Japon

Japon at the Setai, Tel Aviv: a high-end kosher date spot in Old Jaffa with a sea view

Japon is one of the best kosher spots for a date in Israel, and it works just as well for a family dinner. It sits inside the Setai Tel Aviv, a beautiful historic hotel in Old Jaffa, so the setting alone does half the work. I have been a few times, and it has never let me down. The concept is a high-end mix of Japanese and grill: a large variety of sushi, fresh fish, and good grilled meat, all plated with real care. On my visits the sushi board came out looking like a piece of art, a long slate of different rolls, and the seared tuna and the tuna tartare were both excellent, clean and fresh. There is a proper grill side too, so if you are in the mood for meat rather than fish, the steak delivers. The setting is the reason to plan around the season. In summer the hotel opens a lovely terrace where you can eat outside with a full sea view and watch the sunset over Jaffa. That is the version to aim for, it is genuinely special. In winter the restaurant moves inside, and the room is comfortable and well insulated, so it is still a lovely evening, just without the open-air view. This is high-end dining in one of the most beautiful old buildings in the city, so set your expectations, and your budget, accordingly. Figure around 300 shekels per person and up. The atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried rather than stiff, which is exactly what you want on a date. Service has been pretty good every time, with warm, friendly waiters. I would definitely make a reservation before you go. Bottom line: for a romantic dinner or a special family evening, Japon at the Setai is one of my top kosher recommendations in Tel Aviv. Go in summer, ask for the terrace, order the sushi and the tuna, and time it for sunset.