HaKosem
Experience Tel Aviv's best Middle Eastern food at this highly-rated ($) gem. Enjoy enormous portions and a vibrant atmosphere. Discover why it's a local favorite.
Shawarma, falafel & hummus plates are the draw at this busy restaurant in a compact space.
About HaKosem
This popular Tel Aviv eatery offers an authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine with a distinct Israeli flair. Diners consistently praise the generous portion sizes, ensuring you won't leave hungry. The atmosphere is described as vibrant and welcoming, complemented by exceptional staff who contribute to a truly positive dining experience. With an impressive 4.5/5 rating, it's a top choice for those seeking expertly crafted shawarma, falafel, and other classic dishes. Located centrally, this spot is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor delicious and well-executed flavors that reflect the heart of Israeli food culture.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Budget-friendly)
Budget-friendly dining ($) - Affordable options for everyday dining
Meal Time (dinner)
This restaurant primarily serves dinner. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Outdoor)
Al fresco dining with outdoor seating
Dining Style (Casual)
Walk-in friendly. No reservations needed. Casual dining experience.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Outdoor Seating, Beer, Family Friendly, Groups Welcome
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Why Travelers Love HaKosem
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
Come when hungry, the food portion sizes are enormous. The vibe is really great and the staff are amazing. Would highly recommend if in the mood for a shawarma, felafel and you find yourself in central Tel Aviv ✨ The creator of this concept has truly mastered Middle Eastern cuisine, adding that unique Israeli touch that makes all the difference. 👏 A big bravo for such an achievement! 🍴 In my opinion, this is simply the best restaurant in Israel—refined, thoughtful, and brilliantly executed. 💡 And if the idea of opening another branch ever comes up, I’d be more than open for business. Henri Keesje Atmosphere: No indoor or closed area in a season that is fairly hot and tables are unsanitized attracts flies and bad odder from full of waste in bins on tables and the dirty dishes in open area. Service: fast bur when you run that fast there will be mistakes , I paid for 1 shawarma in lafa and 1 falafel in pitta bread and another pitta shawarma sapratly yet because of the queue and fast pace ordered he forgot to make the falafel until I mentioned and showed him the ticket. Sometime a bit balance in speed and efficiency is what needed not just speed Service. Food: Shawarma was fantastic. Meat was flavour correctly and meat cooked just right. Falafel was seemed a bit burnt out on the surface but still delicious inside once you pass that burnt darker crisp. Salads and sauces were just right in both dishes .
Find the Restaurant
Where to Find Them
Opening Hours
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Recent Reviews
Samuel G.
November 12, 2025
Come when hungry, the food portion sizes are enormous. The vibe is really great and the staff are amazing. Would highly recommend if in the mood for a shawarma, felafel and you find yourself in central Tel Aviv
Henri K.
September 10, 2025
✨ The creator of this concept has truly mastered Middle Eastern cuisine, adding that unique Israeli touch that makes all the difference. 👏 A big bravo for such an achievement! 🍴 In my opinion, this is simply the best restaurant in Israel—refined, thoughtful, and brilliantly executed. 💡 And if the idea of opening another branch ever comes up, I’d be more than open for business. Henri Keesje
Yuval M.
October 8, 2025
Atmosphere: No indoor or closed area in a season that is fairly hot and tables are unsanitized attracts flies and bad odder from full of waste in bins on tables and the dirty dishes in open area. Service: fast bur when you run that fast there will be mistakes , I paid for 1 shawarma in lafa and 1 falafel in pitta bread and another pitta shawarma sapratly yet because of the queue and fast pace ordered he forgot to make the falafel until I mentioned and showed him the ticket. Sometime a bit balance in speed and efficiency is what needed not just speed Service. Food: Shawarma was fantastic. Meat was flavour correctly and meat cooked just right. Falafel was seemed a bit burnt out on the surface but still delicious inside once you pass that burnt darker crisp. Salads and sauces were just right in both dishes .
Lauren
August 15, 2025
I love eating here and deliberately wanted to make this restaurant my first stop for shawarma once I landed in TLV back in my first-ever visit to Israel. Very easy service where they handle the long lines efficiently and are helpful behind the counter. Even better quality food and at decent prices. It's nice to sit outside to eat when it's not so hot out.
Kiariladyboss
August 24, 2023
OMGGG🤤🤤🤤 Hands down to one of the best place for falafel pita and hummus in Tel Aviv. There was a short line when we got there around 2pm on a Tuesday. They were passing free falafel as we were waiting. For a plate of hummus, 2 half pita and a coke we only spent 80 ILS, really good prices in my opinion. I recommend it to anyone
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make HaKosem special
Outdoor Seating
Beer
Family Friendly
Groups Welcome
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Payment Options
Parking
Accessibility
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Transportation Tips
Tel Aviv has an excellent public transportation system including buses and a light rail. Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available. The city is also very walkable, and bike-sharing is popular along the beachfront.
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