Hashomer 1, Tel Aviv

Not only is the Carmel Market a terrific place for the best produce, fish, meat, bread, cheese and tchochkes, it is also a spectacular spot for a delicious lunch. My husband and I sampled a few of those great spots and frankly, we cannot decide which is our favorite. They are all wonderful, serve freshly prepared and delicious food, and are full of charm and character.

If I HAD to choose, Hashomer 1 and Bunny Chow would be my favorites.

The first time that we visited Hashomer was at about 5pm, they close at 6 pm, but things were still humming. Mind you, this is not a restaurant but a stand with about 10 stools attached to it and a kitchen in the middle. They also have a few tables and chairs set up on the pedestrian only street adjacent to the Carmel Market.

The menu is quite varied, given the fact that their kitchen is so small.

They specialize in grilled meats and fresh salads.

Our sandwiches being assembled.

Iraqi beef kebab, burnt eggplant and parsley

Tripoli - grilled chicken breast, chirchi spread, pickled lemon

Mix chicken grill "Jerusalem style" served in half a loaf of white bread, my husband's favorite.

My wonderful lemon schnitzel with coriander. If I could, I would write a song about it, it was that delicious.

And I came for it another day. This sandwich was marvelous, not only was the schnitzel perfect, the sauce superb, but the fresh challah took it all to another level. I fell in love with this, one would think, simple sandwich.

I watched the chef masterfully prepare sauces by adding dashes of spices, herbs, and chunks of vegetables. Although tiny, this stand is no different than a fully functioning restaurant.

I highly recommend this wonderful place.

Hashomer 1 street,
Tel Aviv

Open daily from 9am - 6pm
Friday they close one hour before Shabbat
Closed Saturday

Joanna

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