A café has opened in the former home of one of the longstanding bars in Tel Aviv’s Kalisher neighborhood. It occupies a highly visible location by the busy Carmelit station, yet few tourists know about it beyond those already in the know. Its sweet, pleasant balcony overlooks HaKovshim-Carmelit Park.
It is more than a café. The place attracts avant-garde artists and activists whom you may recognize from demonstrations shown on television. With a little luck, you might meet some of them.
There is a good book on every table, while artworks hang on walls decorated in a style that falls somewhere between neglected and vintage.
The owner, who declined to be photographed for the article, said the café was created as a place where people could gather and discuss the big issues of the day – and Israel has no shortage of those.
You can have a pastry with your coffee, while a changing menu is served at lunchtime. You can also check the café’s Facebook page, although it is not active. The real idea is simply to show up, start talking and have something to eat along the way.
12 HaCarmel Street. Open every day of the week.
