him the lamb heart breakfast burrito and a fried-chicken-filled pita sandwich. “A full switcheroo!” Brooks exclaims excitedly.

Brooks sidesteps the throngs of people lining up for Cambodian street food from a nearby booth and takes the plate into the mid-morning sunlight. He stacks the burrito and sandwich halves to expose their molten innards, and snaps a quick photo. Then he digs in, bits of tater tot and fried chicken fluttering to the ground below.

Although he describes himself as just a “fat guy who likes to eat,” Brooks is the gatekeeper to a coveted corner of L.A.’s culinary world. As Smorgasburg’s general manager, he decides which of the many fledgling food entrepreneurs clamoring for spots at the Sunday market get to join his hand-picked lineup. An invite from Brooks can provide an invaluable leg up. Time and again, up-and-comers who found their footing at Smorgasburg have gone on to greater things, either opening their own restaurants or finding success in the crowded world of food trucks and pop-ups.

Had it not been for Brooks, Los Angeles may not have discovered the inventive sandwiches at Banh Oui, the Asian-accented ice creams at Wanderlust Creamery or the supremely delicious grilled meats at Tacos 1986, to name a few of the Smorgasburg alums that have graduated to brick-and-mortar locations. And these days, it serves as headquarters for immensely popular vendors such as Lobsterdamus and Chimmelier that have legions of dedicated fans via social media. It also provides real-world experience for newer concepts such as III Mas, which blends Texas-style grilling with Middle Eastern flavors, and Moom Ma’am ice cream, purveyors of wildly creative Thai-inspired gelato flavors. (III Mas recently left Smorgasburg to focus on a forthcoming deli and bakery.)

Time and again, up-and-comers who found their footing at Smorgasburg have gone on to greater things.

“The guy has a dream job — when we applied, he showed up and said, ‘Alright, lemme eat some lobster,’” laughed Lobsterdamus’ Johnny Angeles. “He really believed in us, and gave us a platform to leapfrog into the success we have today. Without [Brooks], I’d be living a totally different life.”

When Smorgasburg’s founders, Eric Demby and Jonathan Butler, were looking to expand west from their first location in Brooklyn, N.Y., they approached Brooks — who founded the influential New York food blog Midtown Lunch before moving to L.A. in 2009 — about running the new show. Brooks was less than enthused.

“I thought it was a terrible idea!” Brooks said. “L.A. is not New York. And downtown is not Brooklyn. And if you expect 20,000 people to wander in off the street, you don’t understand how L.A. works.”

Demby and Butler persisted, persuading Brooks to check out Smorgasburg’s future home — the Alameda Produce Market in L.A.’s Arts District, a part of a larger property that developers planned to transform into the Row, a collection of high-end shops and apartments. After the visit and more meetings, Brooks came around to the idea.

He began working his contacts and approaching chefs he admired. Depth and diversity were key: “My dream was to have a lineup that Jonathan Gold would love,” he said, referring to the late L.A. Times food critic. “But I also wanted stuff that tourists would love, people on Instagram would love, and second-generation Chinese kids from the [San Gabriel Valley] who know what good food is would love.”

He took pains to stand apart. “The last thing we wanted was for people to walk into Smorgasburg and be like, ‘Oh, there are the vendors from our farmers market, there are all the food trucks that park outside of my office on Tuesdays,’” he said. “We knew that when people walked in, they had to feel like they were getting something completely different.”

Brooks seems to have accomplished what he set out to do. After shuttering for 15 months during the COVID-19 pandemic, the market reopened in July 2021 to record-breaking attendance, and today, the 6,000 to 10,000 people who come through the gates each Sunday are treated to the offerings of between 50 and 60 vendors whose food reflects the vast diversity of L.A.’s many immigrant communities. There’s shatteringly crisp, spice-coated Korean fried chicken from Chimmelier; an intimidatingly tentacled pulpo al pastor from Evil Cooks; Hawaiian-inspired treats from Lei’d Cookies (tagline: “cookies so good you’ll feel like you just got lei’d”).

The produce market’s parking lot has room for more booths, and Brooks says the number of applications from prospective new vendors has steadily increased since the pandemic. But he’s hesitant to grow too big: “No one here is raking in cash,” he said. “We add vendors in a way that feels sustainable. Even one vendor might make the difference between another one being profitable or not.”

‘We knew that when people walked in, they had to feel like they were getting something completely different.’

— Zach Brooks

Vendors pay between $150 and $350 each week for their stall and set their own food prices; Smorgasburg does not take a cut of their sales. Though the team is tight-lipped about finances and declined to disclose revenue figures, they do say that the market earns much of its money through its perennially crowded in-house beer garden, run by Fernando Lopez of Guelaguetza and I Love Micheladas, as well as events with brands and community partners such as DineLA, the L.A. Phil and San Pellegrino. There are no leases; vendors are free to leave if they so choose.

Brooks estimates he receives 100 applications a month from people hoping to land a spot at Smorgasburg. He looks for a mixture of passion, business savvy and, of course, great food. It helps if dishes have visual appeal for social media, but it isn’t a requirement; Brooks regularly features vendors on Smorgasburg’s social media channels and has hosted workshops with platforms such as TikTok to help teach participants how to promote themselves.

As with any relationship, timing is key — if the food a prospective vendor wants to serve threatens to cannibalize business from someone already on the roster, chances are they won’t get a spot. But if, say, a very popular ice cream vendor has gone on to open their own place (as was the case with Wanderlust Creamery), Brooks might initiate a weeks-long event such as Ice Cream Alley in part to find a worthy successor (enter Moom Ma’am).

Brooks is emphatic that Smorgasburg does business in a way that is tipped in favor of the vendors. He disdains the arrangements typically offered at food festivals, where organizers take a significant cut of a chef’s sales or expect them to give away their food in exchange for the exposure.

“We can make the amount of money we need to be a successful company without gouging our people,” he said.

This chef-first MO is mildly irritating to his corporate overlords.

“If Zach has an Achilles’ heel, it’s that he’s always taking the vendor’s side,” Demby said. “We have way more people coming now, we could charge more rent, but he says things like, ‘These guys are important to the soul of the market, and if we raise prices, they might leave.’”

Above all, Brooks demands commitment — participants must be at the booth every week, rain or shine — and cautions them that it takes time to build a loyal following, just as it did for the market itself. “Vendors know that this is a partnership — we do a lot for them, and we expect them to respect what we’ve built because it will ultimately help them be successful.”

The tough love belies Brooks’ sharp, self-deprecating sense of humor and the obvious joy he takes at being a cheerleader for his vendors. During the week, between scheduling tastings and scouting for new talent (the market adds new names on a rolling basis), Brooks checks in on his roster of vendors, many of whom are hustling at other pop-ups or festivals, or running their own restaurants. On market days, he’s on-site at 6 a.m., directing load-ins and greeting staff.

‘We can make the amount of money we need to be a successful company without gouging our people.’

He nearly tears up while recounting the origin story of the now-ubiquitous Tacos 1986: “People think they just popped up, but no, what separates those guys is how hard they work. They are killing themselves! They say ‘no’ to nothing to prove that they can be successful at the scale they want.”

Whatever his vendors’ hopes may be, Brooks, as well as Demby and Butler, say they are open to new locations for a potential second market on Saturday, but nothing so far has stuck. “We want Sundays downtown to remain our flagship, and we won’t do anything to dilute that,” Demby said.

For his part, Brooks is happy to remain the man on the ground, walkie-talkie attached to his hip. “Getting into Smorgasburg does have the power to change small business’ lives,” he said. “And if you distill down the process of getting in, yes, that process ends with me. But it’s not really that simple,” he insisted.

“This market is a community, and every single person here got in through a combination of a bunch of different factors, and each vendor has their own story about how that happened,” he said.

As if to prove his point, the walkie-talkie begins to cackle, and Brooks sets his burrito down, heading toward a table where a glass has broken on the asphalt, a minor menace that nonetheless demands his attention. He walks briskly, shaking hands and greeting regulars along the way, before disappearing into the growing crowd.

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Christina House is a staff photojournalist with the Los Angeles Times. She officially joined the visual journalism team in 2017 after 10 years as a freelance photographer. House grew up in Long Beach and is a graduate of Cal State Fullerton. Her love for photography started when she visited the Philippines, her mother’s native country, at age 7. That unforgettable experience inspired her to pick up a camera. House won the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography and the 2022 Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award for Domestic Photography for “Hollywood’s Finest,” an intimate look into the life of a pregnant 22-year-old woman living on the street. She received the 2021 Cliff Edom New America Award and was honored in the portrait series category for her work on “Game Changers: A Celebration of Women in Sports” from the 2021 National Press Photographers Assn.’s Best of Photojournalism awards.

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Election Updates: Trump rallies in Las Vegas.

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Kellen Browning

There was an expectation that at his rally today in Las Vegas Donald Trump might make an endorsement in Nevada’s Republican Senate primary, which is on Tuesday. But although he made a reference from the stage to Sam Brown, the race’s front-runner, Trump ultimately did not endorse a candidate.

Michael Gold

In his first rally since he was found guilty in his trial in Manhattan, Donald Trump has repeated his debunked claims of voter fraud in 2020 and sown doubts about the outcome in November. “The only way they can beat us is to cheat,” he said of Democrats.

Jess Bidgood

Trump is onstage in Las Vegas, where, according to my weather app, it’s 99 degrees. A woman in the crowed had collapsed, apparently overcome by the heat. The rallygoers around her yelled for a medic, who quickly arrived as someone sprayed her with water. Moments before, Trump claimed from the stage that it was 110 degrees, but it doesn’t feel like it.

At his rally in Las Vegas, Trump is expected to announce that, if elected, he will ask Congress to eliminate all tax on tips for restaurant and hospitality workers. Those employees make up a major block in the Las Vegas metro area, and their industry was hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, onstage in Las Vegas at Trump’s first rally since his conviction in Manhattan, denounced the news media and Democrats for referring to Trump as a “convicted felon,” and then compared him to Jesus. “The man that I worship is also a convicted felon,” she said.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia just took the stage at Donald Trump’s rally in Las Vegas. Her criticisms of Trump’s trial in Manhattan and the Biden administration have at least three times prompted the crowd to start chanting a profane word. Her response: “You all might be my new favorite place to visit.”

Ahead of Donald Trump’s rally in Las Vegas, his campaign formally announced a new name for its Latino outreach effort : “Latino Americans for Trump.” Nevada has a large Hispanic population, and polls show Mr. Trump growing his support among Latino voters in the state.

Reporting from Las Vegas

In Las Vegas, Trump appeals to local workers and avoids talk of his conviction.

Former President Donald J. Trump stood in blazing heat in a Las Vegas park on Sunday and directly appealed to working-class voters by promising to eliminate taxes on tips for hospitality workers.

But beyond that proposal, little at Mr. Trump’s campaign rally suggested that his new status as a felon had changed his message. And when Mr. Trump’s teleprompter apparently stopped working, his speech — which his campaign advisers had billed as focused on issues of local concern to Nevada voters — devolved into familiar stories and riffs.

“I got no teleprompters, and I haven’t from the beginning,” Mr. Trump said after speaking for roughly 15 minutes, though his speech included excerpts from prepared remarks that his campaign had provided to reporters. “That probably means we’ll make a better speech now.”

Mr. Trump repeatedly voiced his frustration with the lack of a teleprompter, even though he has often boasted of his ability to give long speeches without one.

His remarks, which lasted roughly an hour, felt unfocused as he cycled through well-worn territory, railing against electric vehicles, immigration, the four criminal cases brought against him and President Biden’s physical and mental condition.

Once again, Mr. Trump broadly depicted migrants crossing the border illegally as violent criminals or mentally ill people, and then recited “The Snake,” a standby poem he has used since 2016 to expound on the threat that he believes undocumented immigrants pose to the country.

He continued to revive his unfounded claims of fraud in the 2020 election. And he baselessly insisted Democrats would try to cheat in November, sowing doubt about the general election months before a single vote has been cast.

“Don’t let them cheat,” he told the crowd in Nevada. “You watch that vote and watch it all the way.”

Mr. Trump again praised the mob of his supporters who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, calling them “J6 warriors,” suggesting they had legitimate reasons to try to stop Congress from certifying the presidential election and saying that they had somehow been “set up” that day.

“They were warriors, but they’re really, more than anything else, they’re victims of what happened,” Mr. Trump said. “All they were doing were protesting a rigged election.”

Mr. Trump said next to nothing about his recent conviction on 34 felony charges in Manhattan, but he lamented the four times he was indicted last year as a “disgrace.” Still, a number of people at the rally wore shirts reading “I’m voting for the convicted felon.”

Much as he did at a town-hall-style forum last week in Phoenix, Mr. Trump spoke at length about immigration, saying that Mr. Biden’s border policies constituted an “all-out war” on Black and Hispanic Americans.

Mr. Trump again criticized Mr. Biden’s recent executive order meant to deter illegal crossings at the U.S. border with Mexico, calling it “weak,” “ineffective” and garbage, though he used an expletive.

In response, the crowd began chanting the expletive, as his supporters did in Arizona when he used the same description. “This word seems to be catching on a little bit,” Mr. Trump said approvingly. (When Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, Republican of Georgia, spoke before Mr. Trump took the stage, her remarks prompted three identical chants.)

At the rally in Las Vegas on Sunday, the Trump campaign formally announced its Latino outreach effort, known as Latino Americans for Trump , and a number of Hispanic Americans spoke before Mr. Trump did.

Nevada has a large Hispanic population, and polls show that Mr. Trump’s support among the state’s working-class and Latino voters is increasing. His campaign is trying to capitalize on dissatisfaction among those groups with Mr. Biden’s handling of the economy.

Linda Fornos, a Las Vegas resident who came to the United States from Nicaragua, said that she voted for Mr. Biden in 2020 but that she was disappointed with his administration. “For many years, I believed in the promises of the Democrats for more opportunities for the Latino community,” she said.

Mr. Trump’s pledge to eliminate taxes on tips for restaurant and hospitality workers was a direct appeal to that group, a significant force in the Las Vegas area. “When I get into office, we are going to not charge taxes on tips,” he said.

After the rally, the Culinary Workers Union, a key part of the Democratic coalition in the state, attacked Mr. Trump’s proposal as hollow.

“Relief is definitely needed for tip earners, but Nevada workers are smart enough to know the difference between real solutions and wild campaign promises from a convicted felon,” Ted Pappageorge, the secretary-treasurer of the union, which has 60,000 members, said in a statement.

Mr. Trump’s rally in Nevada, a key battleground state, concluded a multiple-day Western swing that started on Thursday with a forum in Phoenix hosted by the conservative group Turning Point Action.

As record-high temperatures hit Phoenix, at least 11 people at that indoor event were taken to the hospital to be treated for heat exhaustion. The Trump campaign took steps to avoid similar issues in Las Vegas, where the heat was less severe but where the rally was held outside. At least six people on Sunday were taken from the event to the hospital, according to the Clark County Fire Department.

After his speech in Phoenix, Mr. Trump attended three fund-raisers in California and one in Las Vegas. Chris LaCivita, one of Mr. Trump’s two campaign managers, said that the campaign had raised about $27.5 million across the four events, a figure that cannot be independently verified until campaign filings are made public in the coming months.

Tester and Sheehy attack — and agree — in first debate of Montana’s Senate race.

Senator Jon Tester, Democrat of Montana, and Tim Sheehy, his Republican opponent in the state’s U.S. Senate race this year, faced off on Sunday in a debate that served as the opening bell for a high-profile contest that could determine control of the chamber.

Mr. Tester, a third-term incumbent, and Mr. Sheehy, a business owner and former Navy SEAL, alternated between agreeing and attacking each other, as the hourlong debate ping-ponged between national issues like the border crisis and local priorities like Montana’s meatpacking industry.

Running for his fourth term in a deep-red state, Mr. Tester demonstrated why he has been such a difficult target for Republicans. He was quick to distance himself from President Biden, who is unpopular among Montanans, and repeatedly emphasized his bipartisan reputation. He said he had broken with Mr. Biden’s administration on immigration and energy, positioning himself as a proponent of fossil fuel use and calling some of Mr. Biden’s energy regulations “unacceptable.”

“The bottom line is: He doesn’t listen to me enough,” Mr. Tester said of Mr. Biden. “He needs to.”

Mr. Sheehy laid out a vision of a nation on the brink, and he did his best to tie Mr. Tester to it. Mr. Sheehy repeatedly took aim at the crisis on the U.S.-Mexico border, an issue that Republicans have pushed to the forefront, as they accuse their opponents of encouraging a flood of illegal migration into the country. And he denounced what he said were lowered standards in the workplace and the military, criticizing diversity initiatives and an emphasis on higher education over blue-collar jobs.

“We’ve seen runaway spending,” Mr. Sheehy said. “We’ve seen an executive branch of government that’s running out of control. We see a wide-open southern border, record-high interest rates, record-high inflation. And Jon Tester supported Biden’s agenda 95 percent of the time.”

The race in Montana is expected to be one of the most competitive in an election cycle that has Democrats playing defense as Republicans try to regain the Senate. Mr. Tester’s campaign has a significant financial advantage over Mr. Sheehy’s, but the few polls of the race have shown the two men essentially tied.

Sunday’s debate, hosted by the Montana Broadcasters Association and the Greater Montana Foundation, gave voters an early opportunity to see the candidates battle each other. But on many issues, they were quick to find common ground. Mr. Tester and Mr. Sheehy agreed on support for Israel, greater assistance for mental health services and a need to be tougher on meatpacking conglomerates.

“We agree on more than we disagree,” Mr. Sheehy said in response to a question about political polarization.

Still, areas of sharp contrast did not go unnoticed.

Mr. Tester, a third-generation farmer from Montana, took aim at the surge of wealthy out-of-state transplants , who have driven up housing prices. He hit Mr. Sheehy, who grew up in Minnesota and moved to Montana a decade ago, on his background.

“We’ve had a lot of folks move into this state, a lot of folks with thick wallets,” he said. “On the housing front, Tim Sheehy’s not the solution — he’s part of the problem.”

Mr. Sheehy, who owns an aerial firefighting company and a stake in a cattle ranch, argued that he had done plenty to help Montanans, including by creating jobs.

“If you’re not from here, Jon Tester doesn’t think your voice matters, apparently,” he said.

Mr. Tester also attacked Mr. Sheehy for saying he would have voted against a bill that provided aid to Ukraine and Taiwan. And Mr. Tester was perhaps at his most animated on abortion, after Mr. Sheehy argued that voters did not want “elective abortions up to and including the moment of birth.”

“Tim, this is too important of an issue to play politics with,” Mr. Tester replied. “For you to say they’re killing babies at 40 weeks is total BS.”

Mr. Sheehy hit Mr. Tester for being a major recipient of lobbyist donations and argued that he had his chance to push for improvements in areas like health care for veterans and had come up short.

“We cannot keep sending the same politicians to Washington over and over and over again,” Mr. Sheehy said.

Maggie Astor

Trump and Biden surrogates go toe-to-toe on the Sunday shows.

After two news-filled weeks in American politics — with former President Donald J. Trump convicted of 34 felonies , and President Biden issuing the most restrictive border policy of any modern Democrat — surrogates for the two campaigns flooded the morning news shows on Sunday to promote their candidates.

Republicans defended Mr. Trump against what they insisted was an unfair trial in New York. And discussion of Mr. Biden’s executive order resembled a fun-house mirror, with Republicans criticizing a policy they had backed under Mr. Trump and Democrats backing one they had condemned.

Noem recommended a woman as Trump’s running mate — and again defended killing her dog.

Gov. Kristi Noem of South Dakota, who was campaigning for Mr. Trump in Wisconsin, said it “would be beneficial” for him to choose a woman as his running mate. His campaign’s shortlist, according to people briefed on the process , consists of seven men and only one woman, Representative Elise Stefanik of New York.

“All the polls tell him in these swing states that a woman on the ticket helps him win,” Ms. Noem said on CNN. She added, “I have spent the majority of my time here in Wisconsin talking to women and talking to those people that are independent and on the fringe, and they’re leaning towards Donald Trump, but they also want to know that their perspective is going to be at the table when decisions are made.”

Ms. Noem was once seen as a potential running mate herself, but her stock fell when she published a book in which she described shooting her 14-month-old dog , Cricket, after it disrupted a hunt and killed a neighbor’s chickens. She defended herself again on Sunday, saying she had “protected my children from a vicious animal.”

Abbott denounced Biden’s executive order …

Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas, a Republican who has sought to set his own border policies , condemned the executive order Mr. Biden issued last week to close the border to asylum seekers when crossings surge — a measure similar to one Mr. Trump tried to enact in 2018.

“What Biden has done is not doing anything to actually secure the border,” Mr. Abbott said on Fox News, arguing that the restrictions were not being sufficiently enforced.

He then made a questionable claim that — because Mr. Biden’s executive order closes the border to asylum seekers only when illegal crossings reach a seven-day daily average of 2,500, which they have regularly done — Mr. Biden was “actually authorizing more people to cross the border illegally.”

… while Coons praised it.

Senator Chris Coons, a Delaware Democrat and co-chairman of Mr. Biden’s re-election campaign, opposed asylum restrictions when Mr. Trump enacted them. But on Sunday, he defended Mr. Biden’s similar restrictions because, he said, their motivations were different.

“There’s a stark difference in the values that President Biden and former President Trump bring to trying to address the issue of border security and immigration,” Mr. Coons said on CBS’s “Face the Nation,” noting Mr. Trump’s ban on people entering the United States from several majority-Muslim countries and his separation of children from their parents, as well as his opposition to a bipartisan border-security deal that Mr. Biden supported.

“Former President Trump actually wants a problem to solve through his election rather than a solution that a bipartisan group of senators stood behind,” he said. “President Biden is moving ahead with forceful leadership at securing our border. President Trump is simply making a political issue of this.”

Whitmer said contraception was “very much at risk” under Republicans.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, a Democrat, dismissed many Republicans’ assertions that they supported unfettered access to contraception.

“When the U.S. Senate puts forth policy to ensure that they have an opportunity to enshrine access to contraception, and Republicans vote against it and kill that bill, it is very much at risk here in this moment,” she said on CNN, referring to legislation that Republicans blocked last week . “I think that what we’re seeing out of the Republicans, saying that they want to protect this, is disingenuous at best and an outright lie at worst.”

In response to a question about the trial of Mr. Biden’s son Hunter, she praised the president for affirming that he would accept the verdict and would not pardon his son.

“There is a stark choice in front of us between a president who respects the rule of law and a former president who is a convicted felon, who wants to use the implements of government to go after his enemies,” she said.

Cotton said Biden wasn’t supporting Israel and Ukraine enough.

Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas, who is on the Trump campaign’s list of possible running mates, said on “Fox News Sunday” that Mr. Biden wasn’t sending enough aid to Ukraine, a claim that ignored the fact that his fellow Republicans for months blocked aid Mr. Biden had supported.

Mr. Cotton also accused the president of insufficiently backing Israel. Mr. Biden, while increasingly criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza, has supplied billions of dollars worth of weapons to support them, alienating opponents of the war whom Mr. Cotton said the president was “catering to.”

Vance recast Trump as a champion of veterans.

Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, another possible running mate to Mr. Trump, criticized Mr. Biden for his trip to Normandy to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and for an ad from his campaign that featured veterans denouncing Mr. Trump.

“Joe Biden is trying to cover himself in the glory of the Greatest Generation, despite trying to destroy everything that they fought for,” Mr. Vance said on Fox News. “So he’s made up these ridiculous accusations that Donald Trump doesn’t respect veterans.”

Jazmine Ulloa

Reporting from Detroit and Ann Arbor, Mich.

‘Cheaters don’t like getting caught’: Harris blasts Trump in Michigan.

In one of her first campaign appearances since former President Donald J. Trump was convicted of falsifying business records, Vice President Kamala Harris sharply criticized him on Saturday as a “cheater” who believes himself above the law and argued that he should be disqualified for the presidency.

Ms. Harris, who headlined a state Democratic Party dinner in downtown Detroit, rebuffed Mr. Trump’s false claims that his trial, like the 2020 presidential election, was “rigged” and defended the judicial process behind his felony conviction.

“Simply put, Donald Trump thinks he is above the law,” she said. “This should be disqualifying for anyone who wants to be president of the United States.”

The speech on Saturday evening capped a day of campaigning across Michigan, a crucial battleground state. Ms. Harris was accompanied by the actress Octavia Spencer, attending a fund-raiser in Ann Arbor and stopping at a Black-owned bookstore in Ypsilanti.

In Detroit, the vice president opened her speech with remarks about the war in Gaza. As she tried to describe the Biden administration’s monthslong efforts to negotiate a cease-fire deal, a protester stood up and shouted at her and was quickly removed from the ballroom. Ms. Harris’s response was stern: “I value and respect your voice, but I’m speaking right now.”

She then continued her speech. “We have been working every day to bring an end to this conflict in a way that ensures Israel is secure, brings home all hostages, ends ongoing suffering for Palestinian people and ensures that Palestinians can enjoy their right to self-determination, dignity and freedom,” she said. “As President Biden said last week, it is time for this war to end.”

Turning to the election, Ms. Harris, the former top prosecutor of California, accused Mr. Trump of attacking “the foundations of our justice system.” She said that the former president was convicted by a jury of 12 Americans who were selected in part by his defense team, and that his lawyers had a chance to present their side of the evidence.

“You know why he complains? Because the reality is cheaters don’t like getting caught,” she said.

A spokeswoman for the Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The event took place in a key swing state with heightened stakes. President Biden won Michigan’s primary in February, 81 percent to 13 percent, prevailing over a movement that urged Democrats to vote “uncommitted” on the ballot in protest of his support for Israel. But more than 100,000 voters took that stance against him, among them progressives, young people and many in the state’s large and politically active Arab American community. Mr. Biden’s campaign has also been seeking to shore up its support among Black voters in cities like Detroit.

Mr. Trump won Michigan by nearly 11,000 votes in 2016 , and lost it to Mr. Biden by more than 150,000 votes in his 2020 re-election bid. Mr. Trump focused on the voting in Michigan in his efforts to subvert the 2020 election.

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