In Netanya, you can enjoy various culinary excursions where you'll be invited to visit a local family, savor national dishes, and get acquainted with the country's culture.
By the way, experienced travelers often advise tourists who want to save on food to dine at places serving local cuisine. National dishes are often slightly more affordable than dishes in European-style restaurants and establishments.
In Netanya, you can also experience kosher food. But don't be surprised if you're not allowed to order both meat and dairy-based dishes simultaneously or if you can't have cream in your coffee or butter with your bread – it's simply not done.
In Netanya, you should definitely try hummus – a dish made from chickpea paste, garlic, onions, and spices, or tahini – a puree made from sesame, onions, and tomatoes. Hummus is usually served on a plate with a hollow in the center where they put pine nuts. It's drizzled with olive oil and garnished with finely chopped parsley or red paprika. To enjoy it, tear off a piece of pita bread, scoop up some hummus, and savor it.
Chickpeas are also used in more complex national dishes. For example, in falafel, which is made from fried balls of chickpea puree and is served in pita bread with hummus. Stuffed pastries called burekas with fillings like cheese, spinach, and potatoes are also popular. Among fast food options in Netanya, lamb shawarma is a favorite.
The hallmark of Netanya's seafood restaurants is excellent marine cuisine. Try marinated tuna or "St. Peter's fish" grilled to perfection.
Popular desserts include nut cookies, baklava, caramel pudding, and candied fruits – traditional treats from Israeli cuisine.
Don't miss the chance to taste young wines produced in Israel. And if you're a coffee lover, try the local high-quality coffee.
