Carmel Market usually brings to mind hummus joints, falafel and shawarma eaten standing beside the stalls while shopping. But there is another side to the market: hidden among its alleys are excellent meat restaurants that attract devoted carnivores. Here are three places considered essential stops for meat lovers in Israel.
M25
If Carmel Market had to choose an official representative for meat, it would probably be M25. The restaurant sits in the heart of the market’s butchers’ alley, so the walk there is not recommended for vegetarians or vegans. Its philosophy is clear from the moment you arrive: meat comes first. In fact, it is almost entirely about meat, without unnecessary decoration.
- What to eat: Meat. Very little else needs to be said. The restaurant serves selected dishes including shawarma, calf brain and corned beef, alongside daily specials. Be warned: if your group includes a vegetarian or vegan who usually says, “I can always find something to eat,” this may be the exception.
- Price range: 60-90 ₪.
- Good to know: Despite its market setting and atmosphere, this is a full restaurant. The line outside shows just how popular it is, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
- Address: 30 Simtat HaCarmel, Carmel Market.
- Opening hours: Monday-Saturday, 12:00-23:00.
- Website: m25meat.co.il
Smoked Kitchen
The story here is a little different. From the outside, it may look like another friendly meat stall, but come closer and you will find a place devoted entirely to smoked meat – a shrine for carnivores. This small, distinctive restaurant brought slow-smoked meat directly into the heart of Carmel Market. Do not mistake it for another stall: this is a smokehouse.
- What to eat: Carefully prepared smoked-meat sandwiches served street-food style.
- Price range: 50-70 ₪.
- Good to know: This is not an ordinary shawarma stall. Because the meat is slowly smoked, it is worth taking your order to the nearby park and eating at an unhurried pace. Alternatively, you can find a seat at the counter for a little calm while still feeling the market’s energy.
- Address: 46 HaCarmel Street, Carmel Market.
- Opening hours: Monday-Friday, 10:00 until the market closes.
- Website: smoked.kitchen
Holy Cow
Sometimes all you want is a good burger. On Carmel Market’s main avenue, a small spot has found the right balance between street food and a chef-made burger. Chef Tom Aviv’s Holy Cow combines the market’s energy with quality meat you will not find at every stall.
- What to eat: The classic smash burger, the full “Holy Burger” and the indulgent “Extra Holy” version.
- Price range: 30-50 ₪, surprisingly accessible.
- Good to know: The restaurant is kosher, an important detail that cannot be taken for granted among the market area’s leading meat restaurants.
- Address: 11 HaCarmel Street, Carmel Market.
- Opening hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11:00-17:00 | Friday, 11:00 until the start of Shabbat.
- Instagram: holycow.tlv
